Full text of "Millennial Star Vol 23"

See other formats

Google

This is a digital copy of a book that was preserved for generations on library shelves before it was carefully scanned by Google as part of a project
to make the world's books discoverable online.

It has survived long enough for the copyright to expire and the book to enter the public domain. A public domain book is one that was never subject
to copyright or whose legal copyright term has expired. Whether a book is in the public domain may vary country to country. Public domain books
are our gateways to the past, representing a wealth of history, culture and knowledge that's often difficult to discover.

Marks, notations and other marginalia present in the original volume will appear in this file - a reminder of this book's long journey from the
publisher to a library and finally to you.

Usage guidelines

Google is proud to partner with libraries to digitize public domain materials and make them widely accessible. Public domain books belong to the
public and we are merely their custodians. Nevertheless, this work is expensive, so in order to keep providing this resource, we have taken steps to
prevent abuse by commercial parties, including placing technical restrictions on automated querying.

We also ask that you:

+ Make non- commercial use of the files We designed Google Book Search for use by individuals, and we request that you use these files for
personal, non-commercial purposes.

+ Refrain from automated querying Do not send automated queries of any sort to Google's system: If you are conducting research on machine
translation, optical character recognition or other areas where access to a large amount of text is helpful, please contact us. We encourage the
use of public domain materials for these purposes and may be able to help.

+ Maintain attribution The Google "watermark" you see on each file is essential for informing people about this project and helping them find
additional materials through Google Book Search. Please do not remove it.

+ Keep it legal Whatever your use, remember that you are responsible for ensuring that what you are doing is legal. Do not assume that just
because we believe a book is in the public domain for users in the United States, that the work is also in the public domain for users in other
countries. Whether a book is still in copyright varies from country to country, and we can't offer guidance on whether any specific use of
any specific book is allowed. Please do not assume that a book's appearance in Google Book Search means it can be used in any manner
anywhere in the world. Copyright infringement liability can be quite severe.

About Google Book Search

Google's mission is to organize the world's information and to make it universally accessible and useful. Google Book Search helps readers
discover the world's books while helping authors and publishers reach new audiences. You can search through the full text of this book on the web

at http : / /books . qooqle . com/

Digitized by

GoogI

Digitized by

GoogI

Digitized by

GoogI

THE

LATTER-DAT SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

VOLUME XXIII.

"Tax Lord also shall boar out of Zion, and utter his voice from Jeru-
salem ; AND THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH SHALL SHAKE ; BUT THE LORD
WILL BE THE HOPE OF HIS PEOPLE, AND THE STRENGTH OF THE CHILDREN OF
ISRAEL.''— Jock

LIVERPOOL: v
EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.

LONDON:

UTTER-DAT SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STREET, ISLINGTON.

1861.

Digitized by

BNTBBBD AT STATIONERS HALL.

Digitized by

PREFACE.

Through the Divine favour, with the aid of our brethren, we have been
enabled to bring to its termination the 23rd Volume of the Millennial Star,
trusting that our humble endeavours to benefit the Saints by the light of its
pages may prove acceptable to them.

The Star is intended not only as a vehicle for conveying present instruc-
tion to its readers, but as a source of spiritual profit to future generations
of Saints. Its yearly Volumes are so many records of events daily
transpiring in connection with the Church in these and other lands, which,
will be read with interest in days to come by thousands of Zion's Sons and
daughters yet unborn.

To that store of historic knowledge and experience thus annually accu-
mulating, the present Volume adds its humble quota.

EDITOR.

Digitized by

INDEX.

A Comparison 530

Address to the Young Sisters 419

Address to the Sisters of the Church... 277
Addresses 64, 176, 208, 240, 256, 272, 288,
320, 336, 352, 368, 384, 400, 416, 448,
480, 512, 528, 586, 602, 618, 682, 698,

730

Advice to the Saints, Especially to

those about to Emigrate 251

A Glimpse at the Condition of the Once

United States 305

A Hard Nut for the Church of England

to Crack 606

A Living Testimony 417

An Affectionate Good-Bye 228

Annual Conference, Thirty-first 363

Apostacy 241

Appeal to the Emperor of the French,

Important 220

A Sailing Sermon — Not Spiritualized 211
A Saint 468

Blessings, Obedience Bringeth... X . 619

Cheltenham, Minutes of a District
Meeting held in 532

Christianity and " Mormonism " 52, 75
89,107,113,132.

Comparison, A 503

Commercial World, Signs of Alarm in
the 69

Condition of the Once United States, A
Gl mpse at the 305

Condition of the Nations 497

Conference, Thirty-first Annual 363

Conference held in Great Salt Lake
City, Semi-Annual 770

Conference held at Tidemausholm,
Denmark, Minutes of a 603

Confrrence held in Norre Uttrup, Den-
mark, Minuies of a 638

Conference held in London, Minutes of 490

Conference held at Liverpool, Minutes
of a 763, 795

Conference held in Manchester,
Minutes of a General 305

Conference held in Norwich, Minutes
of a 449

Conference held in Nottingham,
Minutes of a 683

Conference, Minutes of the Monarch
of the Sea 475

Consequences of Rejecting the Testi-
mony of a Living Prophet 259

Constitution of Man, Design of God in
the 289, 321, 353

Contracted Views of Religionists — First
Principles 481

Contrast between the Saints and the
World 209

Correspondence —
From the Presidency 78, 100, 236, 365,
597, 646, 677.— Ship Underwriter 301,
396.— Ship Monarch of the Sea 479.
— An Englishwoman 303. — England:
Birmingham District 331, 412, 492, 522,
663.— Cheltenham do. 695.— London do.
286, 629, 823. — Manchester do. 366,
429, 664.— Newcastle do. 429.— Nor-
wich do. 45, 111, 221, 349, 378, 511,
640, 629, 743.— Nottingham do. 287,
332, 413, 461, 540, 761. — Sheffield
do. 157, 348, 443, 727, 806.— South .
do. 141, 460,582.— Southampton do. 206,

443, 823.— Bedfordshire Conference 190,
222, 567.— Dorsetshire do. 461.- -Durham
do. 631.— Essex do. 302, 582. —Hereford-
shire do. 397.— Kent do. 205, 316, 461.—
Lincolnshire do. 806, 81 6. --Liverpool do.
623, 539.-London do. 77, 332, 348, 615,
726.— Manchester do. 810.— Newcastle
do. 615.— Norwich do. 237, 349.«Not-
tingham do. 379.— Preston do. 678.—
Reading do. 462.— Sheffield do. 110. —
South do. 428.— Southampton do. 493.—
Staffordshire do. 378. — "Warwickshire do.
268, 302, 411, 776.— Wiltshire do. 444,
493, 695.— Worcestershire do. 523, 678.
-Scotland 12b, 155, 157, 237, 380, 427,
583, 615, 759, 806, 824.— Ireland 254,
679.— Wales 110, 126, 237, 286, 333,
414, 524, 584, 665, 776.— Channel Islands
190, 334.--France 140, 190, 380.-Hol-
land 759.— Scandinavia 92, 189. 269, 380,

444, 494, 525, 581, 616, 647, 711- —
Switzerland 141, 510, 524, 711, 760,

Digitized by

Google

INDEX.

807. — Australia 510.— America 29, 126,
139, 174, 175, 189, 238, 270, 317, 395,
396, 427. 478, 566, 824.— Deseret 58, 59,
155, 271, 317, 394, 477, 509, 566, 694.
Correspondents —

Adams, S. L. 302,411, 776.— An English-
woman, 302. — Andrus, M. 396, 478.—
Baxter, W. S. 78, 237, 427,806.— Barnes,
M. 190, 461.— Bertram!, L. A. 140, 190,
380.— Bentlev,R.237.— Bigler, J.G. 679.
Blackburn, E. H. Ill, 221, 349, 378,
511, 629, 743.— Bramall, W. 443, 823.—
Brown,J.286,629, 823.— Brown, J.S.287,
332, 413, 461, 540,761.— Bull, J.190, 667.
— Bvwater, G. G. 286, 333. — Campbell, R.
L.271. — Christensen, A. 92,269, 380,494,
616, 647, 711.— Clayton, W. 59, 566.—
Cliff, E. 378.— Clements, G. 694.—
Crawley, T. 254.— Dallin, W. 615.— Be
La Mare, P. 334.— Dixon, H. A. 615.—
Duncan, 268, 396.— Dunbar, W. C. 317.
—Ford, T. 510.— Gates, J. 189.— Gibson,
W. M. 317.— Gibson W. 695.— Gleason,
J. 8. 429.— Hargraves, S. 631.— Harri-
son, E. L. T. 157, 478.--Hallidav, G. 141,
460, 582.— Henriod, E. 493.— Hooper
W.H. 29, 139, 174, 270.— Hudson, H. J.
126.— Hodgert,R. 428.— Jefferies, W. 45.
Jeremy, T.E.126, 237, 414, 584,664,776.
-Jones, N. V. 189, 396.— Kelsey, W. H.
205.— King, T. O. 493.— Kimball, H. C.
477.— Kay, J. M. 366, 429, 664.— Lind-
say, J. 58-', 806, 832.— Lyman, A. M. 78,
110, 236, 365, 597, 646, 677.— Liez T.
678.— Madsen, C. A. 525.— M'Allister,
J. D. T. 566, 824.— Martindale, W. A.
238.— Mills, W. G. 332, 412, 492, 522,
663.— Needham J. 316, 461.— Owen, W.
O. 397.— Penrose, C. W. 301, 396.—
Pratt, O. 395.— Reed, G. 462.— Rhees,
C. H. 444.— Romney, G. 318.— Rees,
T. W. 524.— Ricb, C. C. 78, 110 , 236,
681, 677. -Rich, J. C. 379.— Sands, R.
615.— Scott E. 302.-Scbofield, J. 832.
— Schettler, B. H. 175, 427.— Schettlcr,
P. A. 760.— Silver, J. 222.— Smith, J.
F. 157, 348, 443, 510, 524, 711, 727,
760, 806.— Smith, J. N. 494.— Smith, J.
L. 141, 510, 524, 711, 807.— Smith, G.

. A. 58, 155.— Snow, W. S. 695.— Staines,
W. C. 1 10, 726. —Stuart, D. M. 126, 380,
427, 583, 759, 824— Spencer, C. V. 206.
— Sloan,E. L 523, 539.— Tavlor, G.J. 77,
332, 348.— Teasdale, G. 155.— Thurgood,
W. 523, 678.— Van Cott, J. 189. 444,
494.— Van der Woude, A. W. 759.—
Wallace, T. 301.— Young, B. 394, 509.

Deaths 16, 32, 144, 208, 384, 400, 512,

528, 618, 730, 810

Deaih, The Sting of. 735

Denmark, Minutes of a Conference

held in 603, 638

Determination 426

Design of God in the Constitution of
Man. 289, 321,353

Discourse by President Lyman, Synop-
sis of. 693

Dif course by President Rich, Synopsis
of „ 699

District Meeting held in Cheltenham,
Minutes of a 532

Divinity in " Moi monism," Tokens of 10,
27,42,81,338-

Division of the United States— Causes
which have Hastened it 97

Editorial —

Introductory Address — Emigration — Ar-
rivals 8. — The Duties Now Before Us —
Interesting Correspondence — Changes
and Appointments for 1861 24.— The
Duties Still Before Us — Emigration 40.
— Duties Not to be Forgotten — Presi-
dent Young's Discourse 56. — Hints to the
Saints — Notice — Arrivals — Departures
72.— A Werd of Caution 88.— On Ships
and Fares — Abstract of News from the
Conferences — Inquiry Answered — Cattle
to be Furnished from the Valley — Arrival
— Notice 104. -Importance of vhe Sacra-
ment — Abstract of News from the Con-
ferences 120. — A Contrast that will Be-
come every Year more Striking 137. —
Power of the Elders for Good or Evil —
Unvirtuous Conduct, Marriage, &c. — Ab-
stract of News from the Conferences 153
— Proneness of the People to Go Astray :
The Lord's Remedy in these Days for it
— Instructions on Excommunication of
Members — Abstract of News from the
Conferences 168.— A Gift more Valuable
and Effective than Riches — Movements of
Presidents Lyman and Rich 184. — Re-
sponsibilities and Duties of Parents — The
Circulation of the Star— Abstract of News
from the Conferences 200. — The Gospel
System: the Confidence it Bestows —
News from the United States 217. Hints
for the Emigrating Saints, and which may
also Profit those who Remain — Abstiact
of News from the Conferences 232. The
Power for Good which can be Exercised
by the Officers 249. Establishment of a
Church Printing Office — Pay as You Go,
and Keep out of Debt — Departure 264.
Unnecessary Formalities — Hints to Pre-
siding Elders — Departure — Progress of
the Work in the United States 281.
Civil War in America : its Importance as
a Warning to the Saints 297. — Admo-
nition to Progression : Example of
the Saints m Zion— Notice 313. — The
Last Ship of the Season — Arri-
val—Notice 328. — History Repeating
Itself— A Historical Parallel — Apology
345.— What the Saints must Do who
Want to Emigrate — Abstract of News

Digitized by

INDBX.

from the Conferences — Movements of
the Presidency 361. — Out-door Preach-
ing—Abstract of News from the Con-
ferences 376. — What the Saints are Capa-
ble of Doing — Arrival of Saints at
New York 392.— Prophecy and its Ful-
filment: a Striking Illustration — News
from Home 408. — Contracted Ideas —
Extremes to be Avoided 424.— Fulfilment
of Prophecy : its Disparagement by Un-
believers 440. — The Saviour and his
Apostles as Viewed by their Contempo-
raries — Abstract of News from the Con-
ferences 457. — The Past and Present
of the Church 472. — Work while
the Day Lasts 488.— Peace ! Peace !
■when there is no Peace — Arrival of Mis-
sionaries — Appointments— Notice 505. —
Ordinations : Care to , be Observed —
Abstract of News from the Conferences —
News from the Emigration 520. — Nomi-
nal Membership: More than this Re-
quired—News from Home — Abstract of
News from the Conferences — News from
the Emigration 537. — The Redemption
of Zion Dependent on the Progress made
by the Saints — Movements of the
Presidency 562. — A Dreary Picture
579. — Another Plan to Uproot the
Gospel : Success Impossible — Abstract of
News from the C nierences 594. — Peace
and War : Contrast between 1851 and
1861— Evacuation of Camp Floyd bv the
U. S. Army— News from Holland *610.
— Revelation — Abstract of News fiom
the Conferences 627. — Second Advent of
the Messiah 643. — A Dark and Troublous
Future : the Saints should be Prepared —
News from Home 659. — Decrease of Pre-
judice — Our Rapid Growth not Due to
Persecution — Abstract of News from the
Conferences 674. — Paternal Duties —
News from America 691 . — Divisions and
Revolutions which Threaten Babylon —
Norwich Conference — Channel Islands
Conference — News from Home — Move-
ments of the Presidency — Notice 706 —
Ignorance and Knowledge— Southampton
Conference 722.— The Training of the
Saints — Sheffield Conference — Abstract
of News from the Conferences — Move-
ments of the Presidency — Notice
739. — Retributive Justice: the Ene-
mies of the Church Guilty of the
^ Crimes Charged on the Saints— Notice to
Book Agents 755 —A Monthly Fast Day
—Dreadful Effects of Civil Strife— Hull
Conference 771.— Labours Before the
People in Zion : Influence of Tithing—
News from America—Abstract of News
from the Conferences 787-— Next Year's
Volumes of the Star and Journal — Ab-
stract of News from the Conferences 802.
—Disappointed Hopes of the Enemies of

Truth — News from Home — News from
Switzerland — Hews from Holland —
Movements of the Presidency 819. — A
Retrospect of the Year ~ News from
Scandinavia- -Wanted 829.

Empire, Universal 635

Emperor of the French, Important Ap-
peal to the 220

Erratum 586

Evils, Little 622

Experience .. 356

Extract of a Letter from Hon. W. H.
Hooper 29

Faith r. 731

Foreknowledge 715

Friendly Suggestions to my Young
Sisters 252

Gathering of the House of Israel,

Literal 484

General Conference held in Preston,

Minutes of a 386

Glauce at the Present and Future of

the Nations 465

Glory to God in the Highest, and on

Earth Peace, Goodwill toward Men.. 385

God, Omnipresence of. 292

God's Interest in Nations, Unbelief in 161

Good- bye, An Affectionate 208

Great Salt Lake City, Semi- Annual

Conference held in 779

Growth of the Latter-day Work 171

Happiness. Philosophy of. 187

History of Joseph Smith— 4, 21, 37, 70, 85,
102, 117, 135, 150, 165, 182, 197, 214,
229,245, 262, 279, 294, 311, 325, 344,
359. 374, 389, 405, 420, 437, 454, 470,
486, 501, 518, 533, 559, 577, 591, 607,
623, 641, 657, 672,689, 704, 720, 736,
752, 768, 816, 828.

Important Appeal to the Emperor of

the French 220

Independence of Zion 774

Information Wanted 528

Inquiries 128, 208, 272, 746, 778

Is the World Progressing 587

Kindred Spirits and Pre-existence 529

Know the Lord 434

Latter-day Work, Retrospect of the ... 196
Latter-day Work, Growth of the 171

Digitized by

INDEX.

VU.

Iabertv, True f . 225

last of Debts, Quarterly 61,600,730

lateral Gathering of *the House of

Israel 464

Inttle Evils » 622

Lave Your Religion . 147

Uverpool, Minutes of a Conference

held at .. , 763, 795

London, Minutes of Conference held in 490
Lord, Know the 434

Manchester, Minutes of a General Con-
ference held in 307

Man, Origin of. 651

Man, Pre-existence of. 702

Marriages 16, 144, 192, 250, 384, 698,
810.

Memory, Understanding and 670

Memorabilia '. 15

Minutes of a Conference held in London 490
Minutes of a Conference held in Liver-
pool 763, 795, 804

Minutes of a Conference held in Not-
tingham 683

Minutes of a Conference held in Norwich 449
Minutes of a Conference held in Den-
mark. 603,638

Minutes of a District Meeting held in

Cheltenham 532

Minutes of a General Conference held

in Manchester 307

Minutes of a General Conference held

in Preston 1 385

Minutes of the Monarch of the Sea

Conference 475

Missouri as it Was, and as it Is 811

Money List 48, 160, 224, 634, 714

Monarch of the Sea Conference,

Minutes of the 475

"Mormonism" and the "Mormons,"

Views of. 1, 17, 65, 122, 132

"Mormonism," Christianity and.. .52, 75,
89,107,113,132
" Mormonism," Tokens of Divinity in 10,
27, 42, 81, 338
" Mormonism P" What is 257

National Prejudices, Propriety of

Abandoning 337

Naion«, Condition of the 497

Nations, Glance at the Present and

Future of the 465

Nations, "Unbelief in God's Interest in 161

Necessity for Revelation 654

News from Utah 445, 460, 744, 790

News, Utah 44, 61, 93, 142

Norwich, Minutes of a Conference held

* n : 449

Nottingham Conference, Minutes of

toe 683

Nut for the Church of England to
Crack, A Hard..... 606

Obedience. .*. 498

Obedience Biingeth Blessings 612

Omnipresence of God 291

Opinions of the Press , 330, 404

Origin of Man 651

Our Relationship to God. 180

Past, Reflections on the 827

Past and Present Events, Review of... 33

Philosophy of Happiness 187

Polygamy, The Patriarchal Institutions

of 204

Practical Knowledge, Theory Super-
seded by 243

Preaching, Testifying and 718

Preaching, Views on Out-door......... 433

Pre-existence, Kindred Spirits and 5^9

Pre-existence of Man 702

Press, Opinions of the 330

Preston, Minutes of a General Con-
ference held in 386

Propriety of Abandoning National

Prejudices "... 337

Prospects of War in the West 205

Poetry —

The World's Jubilee 16. —Death of
the Righteous 32.— What are You Seek-
ing for? 48 — The Dying Wife 64.— Sun-
day School Teachers' Hymn 80. — Come
to Zion 96.— Farewell to England 112. —
Old «nd New Friends 128— To Zion 144.
Christ's Second Advent 160.— School thy
Feelings 176. — A Young Saint's Aspi-
rations 192.— Why should Zion Fear 208.
— Lines on Leaving Babylon 224. — Song
of Michael 240.— The Better Land 256.
The Land Far Away 272.— Spring 288.
—Lines on Gathering 304.— 320.— tftf
Desperandum 336. —The Saints' Patri-
otic Song 352. — Dissolution of the
American Union 368. — Ye Saints, Re-
joice 384.— Stanzas 400.— The Call of
the Priesthood 416. — Works Human and
Divine 432.— Love One Another 448. —
Zion 464.— A Hymn 480.— O America,
Mourn ! 496.— An Open Vision 512.— God
in all His Works 528.— It will All Turn
Round for the Best 544.— Bve-and-Bye
570.— Slander 586.— To Zion 602.— Lines
on the Death of a Brother 618. —The Apos-
tate's Death 634. —Truth's Sunshine 650.
—The Rocky Mountains 666. —Lines 682.
Charity 698. ^-Sympathy 714.— The Holy
Spirit 730.— Dependence on God 746.—
Lines on the Death of Elder W. M'Kay
762.— The Power of Truth 778.— The
Happy Land 794.— The Priesthood 810.
—Remembrance 826. — A Song 834.

Digitized by

Till.

INDEX.

Quarterly List of Debts 61, 600, 730

Beading 1 and Beflection 469

Beflections on the Past 827

Begeneration of the World— Failure of

Attempts to Accomplish it 667

Begeneration, Social and Moral 193

Selecting the Testimony of a Living

Prophet, Consequences of. 259

Belationship to God, Our 180

Belig'onists, Contracted Views of. 481

Bemarks by Presidents Cannon and

Lyman, made at London Conference 513
Bemarks by President Brigham Young,

October 8, 1860 49

Beport of District Meeting, Sunder-
land, March 3lst, 1861.. 285

Bestitution of All Things, The 145

Bestoration of the Gospel 555

Besurrection 734

Betrospect of the Latter-day Work 196

Bevelation, Necessity for 654

Beview of Past and Present Events .... 33
Bighteous, The Future Abode of the... 401

Sailing Sermon, A 211

Saints, Advice to the 251

Saints and the World, Contrast between 209
Salvation from Apostacy, The Gather-
ing a Means of 177

Salvation, The Gospel the Power of God

unto * 500

Satan, Withstand the Wiles of. 324

Setf-Help , 273

Semi- Annual Conference held in Great

Salt Lake City 779

Signs of Alarm in the Commercial

Wld <*9

Sisters, Friendly Suggestions to my

Young 252

Sisters of the Church, Address to the... 277

Social and Moral Begeneration 193

Spirits, Try the 747

Sting of Death, The 735

Suggestions to my Young Sisters,

Friendly 252

Summary of News and Passing Events 14,
30, 46, 62, 79, 94, 112, 127, 143, 158,
175, 191, 207, 223, 254, 239, 271, 287,
303,318,335, 349, 366, 381, 398, 415,
430, 446,463,479, 495, 512, 526, 541,
568, 585, 599, 617, 632, 64S, 665, 679,
696, 712, 728, 745, 761, 777, 792, 808,
825. 833.

Synopsis of a Discourse by President
Lyman, delivered in Copenhagen.... 700

Synopsis of a Discourse by President
Bich, delivered in Copenhagen. . 699

Synopsis of a Discourse by President
Lvman, delivered in Liverpool 571

Testifying and Preaching 718

Testimony, A Living 417

Testimony of a Living Prophet, Conse-
quences of Rejecting the...* 259

The " Amende Honourable" 814

The Future Abode of the Bighteous..,. 401
The Gathering a Means of Salvation

from Apostacv 1V7

The Gospel v. Creeds 35

The Gospel v. Creeds of Man 418

The Gospel the Power of God unto Sal-
vation 500

The Helping Hand 403

Theorv Superseded by Practical Know-
ledge 243

The Patriarchal Institutions of Poly-

gamv 204

The Bestitution of All Things 145

The Sting of Death 735

The Word of Wisdom 276

Things Worth Remembering 31, 47, 62, 95,
158, 239, 319, 367, 542, 569, 681, 697,
713.

Thirty-first Annual Conference held in

Great Salt Lake City 363, 369

Thoughts Suggested by the Passing

Year 235

Tokens of Divinitv in "Mormonism" 10,
27, 42, 81, 338

True Liberty 225

Try the Spirits—A Key to Spiritism... 747

Unbelief in God's Interest in Nations—
His Judgments yet to be Poured out 161

Understanding and Memory 670

Uuited States, Division of the 79

Universal Empire 635

Utah News... 44,61,93, 142

Utah, News from 445, 460, 744, 790

Varieties 15,32,63, 80, 95, 128, 144, 159,
175, 255, 272, 304, 320, 335, 351, 367,
382, 399. 416, 431, 447, 464, 496, 527,
543, 570, 602, 618, 633, 649, 681, 697,
713, 7*9, 777, 793, 809, 825, 834.
Views of " Mormonism " and the
" Mormons" 1, 17, 65, 122

Views of Religionists, Contracted 481

View3 on Out-door Preaching 433

Wanted 762

War in the West, Prospects of. 205

What is "Mormonism?" .257

Whv do the Saints Gather P 129

Withstand the Wiles of Satan i 324

Word of Wisdom, The* 276

World, Begeneration of the «. 667

Young Sisters, Friendly Suggestions to

my 252

Zion, Independence of. » 774

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

A no'se shall come even to the ends of the earth ; t for the Lor* hath a controversy with the nations:
he will plead with all flesh ; he will give them that are xcicked to the sw»rd t saith the Lord?'—*
Jeremiah.

Ho. 1, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, January 5. 1861. Price One Penny.

VIEWS OP " MORMONISM" AND THE « MORMONS."

VIEW I. — THE WONDER OF THE AGE.

▲ marvellous work, from earliest days foretold,

Marked where the fulness of all times comes in,
Jehorah will In htter days unfold,

And now bis recreative work begin.
Behold, again the Lord make* all things new !

And In the work his holy onea engage ;
And nations of the better time shall view

It as the wonder of this marvellous age.

"Mormonism" and the "Mormons"
have often been pronounced " ihe wonder
of the age," and looked upon as the
strangest phenomena of society that
the nineteenth century has produced
Nor is this view of * Mormonism " and
the a Mormons" as the wonder of the age
either a false or an insignificant one. It
it be a proper view, that it is a most
significant one the dullest intellect may at
a glance perceive; for, over and above
the positive weight and significance Of the
fact of " Mormonism " and the M Mor-
mons" being the wonder of the age, that
fact receives immense additional weight
and significance from the very character
of the age itself.

The nineteenth century is the most
marvellous period in the world's history ;
anA Its events and surroundings and
changes and revolutions and enterprises
and developments most certainly- place it
far above all other ages as the marvellous
age—the parent of wonders. In fact it
seems as though alt the wondefrfjil birth*

and growths and the marvels of every
age had been brought together by the
presiding angels of the various dispensa-
tions of the world's probation, and repro-
duced in thin a^e. — fhat all dispensations,
with their mnre belongings and charac-
ter^ cs, both >(ood and bad, have in the
economy of (lori heen brought into one,
and are fat»t becoming embodied, and
growing into a grand, final, and universal
dispensatio n which wnl embrace all ages
and consummate all things.

It is not our object to particularly lift
up the nineteenth cen»ur\ as the wonder-
ful age, nor u> brin* out here the open-
ing of the new ano* lufer-day Dispen-
sation; but rut her at the beginning tf
these views to bring out * Mormonism "
and the ** M« Tenons " a» he wonder of the
age. Yet, at our very Marling into the
opening field, the character of the age
itself naturally rn» » heti re us, and the
weight and significance hat it gives to
our views appear ion gr at and pertinent
not to be noticed 'by a passing glance;
for be it strongly marked and observed
that whatever »rmH prove to be really the
wonder of the awe will receive the cul-
minating force aii«i meaning of "the age,
and from its i numerable voices of won-
ders there will come a iir • «d and univer-
sal testimony «h„t ibe very age itself has
received its being, that it might taring

Digitized by

2 VIEWS OF "HORMONISll" AND THE " HORMON8."

forth, under the Divine movings of the
Baler of all times, his marvellous work,
destined to be born and matured in the
latter days as its great crowning wonder.
Let it be strongly marked and observed
that to whatever people, church, or na-
tion it shall be given to represent this
marvellous work of God in the latter
days, when the fulness of all times will
come in, unto that people will be given to
unfold a new era, or that dispensation
spoken of by the inspired ones as the dis-
pensation of the fulness of times. That
people, church, or nation will develop-
those institutions, and those religious,
social, family, and national organizations
and relations belonging to that better and
.divine 'state of things to which the
brightest minds of all generations have
fondly looked, and concerning which
inspiration has been so divinely eloquent
and fruitful. That people will be bcrn in
the wonderful age, to become the wonder
of the age. God will not choose an old,
long- matured, corrupted, fast- dissolving
nation to be the child of promise, the heir
, of the future, and the representative and
leader of that regenerated society fore-
shadowed in the massive and (in some of
its meanings) awfully- significant revela-
tion of Jesus to John the Revelator —
u Behold I make all things new." No, it
will not be an old dying nation that will
be chosen; but in those times— in the ful-
ness of times, when God shall make all
things new, and consummate all things
which the Prophets have foretold, — in those
days, and not till then, will the child of
promise receive birth; and it will be born
. for the special purpose of being the heir
of the future, who shall unfold the great
Latter-day Dispensation and Kingdom,
give to mankind a new civilization, and
bear upon its shoulders the destiny of the
millennial era, in which Christ shall make
the world anew. That child of promise,
when born, will become the soul of a new
order of things, travel towards the head-
ship of the nations, pioneer a new forma-
tion of society, eaten the destiny of the
world, and carry it onwards and embody
, .it in a grand universal empire. That
child of promise will claim to be and
^must become acknowledged as God's
'.Israel of the last days, and that people
.will be the great wonder of the won-
derful age.

It is as this great wonder of the nine-,
^teenth century that we commence our'

Views of "Mormonism" and the * Mor-
mons"; and as we progress with the
subject and multiply its views, much
that can only be passingly touched
in this will be brought out; and we
are confident that if these views be exe-
cuted with even partial success, each
view will bring out the wonderful cha-
racter of the Latter- day Church and Work,
and show up that people and that pecu-
liar development of the nineteenth cen-
tury spoken of as " Mormonism" and the
"Mormons," to be really the wonder of the
age.

We start out with our views, then, by
boldly offering to our readers the rise,

Erogress, religion, and history of the
latter-day Saints and the Latter- day
Work, as constituting the most wonder-
ful fact even of this age of wonders. In-
deed, it is but the plain truth to affirm
that the whole history of the human race
does not present us with anything so
wonderful, nor the rise, progress, religion,
history, and development of any society
afford an example so broad and marvel-
lous as that of the community of Latter-
day Saints. Nor do we, in this view of
the subject, exceed the length and breadth
of the prophetic views taken by the in-
spired ones of all ages concerning the
Latter-day Church and the Latter-^ay
Work. They did not profess that any
people or any of the works and dispensa-
tions of God from the beginning would
equal his wonderful work and kingdom of
the fulness of times; but rather they have,
with massive and forceful inspiration,
strongly marked on almost every page of
their writings the transcendent character
of the Latter-day Work of God as the
wonder of all ages, and the raising up of
the Latter-day Church — the birth and
growth of his Israel of the last days, as
the culmination of all dispensations and
the glory of the millennial reign.

Now, the rise, progress, religion, his-
tory, and development of that community
known properly as " The Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints," have already
gone far towards the realization of the pro-
phetic views of the inspired men of old;
and those things which they only saw in
vision are now fast receiving embodiment
as facts, and growing up and appearing
among the leading facts of the age.
Indeed, as before affirmed, so far have the
Latter-day Church and Work already
travelled into the embodiment of the

Digitized by Google

TOWS OF "MORMOMNIC" AMD TBI " MORMONS."

'-rinons of Che Prophets, that history does
not afford us any example so broad and
wonderful as the rise, progress, and an-
foldings of the community of Saints and
their institutions.

It must not be imagined that the fore-
going is mere affirmation, or that we
stand alone in viewing "Mormonism" and
the "Mormons " as the roost wonderful, re-
ligious, and social fact that the nineteenth
century has produced. It is according to
this view of the case that every thought-
ful person who has carefully studied the
subject has viewed u Mor monism 1 ' and the
••Mormons." We admit that, in viewing
themselves as Israel of the last days, and
the work in which they are engaged as the
great Latter-day Work of God spoken of
by all his holy Prophets from the begin-
ning of the world, — in this view the
Saints stand without many outside sup-
porters; but the facts of their history
have often been admitted and marvelled
at, and thousands have viewed " Mormon-
ism" and the " Mormons" as the wonder of
*heage.

So correct is the view which we are tak-
ing, that there is a general testimony in
A%& favour. Even the bitterest enemies of
this work have had to admit the fact of
its being' strange, incomprehensible, and
unparalleled. And have not the people and
press of both America and England
loudly declared it to be the wonder of the
-age, both in words and deeds ? and have
not the Government and army of the
United States borne the most powerful
testimony to the same fact ? "All who have
had to do with " Mormonism" and the
-** Mormons," whether for good or evil,
whether individuals or states, or the
United States, have in many ways found
it the wonder of the age, and one which
they have received abundant evidence is
beyond the comprehension of human wis-
dom, and a fact which even nations
will not be able to grapple with or de-
atroy.'

Then has been written by non-" Mor-
mon" writers, and published both in
feeks and newspapers, abundant matter
that might easily be collected to support
the view winch we are taking of our sub-
ject ; but as it is neither our design to
' ooiBpue views of others, nor possible to
ftfre many extracts in this article, we will
hi hag our drat view to a close after mak-
jsng the Rowing potations from the
waem^of men noted in the literary world:*-

In Reynold ft Newspaper of Jury 4tb,
1858, there is an article entitled, " Tbi^
Mormons and Mormonism," written at
the time of the notorious Utah Expedition.
In the second paragraph of this article, ita
author writes —

u It may be that Mormonism has origin-
ated in imposture, and that many, if not all
of its peculiar rites and customs, are the
' abomination of desolation.' Let this point,
though not yet proved, be conceded ; still
the social and political problem is by no
means solved. After we have demonstrate*
the fabulousness of the gold tablets, con-
victed Joseph Smith of all sorts of possible
and impossible scoundrelisms, and proved hi»
followers to be a mixed multitude of taa>
gravest knaves and idiots that ever walked
the earth, Mormonism still remains a great
human fact— perhaps the greatest — cer-
tainly the most wonderful fact of this nine-
teenth century. As such, it is entitled to
our earnest and respectful consideration.*

The next extract is from a historical
work entitled " The Mormons, or Latter-
day Saints; with Memoirs of the Life and
Death of Joseph Smith, the * American
Mahomet.'" The work is from the
hands of one of England's most respon-
sible literary men— the celebrated author
of " Labour and-the Poor," and published
by the "National Illustrated Library.*
In closing to is volume, its author writes
as a climax to his history —

"Whatever the world may say of the
Mormons, the Mormons may say of them-
selves that tbey have succeeded in estab* 1
lishing the third political system that baa
grown out of Christianity. The Pope, the >
Queen of England, and Brigham Young
are alike heads of States and of churches:
and, what is perhaps as remarkable a tact,
the only State Church in America is that
which has been founded by Joseph Smith*
. . . . Their past history has been a
singular one. Their future history pro-
mises to be even more remarkable."

It is not our object to criticise the
wording of these extracts, nor to correct
the imperfect views which even the most
liberal and highest class of non-" Mormon"
writers may be expected to take when
writing of this "strange," "peculiar," "in-
comprehensible people." We give them
simply as strongly- worded testimony that
"Mormonism still remains a great
human fact— perhaps the irreatesWceiw

mromr of joufh rarrtu

~nins4e4nth oentury. w Since the article
In Reynolds'* Newspaper on "The
Mormons and Mormonism," when even
the author of the above striking language
feared lest the events of that time had
41 nipped in the bud one of the most pro-
mising attempts to emancipate labour
from the grinding joke of usury and
capital that the present world has yet
seen," "Mormonism" and the " Mor-
mons n have become a greater human
fact. Indeed, that which he declares to
be "certainly the most wonderful fact of
this nineteenth century" "still remains
m great human fact/' and has become im-
mensely more remarkable, because it was
not "nipped in the bud," but was won-
derfully opened and enlarged by the

events of that water of the history 'o£~
this " strange people*"

But we must leave further views and
the enlargement of points only touched
in this to be brought out in the course of
this series, and close this view by observing
that since the author of the historical
work entitled " The Mormons or Latter-
day Saints" finished bis book with
" Their past history has been a singular
one. Their future history promises to be
even more remarkable," nearly ten years
have elapsed. Whatever changes he
might have made in his views since that
time, surely his expectation that "their
future history promises to be even metre
remarkable" has been strikingly veri-
fied. 87

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITHi

(Continued from page 821, Vol. XXII)

[February, 1844.]

Tuesday, 27th. At home. Cool and
«Jear. River clear of ice.

In the afternoon, visited the printing
'office.

Mailed my "Views of the Powers and
'Policy," lee, to the President and Cabinet,
-Supreme Judges, Senators, Representa-
-tives, principal newspapers in the United
States, (all the German,) and many
postmasters and individuals.

Almon L. Fullmer and Hosea Stout
Tolunteered to go on the Western Explor-
ing Expcd^'on.

Wednesday, 28th. At home. Rainy
*day.

At four, p. m. , steamboat General Brooke
passed up the river: first boat this season.
2Jo ice in sight.

In the evening I sent brother CooRdge
to brother Phelps, to call the brethren
and pray for brother Coolidge's sick child,
' as he thought it could not live till morn-
ing. Elder John Taylor and others
- proved for him.

. Dr. AlphoDzo Young published an
appeal to his native State of Tennessee,
giving a history of our Missouri troubles,
and ashing the influence of that State to
tin staves*.

The Neighbour of to-day publishes the
following: —

"von PRESIDENT

JOSETH SMITH.

Having now raised the name of oar
General and Prophet to the head of oar
columns, it becomes us, as Latter-day Saints,
to be wise,* prudent, and energetie in the
cause that we pursue, and not let any
secondary influences control our minds er
govern our proceedings.

The step that we have taken is a bojd
one, and requires our united efforts, per-
severance, and diligence ; but important as
it may be, it is no greater than others hare
taken, and they have conceited that they
had a right, without molestation, to pursue
that course, and to vote for that man whoso
eltotion they in their wisdom thought
would be most conducive to the public
weal.

Aa American citizens, then, we presume
that all will concede to us thfe right ; and
.whatever may be their views respecting the
polioy of such a step* they will acknowledge
that we act legally, justly, and constitu-
tionally in pursuing our present course.

Some have nominated Henry Clay, some
Colonel Johnson,- others John C. Calhoun,
others Dafliel' Webster, au'ft others Martin

Digitized by Google

moon or JOUSBH

Thoee several committees unquestionably • teered^to join the Oregon Exploring-fift*'
-thought that they had each of them made the J pedition.

Friday, March 1st. Very frosty night;
showery day. West wind.
Spent the day in counselling.
Letters from the Elders show a rapid
progress of the work of the Lord ia
different parts of the Union. Elder
John E. Page has gone to Washington
for the purpose of proclaiming to the
rulers of our nation the principles of
eternal truth. By a letter received from -
him, we learn he has been preaching and
baptizing in Boston and vicinity.

" The High Council of the Church of Jesna* '
Christ of Latter- day Saints at Nauvoo to>
the Saints of this Stake, greeting : —

Beloved brethren,— Realizing as we do»
the importance of the work in which we arw
engaged, we deem it expedient to lay before*
you such matters from time to time as in oar
opinion will be beneficial to the Saints, and
the spirit in ns may seem to require.

We would remind our brethren, the '
Elders, who hare at sandry times been seat
forth as flaming heralds, messengers of the- ;
everlasting Gospel, wljo proclaim a message*
of salvation to their fellow-men, thereby *
gathering and bringing up to Zion the>
scattered elect of God, to be taught i
perfectly the principles of salvation;
whilst their message is abroad, we have had
our mission to remain at Nauvoo, and tft
participate with the Saints in the blessing*- ;
of porerty, if such it may be called, amid
sickness and distress, in the vexations and
turmoils of the unruly and' ungodly, for
which no man has paid us, for days, weeks*
months, and years ; that eur time has been
spent in endeavouring to settle difficulties*
set in order the things needful to salvation ^
in trying to reconcile and cement the feel-
ings of our b^thren to each other in (hct
spirit of the Gospel ; whilst at times, circa
stances of a more painful nature have
presented.

Indiriduals have been brought before un-
charged with high orimes in the violation of
the laws, of heaven, on whom much patient
exertion in the labours of lore have by ua
been, bestowed, to reclaim them from tbe>
error and evil of their (Joinge.

We regret to have it to say that in some
instances our efforts have been fruitless £
for after we have found ia tbem an obstinate*
and un yielding spirit to the principles of
right, we have (reluctantly) been compelled 1
to sever them from the Church as withered ^
branches.

Such person! hot nnfrequentty manifesto

; selection in namiog the man of their
choice. They selected their several can-
didates, because they thought that they were
the wisest, the greatest statesmen, and the
most competent to fill the Presidential chair,
wails t they severally thought that the other
candidates were incompetent.

We have been governed by the same
principles ; and if others think they have
made the wisest selection, so do we. If
others think they have nominated the
greatest statesman, so do we; and while
those several committees think that none of
the Dominations made are so good as their
own, we think that the man of our choice is
the most able, the most competent, the best
qualified, and would fill the Presidential
chair with greater dignity to the nation;
and that his election would be conducive of
more happiness and prosperity at home and
abroad than that of any- other man in these
United States.

This is a thing that we, as Latter-day
Saints, know; and it now devolves upon us
as an imperative duty to make others ac-
quainted with the same things, and to u*o
nil our influence at home and abroad for the
accomplishment of this object.

Mr. Smith is not so generally known
personally as are several of the above-named
candidates; and although he has been
winch spoken of as a man, he has been
a great deal calumniated and misrepre-
sented, and his true character is very little
known.

It is for us to take away this false colour-
ing ; and by lecturing, by publishing, and
circulating bis works, his political views,
his honour, integrity, and virtue, stop the
fool mouth of slander, and present him
before the public in his own colours, that
he may be known, respected, and sup-
ported."

Thamas S. Edwards volunteered to
join the Exploring Expedition to the
Rooky Mountains.

Thursday, 29th. Called at my Office,
and gave brother Phelps the Zanesville
Gazette of January 31, containing the
speech of Caesius M. Clay, delivered in
Bcott County, Kentucky, December 30,
1843, on annexing Texas , to the United
States ; and instructed him to reply to the
same, and; gave him (be subject matter,
and directed the manner I wished it
done; and then rode out withjPorter
BodnshAr
The OAs© steamer went op the river.

Moeea 8*«kll*ft4 Rufes

up toe n
ftBesYoh'

Y«W|tfceirwie*Wnese the* W»n#wHsV

Digitized by

HUTOEY OF JOIBPH IMITH.

fciddlng defiance to all and every good rule,
regulation, and law, set forth for the
guidance of all 8aints.

One single trait of their depravity is fre-
quently manifested by their going to some
ignorant Elder and getting re- baptized into
the Church, not having first made the least
satisfaction (as was required) to such as
they have injured.

We have to say that baptism in such cases
la Dot valid and cannot profit. We here
continue to say, Let such expelled person
first be reconciled to his injured brother,
and bring forth fruit meet for repentance ;
or, in case of dissatisfaction with our de-
cision, take an appeal and reverse it, if
fouud wrong.

Expelled persons not complying with
these rules (which are in accordance with
the order of heaven), whom we have been
once necessitated to withdraw fellowship
from, cannot be restored in any illegal way ;
and we would say that all such clandestine
creeping into the Church is climbing up
some other way, and that such persons can
only be considered as thieves and robbers.
We would also remind the Elders that it is
improper for them to re-baptise any such
expelled persons while they remain thus
obstinate ; and that it will subject them to
censure, and bring them to trial before a
proper tribunal of the Church.

We therefore hope, for the future, that
certain officious, forward-feeling Elders will
be more prudent in such cases hereafter.

We remain yours in the bonds of the new
4md everlasting covenant,

William Marks,
Charles C. Rich,

Presidents.
Samuel Bent,
L. D. Wilson,
David Fullmer,
Thomas Groveb,
Newel Kkiort,
Leonard Soby,
Jambs Allreb-,
Alpheus Cutler,
George W. Hakris,
Aaron Johnson,
W. Huntington, sen.,
H. G. Sherwood,

Counsellors.
Hosea Stout,

Clerk*

The Times and Seasons of March 1st
p r ese nts my name to the public as can-
didate for President of the United States.

Jonathan Dunham filed his bonds with
the Recorder, and took the oath of office
<*» Wharfmaster of the city of Nauvoo.

Elder W. Woodruff very sick: the
37th anniversary of his birthday.

Saturday, 2nd. Ten, a.m., held Mayor's
Court. Reproved Elder S. B. Stoddard
for giving appearance of evil in attempt-
ing to be bail for Orsimus F. Boatwick.
Brother Stoddard afterwards explained te>
my satisfaction.

President B. Young visited Macedonia,
accompanied by his brother, L. D. Young,
and preached there on the Sabbath.

Sunday, 3rd. Ground covered with
snow. Attended prayer-meeting in the
evening.

Monday, 4th. I suggested the name
of James Arlington Bennett, of Long
Island, as a candidate for Vice-President.

At early candle-light, the First Pre-
sidency, Twelve Apostles, Temple Com-
mittee, and others, met in Council. I
insert the minutes : —

" George Coray came in, and said he waa
sent by Lyman Wight to get sheep, &&, to
carry to the Pine country, to receipt for it,
or agree to pay lumber.

President Joseph suggested that it waa
best to let the Nauvoo House remain aa
it is until the Temple is completed, aa.
we need the Temple more than anj thing
else.

Elder Haws said there was some dissatis-
faction about being sent from the Pinery
without accounts, &c, and could not have
credit on Tithing, and one month at the
Pinery is only called fifteen days here.

President Joseph told them they should
have their number of days in full. * We
will let the Nauvoo House stand until the
Temple is done, and we will put all our
forces on the Temple, turn all our lumber
towards the Temple, and cover it up this
fall, and sell the remainder to get blasting
powder, fuse, rope, steel, &c.

And when the Temple is completed, no
man shall pass the threshold till he haa
paid five dollars ; and every stranger shall
pay five dollars towards liquidating the
cash debts on the Temple, and 1 will not
have the house dirtied.

Let Woodworth go to the Pinery, take
the things wanted, and bring back the
lumber, and his wages go on as usual.

Let a Special Conference be called on the
6th of April, and all the Elders called homo
who can come. Let the people of this city
come together on Thursday, at nine o'clock
in the morning. After two or three lec-
tures, we will call on the people to fill up
the box with liberal contributions, te pro-
cure cash materials for the Temple*"

Digitized by

msTORT or jonra nam

I instructed a letter to be written to
James Arlington Bennett to consult bim
on the subject of nominating him for
Vice-President. I here insert the letter: —
"Nauvoo, March 4, 1844.

Dear General, — Tours of the 1st of Feb.
was duly received, and produced the most
pleasing sensations among jour friends here,
and especially with the Prophet, who said,
* Tell General Bennett I am perfectly satis-
fied with his explanation ; and as to * temper ,'
I had not even thought of it.'

You suggest that • brother Joseph's cor-
respondence with Mr. Calhoun would appear
in some degree to contradict the noble sen-
timents expressed in that able document* to
yourself ; but if you will notice that his
communication to you was written as an
individual, and that to Mr. Calhoun as the
voice of the people he represents, I think
you will discover no discrepancy ; but if so,
Bell me particulars without delay, and you
ahall have an explanation.

1 have recently mailed to you General
Smith's 'Views of the Powers and Policy of
Ike Government of the United States,' which
ware drawn forth in consequence of his
friends selecting him as a candidate for the
next Presidency, which he very reluctantly
acquiesced in, and it seems would not, only
to support a favourite maxim — ' the people
mutt govern? but having once been p re-
Tailed upon to suffer his name to go abroad
as a candidate, it is desirable to him of
course, as to every patriot, that those who
have brought him forward should use all
honourable means to sustain him in the
canvass; and if I had not felt disposed to
aphold him before the people, I never,
would have been the first to urge his
nomination ; and during the short space
since his name has been published, his
friends have been astonished at the flood of
influence that is rolling through the Western
States in his favour, and in many instances
where we might have least expected it.

1 need net assert what the wisest of the
wise admit without argument — that General
faith is the greatest statesman of the 19th
century. Then why should not the nation
secure to themselves his superior talents,
that they may rise higher and higher in the
estimation of the crowns of the nations,
and exalt themselves through his wisdom ?

Your friends here consider your letter
about the Governorship of Illinois just like
'every man in your quarter, mere sport,'
child's sport; for who would stoop to the
play of a single State, when the WHOLE
MATION was on the board?— a cheaper
fame!

General Smith says, if he must be Pre-
sident, Arlington Bennett must be Vice-Pre-

sident. To this his friends are agreed —
agreed in everything ; and in this consists our
power : consequently, your name will appear ,
in our next paper as our candidate for
Vice-President of the United States. You
will receire our undivided support, and we
expect the same in return for General
Smith for the Presidency ; and we will go it
with the rush of a whirlwind, so peaceful, so
gentle, that it will not be felt by the nation
till the battle is won.

Dear Geueral, if glory, honour, force, and
power in righteous principles are desired by
jon, now is your time. You are safe in fol-
lowing the counsel of that man who holds ,
communion with heaven ; and I assure you,
if you act well your part, victory's the
prize.

Brother Arlington, look well to ' General
Smiths Views,' and his letter to Calhoun,
and comprehend him fully. Say to the New
Yorh Herald, Now is the time for your ex-
altation : raise your standard high, sound
your trumpet long and loud, support Gene- .
ral Smith and myself at the next election ;
and when we are exalted, you shall not be
forgotten.

Hold forth no false shadows to honest
men ; yet though there is but one best piece .
to the fatted calf, yet there are many good
slices; therefore you will not forget the
•Advertiser,' 'Nile's Register, 9 • Globe, 9 &c,
&c.

Get up an electoral ticket — New York,
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and any 8tate
within yonr reach. Open your mouth wide,
and God shall fill it. * Cut your quill, and
the ink shall flow freely.

Commence at your own mansion and stay
not, only for electioneering purposes, till by
some popular route you reaoh Nauvoo ; aad
if you preach ' Mormonism,' it will help
you. At every stage, tavern, boat, and com-
pany, expose the wickedness of Martiniam
in saying, If « he is elected President, he will
annihilate the * Mormons," and proclaim the
sycophancy of the candidates generally, ana
uphold Joseph sgainst every aspersion ; and
you shall triumph gloriously.

We have many things to sly to yer t
which we must keep till we see you fate to
face.

All is right at Nauvoo. We are now
fitting out a noble company to explore
Oregon and California, and progressing ra-
pidly with the great Temple, which we
expeot to roof this season, though there is
yet a chance at the ' eleventh hour' for you
to bring in your thousand, and secure your
• penny.*

On the 6th of April is our 8pecial Con-
ference at Nauvoo. I wish you could be
here on that occasion, but the time is too
short. From that period our Elders will go-

Digitized by

forth by hundreds or thousands and search
the land, preaching religion and politics;
and if God goes with them, who can with-
stand their influence?

My words are the words of your friends
here— Come and see as. Brother Joseph**,
Young's, and Bernbisel's respects to you.

Mrs. Richards' kind "respects, with mine, to
yourself and all youra*

Most respectfully yours, j
W. Richajidb."

The Temple Committee proposed to
establish a powder manufactory.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 5, 1861.

Introductory Address. — It is a time-honoured custom among editors, in enter-
ing upon the duties of their position, to fully lay before their readers their intention*
and views, and the policy ihey intend to pursue in the publication of their sentiments. -
This the public expect them to do, because upon the attractiveness of such a pros-
pectus depends the patronage they may afford them. There does not exist, the
slightest necessity for us to conform to this custom. The policy we shall adopt and
pursue has been clearly and ably defined by our predecessors: we deem it superfluous
to repeat it at length. The readers of the Star need not the assurance, we trust,
thai it will be our constant endeavour to make it, by the assistance of the Spirit of
the Lord, a periodical from which profitable lessons of instruction and counsel can
always be drawn — a periodical worthy of its importance and previous reputation.

As the Saints were informed in the last Number of the Star, we have been ap-
pointed by the First Presidency of the Church to take charge of the publishing and
financial departments of this Mission, and also to manage all affairs pertaining to the
emigration from these isles and other places coming within the purview of this
Office. In entering upon the discharge of these duties, we feel their importance, and
our inability to properly attend to them, unless aided by that Spirit whicb God has
promised to bestow upon his servants. We are cheered and consoled by the know-
ledge that in all our labours we shall have the hearty co-operation of our beloved
brethren, Presidents Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich, whose efforts to carry into
effect the wise and beneficial changes counselled by the First Presidency of the Church
have made the carrying out of our instructions much easier to us. It is our earnest
wjsh and prayer that the spirit of love and union which they have enjoyed in their
joint labours in these lands may be partaken of by ourself ; and we have the as-
surance that it will.

To the Saints the tidings from Zion is more than usually cheering. Everything
consistent with the welfare and prosperity of the work has been done by the Pro-
phet Brigham to lighten their burdens and to cheer them onward in their path to
eternal glory. Never at any previous time have the Elders on missions to these
lands received such strict charges in relation to their duties among the Saints as those*
who are now here. Never have they received more strict and binding instructions
to be devoted and self-sacrificing, to study the welfare and salvation of the people,
and to manifest to the Saints in word and deed that they aro fathers. We have
me donbtihey will seek to cany out these instruction*. If they do, the effiscfc-ffiBt

Digitized by

fee felt throughout the length and breadth of this entire Mission, and be witnessed la
the increase of faith and good works among the churches.

The a!l-ab>orbing desire with us at the present time— and we hope ever will be—
is to retain within us. and act out in all our movements for the promotion of the
work of God, the spirit enjoyed by the Prophets in Zion. We sincerely hope that
there is not an Elder in these lands who does not entertain a similar desire. We
wish all to feel a portion of the responsibility that rests upon the Presidency here,
and to step forward as fellow-labourers, bearers of the same Priesthood, co-heirs of
the same glory, and assist us in bearing it off. Brethren of the Priesthood, the
eyes of the authorities and Saints hi Zion are upon you ; great expectations are en^
tettained respecting you and the good results that will follow your ministrations.
Let not any fai'ure on your part produce disappointment. By acting in strict con-
formity with the instructions which have been so copiously given by President
Young, yon will exert an influence for good that will be widely felt. Show onto the
Saints and the people that your mission is one of salvation, and you will have accom*
pHshed much. Jf confidence should by any means have been weakened, it will be re-
stored, and you will find yourselves in a position to accomplish, with the Saints, all
that may be req aired of you.

*It was somewhat expected, when the reins were slackened by the First Presidency,
that there might be a falling off in the payment of Tithing and the making deposits
ftfr emigration ; but it is now time that the Saints throughout the Mission, for than?
own sakes and the sake of the great work in which they are engaged, should again
attend to these matters. Let the Elders, therefore, continue, in a fatherly and in-
structive manner, to call their attention to paying their Tithing and making deposits
for their emulation as promptly and liberally as their circumstances will reasonablj
permit. In doing this they will be blessed.

Emigration.— As. the season of emigration is again close at hand, we wish to draw* '
the attention of the Saints to the subject. We do not expect to give, in a sirt^te
article, all that we may have to publish in relation to this matter; but shall write,
from time to time, such counsel and items of information as we may deem expedient.
The first step to be taken by the S tints, who intend emigrating the coming season,
is to send op to this Office their names, orders, and deposits. This should be attended
to without delay, to enable us to make timely arrangements on the other side of the
water for the purchase of the outfit needed for the Plains. Cattle and -provisions
can frequently be bought much cheaper on the frontiers In the winter than after
navigation opens and the gold- seekers and emigrants for Pike's Peak, California, and
other places begin to make their purchases. If the Saints will be prompt in
fmrnidhing us with their orders and deposits, it will be a benefit to themselves, as we
shall he able, through the Elders who will act as agents, to avail ourselves of every
advantage of the market.

1 There are some articles of the outfit — oxen, cows, and provisions, the prices of
'which fluctuate: we cannot, therefore, state the exact amount that will be needed
for their purchase. We think that £60, at least, should be deposited for teams of
two yoke of oxen and one waggon, and £4 for handcarts. . If the prices of oxen,
waggons, and provisions should be the same this year as they were last, (but of this
we cannot speak definitely,) then £60 will purchase a team of two yoke of oxen and
one waggon, with an ordinary supply of good plain provisions for Ave persons*
few* will cost about £5 each, varying Above or below this amount according to'

Digitized by Google

TOKENS OF DIYINITY Of " MORMONISM."

quality. Tents will be worth from £2 Is. 6d. to £2 10s. A tent will be found
useful on the Plains, especially where there are a number of persons to a waggon
and team. One good-sized tent, however, where there is scarcity of means, will
answer for the accommodation of the occupants of two waggons.

The railway fare from New York to Florence (the point on the Missouri river
where the emigrant Saints are organized and fitted out for the Valley,) will probably
be about £2 18s. per head for adults : children under twelve years of age and over
five pass at half fares; those under the latter age, free. To every full fare 100 lbs*
of luggage is allowed free ; half fares are allowed 60 lbs. free. Extra luggage will
probably be charged for at the rate of 14s. 7d. per 100 lbs. As we came through
New York, on our way to Liverpool, we endeavoured to make a contract with the
railway agents for the carrying of our coming season's emigration from that point to
Florence. They were not prepared to do so then, but promised to write us what
their fare would be as soon as they could correspond with the Superintendents of
other lines over which our emigration would travel. When we receive their letter,
we can inform the Saints what the exact amount of the railway fare and the freight
of their extra luggage will be.

We trust that those of the Saints who have means will not delay their departure
in the hope by so doing of bettering their condition for another season. Nothing
can be gained by this. Even if an increase of means should be the result of such a
course, there would be a decrease of the Spirit, because no Latter-day Saint can bo
dilatory in the keeping of a commandment so important as that given for the gather*
ing together of the people, without grieving the Spirit of the Lord.

Abuttals.— George Q. Cannon, of the Twelve Apostles, with his wife, accom-
panied by Elders John Kay, W. C. Staines, 0. V. Spencer, and John Neednam, ar-
rived per steamship Arago, which sailed from New York December 8th, 1860, and
landed at Southampton December 21st. These brethren and also sister Cannon
are well in body and in the enjoyment of good spirits.

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORhf ONISM.'

BY ELDER E. L. T. BABBISO*.

(CmUkuud finm page 772, F«l XXII.)

CHAPTER V.
SCRIPTURAL EVIDENCE.

The Eternal Existence of the Race.

We have not previously referred much to
the Scriptures for evidence, because we have
trusted rather to evidence of the Divinity of
the Latter-day Gospel from the natural
beauty and applicability of the truth
itself. But we pause at this period, before
drawing attention to further principles of
^ Mormonism," to introduce some addi-
tional scriptural evidence in support of
the leading ideas we have referred to.

We have treated first in these chapters

of the Divine origin of man and the
endless existence of u mankind* as actual*
men and women, because these principles
prove a key not only to all the rest of the
principles of "Moimonism," but to every
scriptural ordinance or principle on
record.

Unless these points be understood,
nothing else will be seen as it is. The-
sentiments of the Gospel— the necessity-
of the Priesthood in the Church of-
Christ— the peculiar promises made to thst
ancient fathers— the Gospel promises^ to
man at large— all hinge on the fee*
men and women will endlessly retain *»

Digitized by

Google

of DiVnoxr nr " MORBompn."

their natural characteristics, and on the
further fact that a Divine nature capable
of unlimited perfection exists within
them.

In our past remarks we have endeavoured
to show that an immortality in which
men and women will still retain all their
present capabilities and natural prompt-
ings and affections must be true, because
any other kind of a future must involve a
dissolution of our being ; while " immor-
tality," if it means anything at all, means
the continuance of our present selves
eternally.

We know very well that not a single
characteristic — not an impulse — not a
natural capability could be entirely taken
from our being to-day, and the present
perfect being be still said to exist. Then
.why suppose that such qualities can be
removed in some future state, and we be
truly the same individuals then ?

If there is to be a total change or
removal of the strongest and dearest
Inborn qualities of our being, how shall
our identity be retained ? and if our
complete identity be not retained, what
benefit to us will be a future state?
Why talk to me of immortality, if a differ-
ently organized being is to be there
instead of me ? If in that future state I
mm to be there, I can only know and
distinguish that it is my actual self by
the possession of the very feelings, sensa-
tions, necessities, and desires by which I
distinguish myself here. Now, among
those impulses that so go to make up our
present sense of identity, parental and
matrimonial promptings, ckiltul powers,
rilling abilities, and acquisitive desires are
amongst the most promioent, and must
therefore be included in our future, if our
identity be retained. As before remarked,
the horror that fills our bosoms at the
idea of parting with any of these quali-
ties proves how much they belong to our
identity. The voice of our whole being
cries out for the preservation of the unity
and entirety of our souls, without which
our whole conscious nature testifies there
oannot be for us a future existence.

Our present object is to show that not
on\j do the voices of our nature demon-
strate the truth of these ideas, but that
the Scriptures are the great preachers of
this doetrine.

They commence by introducing us to
father Adam and mother Eve existing
«fcil» hnmortai beings as husband and

wife, and with power while still immortal'
to increase and multiply. While immor-
tal, they could love, hate, eat, drink,
attend to matters of agriculture, &c.
They lived, while immortal, on a tan-
gible world, and were surrounded by
animals, fruits, flowers, rivers, gold, silver,
the onyx and other precious stones ; and
with these material matters around them
as man and woman, husband and wife,
they would eternally have existed* had they
not sinned and brought death upon their
path. Their true and natural condition
was to enjoy an immortality of the very
kind that " Mormonism" pictures out for
the future of mankind. The "fall"
brought death, or a loss of their bodies, a
breaking up of their associations as husband
and wife, and a separation from a tangible
earth. If any punishment was inflicted
at all, it was the taking them away from
such a heaven as " Mormonism" preaches.

Now, if modern Christianity be true,
with its ideas of a future where all such .
relationships as husband and wife, father .
and mother, are to be eternally done away,
then instead of Adam and Eve, being*
punished by the fact of death being
inflicted on them and their posterity, they
gained a great blessing by breaking God's
commandment, because it brought them
an opportunity of getting to a Christian's
heaven. It enabled them to get rid of
such " material," " carnal " arrangements
as parental and matrimonial loves, the
fruits, rivers, and precious metals of this*
earth! Satan certainlv appears in this
light as their best adviser. God told
them how they could live for ever as
husband and wife on a' tangible earth.
The " serpent," knowing it to be nothing
but a "carnal" arrangement, led them
from it, and got them to take a oourse-
tbat led to a u spiritual" existence.

Why do Christian theologians blamo
mother Eve for falling, when in so doing
she only opened the way by which man-
kind can escape to the very kind of
a heaven they preach? Had she not
fallen, it is dear they would have re*
mained on this earth eternally, and thus .
lost (their kind of) immortality !

To preach immortality as being a
spiritual state divested of the associations
of this life such as Adam and Eve
enjoyed, is to preach up the beauty, tho<
loveliness, and benefits of the fall, and
amounts to glorifying Satan, because it:
was bis teachings that led to the death ofr

Digitized by

Google

the body, and the consequent lots of each
associations. Such teaching is prac-
tically nothing, more nor less than offer-
ing mankind a continuance of the effects
of the fall as the greatest; benefit and
blessing of the Gospel.

.To preach a tangible immortality of
eternal men and women, with every
passion and property of this life, except
it* sin, ignorance, and mortality, is the
only way by which we can show that
Adam and Eve enjoyed immortality
before they fell — the only way by. which
we can prove that they lost immortality
in disobeying God— the only way in which
we can demonstrate that the fall was a
curse, and the promise of God that he
will " destroy death and him that hath
-the power of it" a real blessing.

Toe reader can take his choice : he mast
either believe that Adam and Eve would
have lost immortality by obeying God, or
he must believe that in a true kind of im-
mortality mankind can exist as husband
and wife eternally on a tangible earth.

. If we pass on to Abraham, Jacob, and
other worthies, we shall find them filled
with ideas of such an immortality as
Adam and Eve enjoyed. We find them
pleading with God for a numberless pos-
terity and for extensive tracts of country.
They obtain promises of a numberless
host of children and of a beautiful country
as an "everlasting inheritance;" but they
die, not having up to that time received a
fulfilment of those promises, — Abraham,
not possessing so much as a foot of land.
Now, the question arises, In what did the
peculiar blessing of numberless children
and vast tracts of land consist to men
who never in their lives saw either the
children or the lands, and directly after
death mounted to a heaven where all such
earthly matters are left behind ? It is
clear that posterity, wealth, and lands
could only be worth so much anxiety —
could only be worth the oath of a God
swearing by himself, in the light of a
future in which Abraham and Isaac should
'return to this earth again, and ehildren
and lands be repossessed.

Again : We find these men who ought
to have known what hind of a future life
awaited them up to their very last mo-
ments, discussing the earthly blessings
<2od had promised them, instead of re-
joicing that they were going to quit such
subjects for ever* Every honest mind
«m Jdmit that, their dea^bed scenes

were as different from modern death-bebt
scenes as possible ; for while modern re*
ligionists at such times draw their minds -
away from all the associations of this life,
these men appear to have thought of
scarcely anything else. As neither in life *
nor in death did these men personally
realize any benefit from Jehovah's pro-
mises, their conduct is inexplicable, unless
we admit that they looked forward to an
immortality in which these tangible bless-
ings would be realized. All must admit
that in such a litfht their rejoicings and
the benefit of Jehovah's promises come
out with redoubled force and meaning.

We now pass on to Job, and we shall
see that he was a believer in Adam and
Eve's kind of immortality, for we find
him rejoicing that although skin- worms .
would destroy his body, yet " tit his flesbP
he should stand upon the earth at the
latter day, and see God for himself. Now,
if Job will come on the earth again in
his "flesh," why not Job's wife? And
if his wife, why not bis children ? And
if the whole family are here— men and
women of flesh, why not all the ties and
attachments such as belong to men and
women of flesh ? These natural impulses
must exist in their bosoms, if they are »
identically the same individuals; and if
such impulses exist, they must be de-
veloped, or the same hell will exist then
as wouid exist now, were all domestic and
social impulses stifled within us or set
aside.

We will just glance at Ezekiel. He tells
us that the whole house of Israel shall be
brought out of their graves, and their
bones reclothed with "sinews," "flesh,*
and "skin." Here is a multitude that
will live again upon this earth as actual •
men and women. They are to arise with i
the same bodily organization ; for part is
to come to part as before : consequently,
the power to reproduce their species will
exist in them; and if existing, it will 1
certaiuly be developed, for God never yet
implanted a power that he did not call •
into action.

" But the New Testament," says the »
modern religionist, " what says it r It
says that Jesut, when an immortal being'
— when exhibited as a specimen of the
" first fruits" of the resurrection, could <
eat, drink, walk, and talk, — could be
handled and felt, and was tangible to
mortal senses t consequently, imnwtstttyvi
or the risurieetion st»s% is deelsred tefctv

Digitized by

Google

TOKKfi or Duonvr m (t mokmonisk*"

• > tangible exktence, unless the "first
fMta of the resurrection were of a
totally different kind to what the rest of
ita " fruits" are to be. If it be true that
when Jems appears, " we shall be like
Mam," then we shall be exactly like an
immortal man as portrayed by "Mor-
monism."

Then as to the teachings of Jesus; they
are that "the meek shall inherit the
earth ;" that in the latter days he will be
seen coming in the clouds of heaven;
that when he comes here he will " gather
before him all nations," at which time the
righteous will take possession of a king-
dom, they agreeing precisely with the
words of Daniel, that when " the thrones
are cast down" the Ancient of Days
shall sit* and ten times ten thousands be
assembled around him ; that the Son of
Kan shall be brought near before him,
. aad that there shall be giyen unto him
*deiiajrion and glory and a kingdom,
that all people, nations, and languages
shall serve him and not only given to
Mm, but a the kingdom and dominion
and the greatness of the kingdom under
the whole heaven shall be given to the
people of the Saints of the Most High,
— * all dominions shall serve and obey

. As all admit that the Son of God will
oomeat a time of resurrection and of im-
aaertality, it is clear from Daniel's account
of what will follow his coming that this
ta«e of * immortality" will commence by
introducing upon this earth an eternal
tangible kingdom invested with " glory,"
" dominion^ and " greatness," which all
* people shall u serve and obey." Here, in
a state of immortality, we find ruling
operations still going on — nations still
..existing as "nauuu*" — " Jo*aialou,"
wealtb» and " greatness " still employing
. the attention of mankind, only controlled
4r? the "Molt High" on righteous prin-
' ofpsst, instead of being subject to greed,
avariee, hist, and selfishness, as to-day.
Now, what is all this " worldly, minded"
' description of Daniel's but an har-
monious working out of the teachings
of other portions of the Bible, which
. go to show that . immortal Adam ex-
,**ed on a material, tangible world,
-«Bth all the elements necessary for
r *ata)tb> power, and glory around him;
«aba%<Q*T** is to restore all that Adam
k sasaj aad that he will oome to do it at the

Daw of the « retthutkm ol^talaft P» ftoWatal atooV ad rtd e mlit

For what else could oome fco pass at a
time of " restitution of all things " but a
restoration of things to the Adamie con-
dition ? and that was material and tan-
gible enough I What other kind of an
immortality could Christ institute when
he comes, if he really restitutes or
restores "all things?" And if this
" Ancient of Days," whose personal ap-
pearance so much resembled the venerable
head of our race that Daniel observed
that the " hair of his head was white like
wool," should turn out, as Joseph Smith
haa btated, to be Father Adam, the most
"ancient" man that ever lived in " days,"
delegated by the eternal Eloheim to gather
his children around his Patriarchal throne
at the time when Christ has abolished
death, and the Patriarchal government
(broken by the long interval of mortality)
recommences its sway, the "restitution of
all things" is made yet more complete,
and the harmony of Scripture statements
as to the nature of immortality is greater
still.

From Daniel and Christ's combined
description of man's future, we pass on
to Paul, who, in perfect agreement with
the above, tells us that it shall be shown at
Christ's "coming and kingdom" "who is the
true and only potentate," we proceed to
Peter, and find him, while expecting a
purification of the earth by fire, when the
elements "would melt with fervent heat,"
saying; that " according to Ais promise, we
look for a new heaven and a new [or re-
newed] earth, wherein dweileth righteous-
ness and we Close with John the Re-
velator's grand description of the time
when God himself shall dwell with man,
and " the tabernacle of God shall be with
men ;" at which period the "kings of the
e«u lii** are to take "tuclr kloij Uuu iheir
riches" into the city of the New Jeru-
salem, — which, consequently, will not be
very far off the surface of the earth!
Here are kings again, riches and- glory
again, at the very period when mankind
are so far advanced in immortality that
God is to dwell with man ; and if kings
and riches, why not every other associa-
tion of this life?

Thus the Bible opens with a tangible
immortality, and closes with the same.
We find mankind social beings at the
morn of creation, and endowed with
power to live eternally in that condition.
They hX\ f and death breaks '

Digitized by

feaka in Upon
i fOaUseBaaips;

Google

mmmuar.

bat the voice of prophecy, from the time
•* when the world began," is heard de-
claring a "restitution of all things."
Each succeeding Prophet takes up the
story, — one declaring that be saw the
time when the veil of the covering that is
over all nations should be destroyed, and
death swallowed up in victory ; another,
that, in spite of death in his " flesh," he
will jet see God ; a third predicting the

rise of a whole nation to the same coo-
dition ; while all the rest see this eartk
down to the latest time to which their
visions ever extended, with kingdoms, ns>»
tions, riches, wealth, and glory still upon
its face. Thus the voices of our bosoms
are that true man exists as man eternally,
with every element of this life, except its
mortality, weakness, and misrule still
around his path.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

General. — The Paris correspondent or the Morning Post telegraphs that the garrison of
Oaeta has been diminished io numbers by the dismissal of a portion of the Rojal Guard
whose fidelity was doubtful. The remaining defenders of Gaetaare in a deplorable state;
never the less the place is still good, and the defence may be prolonged for some time, in con-
sequence of the distance of the attacking batteries. Several thousand soldiers who left Gaeta
and entered the Roman States are returning to the Abruzzi, where the reactionary movements
continue. It is said that many Austrian statesmen recognise the desirability of setting
Venetia free, and at Vienna people begin to talk of the probable abdication of Francis
Joseph, and of a regency by the Archduke Maximilian, whose opinion it is that, if the
empire is to be saved, Italy must be abandoned. The. sale of Venetia is now the most
. important question for European statesmen. It is currently reported that England and
France have come to an understanding with regard to Venetia, and that a joint commis-
sion will shortly be sent to Vienna, urging the cession of Venetia without any territorial
recompense. The Timet says the private accounts received from Hungary are exceedingly
unfavourable. No taxes are now paid, as the persons who are inclined to discharge their obli-
gations to the State cannot safely venture to do so. In Presburg — a city that is almost within
sight of Vienna, tobacco is publicly sold in the marketplace, which is just in front of the
building occupied by the financial authorities. The peasants in the more remote districts
of the kingdom are beginning to produce their long-hoarded Kossuth notes, which are
bought by unprincipled speculators at the rate of 40 kreutzers per florin. There is also
a new kind of note in circulation, which is said to bear the signatures of Kossuth*
Klapka, and Duschek. Very many 20f. pieces, as well French as Sardinian, are in cir-
culation, and it is said there are silver dollars with the head of the Count of Flanders
en them.

American. — Intelligence from Port Dover, 0«wego, Buffalo, Detroit, and other plaees,
gives accounts of great loss of life and property consequent on the severe gale that has
lately swept the lakes, and prevailed throughout the whole State of California. Guada-
lajara surrendered to the constitutional forces on the 29th Oct. ; and on the 1st Nov*
Zaragoza, at the head of 6,000 men, attacked Marquez, who had arrived within twelve
leagues of that city, and completely routed him, with the loss of artillery, baggage,
money, &c, &c. A silver mine of astounding richness has been recently discovered in
the vicinity of Bear Valley, San Bernardino county. The Deseret Newt of Nov. 14 says—
*' The late Superintendent of Indian Affairs for Utah Territory, Dr. J. Forney, who has

jnade some half-dozen trips to and from Washington since his suspension from office last
summer, in order to get his accounts with the Department settled up properly, took his
final departure for home on Friday last, as understood by those most familiar with his
affairs. He was accompanied by Captain Ruth, special agent of the United States, who>
came all the way from the federal city, at the Doctor's request, to assist in unravelling the
mystery that seemed to envelop his official acts and prevent a settlement of his accounts.**
The News of the same date also says — " Colonel Benjamin Davis, of Missouri, successor
to Dr. Forney, as Superintendent of Indian Affairs for this Territory, accompanied bf

' Mr. Edwards, who, we understand, is to act aa bis clerk or secretary, arrived in this city
en Sunday morning last, in sixty days from the Missouri river, as we are informed, wttfti
carriage and baggage waggon — travelling leisurely emigrant fashion. From report, (he
Colonel intends to do up things on a different plan from that pursued by his predecessor i

-*ut what the proposed change will offset, time must disclose,*

Digitized by

mrmorabilla;

MEMORABILIA*

Passports. — The system of passports was first established in Austria about the veer
1655. J

Sfesi> of Rifle-bullets. — A rifle-bullet takes upwards of three seconds to fly 90#
jardt, and nearly eight seconds to fly 1,200 yards.

Length of 8olar Eclipses. — The longest time a total eclipse can last is 7 min., 5S
see.; and that of an annular eclipse, 12 min., 24 sec.

Torricellian Vacuum — The vacant space above the quicksilver in the closed end of a
"barometer is called the Torricellian vacuum, from its having been found bj Torricelli to
be free from air.

Obigin of the Dagger in the London Civio Arms. — The dagger was first quartered
on the city arms of London from the circumstance of Wat Tyler being killed in Smith-
*eld, in 1381, bj Sir William Walworth, the Lord Mayor of London.

Passing Bell. — The original purpose of the passing bell was to announce to a neigh-
- bourhood, in which a particular individual lay sick, the period when the soul was, as it
were, passing out of the body, so that the dying person might have the benefit of their
prayers.

The Two Sicilies — The country designated the Two Sicilies is composed of Naples
(in the southern part of Italy) and the Island of Sicily. Naples contains 31,595 square
■tiles, and 6,886,000 inhabitants ; the island of Sicily contains 10,000 square miles, and
2,231,000 inhabitants.

The Woolsack. — The woolsack on which the Lord Chancellor sits in the House of
I*ords is a large square bag of wool, without back or arms, covered with red cloth.
"Wool was the first staple commodity of England in the reign of Edward LUL, when the
woolsack was introduced.

" Bt Hook ob bt Crook." — This common expression originated thus : — Strongbow,
on entering Waterford Harbour, observed a castle on one shore and a church on the other.
Inquiring what they were, he was told it was the Castle of Hook and the Church of Crook.
41 Then," said he, "we must take the town by Hook or by Crook."

Alnwick Frsbmaeship. — The manner in which persons are endowed with the freedom
•of the town of Alnwick, in Northumberland, is for the candidate to jump into a certain
fairy bog up to his armpits. Ring John imposed this custom upon the townsmen, in their
charter, as a punishment for not mending the road, — his Majesty having fallen into this
T«ry hole, and stuck there in state till be was relieved.

HoRfit's Hoofs. — The hoof of a horse is made up of a series of thin layers, or leaves
-of horn, about 500 in number, nicely fitted to each other, and forming a lining to the foot
itself. Then there are as many more layers belonging to what is oalled the "coffin bone,*
and fitted into this ; and these are elastic. Thus the weight of the horse rests on as many
elastic springs as there are layers in his four feet — about 4,000, serving not only for the
•easy conveyance of the horse's own body, but for whatever burden may be laid upon him.

VARIETIES.

A Pbdftbb's Toast. — u Women! — second only to the press in the dissemination of

E*wsn

Invention fob Attbactino Rain. — A gentleman who resides near Bodton, Meehlea-
bnrg county, Va., has aspired to a new science — that of controlling the clouds, in order to
cause it to rain at will. With a view of attaining this end, he has built a " rain-tower, 1 *
30 feet in diameter at the base, which size it retains to the height of 40 feet. To this
neigh t it contains fonr flues, each 7 feet in diameter. The number of flues is then reduced
to two, which run up 20 feet higher, the top of the structure reaching an altitude of 60
feet. The modus operandi of causing rain to fall is as follows The flues are filled with
4ry pine wood, which is set on fire, and which is kept up until the desired effect be pro-
duced on the elements. His theory is that the great heat produced in the air above the
m tower" will cause the clouds to concentrate over it, when plenty of rain will fall in that
widnity.

* Memorabilia— Things worth remembering.

Digitized by

rI6 POITRY.— MARJUAGb, DEATH.

Adttce on the Testh. — The teeth should be fairly used. By this I mean not made to
perform the duties of crackers for nuts, experimented on to ascertain their strength, or
by the ladies to rival scissors in cutting thread: for rest assured — in every case, more
particularly -the last — the party ha\ing recourse to such practices will surely some day
roe them, the teeth so unwittir ffly injured being always the fir-t to pnrt company from
their fellows. Those who indulge in such or similar habits may truly be called the
denttetfr friends. Cleanliness is absolutely essential for the preservation of the teeth, and
they should be well brushed at least morning and evening, that any feculence which may
T>e attached to them, either during sleep from the stomach or bv dav from meals, may not
be allowed permanently to adhere, — causing firstly discolouration, then tartar, and "sub-
seqUently, if I may so express myself, undermining the constitution of one or more, as
from their positions they may be more or less liable to corrosion. The person who
habituates him or herself to any extent to hot soups, tea, or other drink-? assuredly rivals
the friend to the dentist just named. Brushes for the teeth should be -of medium sub-
-Stanoe of bristle; and those made on what is railed the penetrating principle are best. A
brush properly selected (not too hard) may be used by children five ) ears of age every
morning; and by being made part and parcel of the general ablution, and thus directing
habitual attention to the teeth, a useful and cleanly habit will be engendered, which will
probably ensure for them proper care through life." — Hayes,

POETRY.

THE WORLD'S JUBILEE.

k ! ten thousand thousand voices
Sing the song of jubilee :
Earth, through all her tribes, rejoices,—

Broke her long captivity.
Hail, Emmanuel I— Great Deliverer !

HaU, Emmanuel l praise to Thee t
Now the theme, in pealing thunders,

Through the universe is rung!
Now, in gentlet tones, the wonders
Of redeeming grace are sung.

Wider now, and louder rising,

$i|ellA fttyi poarstb/ enraptured strain t
Earth's unmunbered tongues comprising j

Hark! the Conqueror's praise again.
Bail, Emmanuel!— Great Deliverer

Stones shall speak, if we refrain :
-Thus, while heart and pulse are beating,

To His name let praise arise,
Till from earth* the soul retreating,

Joins the chorus of the skies t
Then In loftier, sweeter numbers,

We shall sing Emmanuel's psaise«
Freed from all that now encumbers.

Nobler songs our voices raise.
Hail, Emmanuel:— Great Deliverer!

JLive for ever in our lays !

While our. crowns of glory casting

At his feet, in rapture lost,
We, in anthems everlasting,

Mingle with th* angelic host.
But, till that great consummation —

That bright sabbath of mankind,—
Till each distant tribe and nation

Taste the bliss by God designed, —
Speed the Gospel ! Let its tidings

Gladden every human mind !
Be its silver trumpets sounded—

Let the joyous echoes roll,
Ull a sea of bliss unbounded

Spreads o'er e&rth from pole to pole t

Then ?hall come the great Messiah,

In millennial glory crowned ;
M Israel's hope," and " Kanh's desire,'*

Now triumphant and renowned.
Hail, Messiah ! Reign for ever !

Heaven to earth reflects the sonnd:
Heaven and earth, with all their regions,

At his footstool prostrate fall ;
Heaven and earth with all their legions,

Crown Emmanuel Lord of all t

Da. Rapplbs.

Mark ikd — At Lehi City, on Saturday, the 28th of October, by Elder J. Taylor, Mr. Edwin A. Goodwin
and Miss Anna Harwood, both of Lehi City.

Died— In G. S. L. City, Martha Clark, wife of Stephen Hunter, and daughter of John and Mary Clark,
late of Crassway Green, Worcestershire, England, aged 28 years.

C0NTENT8.

Views of" Mormomsm" and the ** Mormons"... 1 Memorabilia 15

History of Joseph Smith 4 Varieties 1$

Editorial —Introductory Address— Emigration. Poetry .-»Tb.e World's Jubilee r ... MM ..........

—Arrivals 8 M;irri..ge .. .. 16

Tokens of Divinity in * Monuonism" 10 Death '. - ~. • 16

Summary u:' News and Passing Events 14

LIVERPOOL:

£j)ITED AND PUBLISHED 1ST GEORGE Q. OAWWOW, 42, ISMWQTOsT.

LONDON :

XO&ftAM AT TUB I/ATTWlrDAY SAJNTS'dOOK DEPOT, 30, PLORBNCB STRBKT, CEOSS STRJUT, IfMlf OTOJfj

AND ALL B0OESBLLEB8.

raiKTID BY JAMBS AND NEPHEW, 51, SOUTH JOHN STREET, UYBBPOOt,

Digitized by

Google

THE UXXnuniTi SAIMTS*

MILLENNIAL STAR.

f*Jk %oi$ej£aU. come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations:
e vOl plead with all Jteth; he vttl give them that are wicked to the eword, eaUh the Lord."—

Saturday, January 12, 18*1.

Prtoe 0»e*m*

rj^08 Of J'WHtHOOTSM" AM© THE " MORMONS."

TOff H.-I-ZHB "MORMON"
FOUKDBBS.

Bnbold, th» —ptrt.f onattsn d the iattwsdsya
~~ " " * r and stupendous work begin j
I yet shall catch Us rays,
i thewdndroos srtsaball ling*.

EMpIRE-

• WWt *fce promised, dittoed, oboten boy,
fbo Maul to manhood's mightiness attain l
lad tttrtfed Millions, wondeitef, soon shall cry ,
Grant tnpbMMndiag lasatrs come, again !

Hiring opened oar views, by intro-
aaciBg a llormonism" and the "Mor-
noons m " ihe wnnder of the age," we
irill .take our second view of this " strange
n+ople in their character of empire-
TOtap)*BS. Whether this character fits
tbem or not will be seen as our views of
them multiply and open before us.

It is unquestionably an ambitious title
that we havegWento the Saints, and a
high destiny that we claim for them in
we character of empire-founders. But we
cannot understand this people, nor their
religion* nor their instincts, nor their
misafon, nor their destiny, nor the spirit
that moves^them, nor their actual history,
1 we view them in that character
ao nicely Jl3 them— namely, their
• of empire-founders.
"Mormonwrn" as

" Mormomsm as a mere
theology and belief, or to
e "Morons* aoeofdmg to

" rMStilftiiB*

the- eubjeot from a point of view that
takes in next to nothing of its fanmensfty,
and brings the Saints to a rule of measure-
ment that is altogether unfitting to theW
To look npon their stupendous religion
and wondrous faith as made up merely
of a few dead forms, venerable church
ceremonies, professions of belief, and
popular sanctimoniousness, which about
make up the sum of the most approved
religions of the day, is to take an alto-
gether fake yiew of " Mormonism M and
the " Mormons." To interpret their con-
versions according to the most approved
sectarian notion of getting converted hut
very imperfectly renders tne u Mormon"
philosophy of Joeing born again and be-
coming new creatures. That old things
do pass awav, and all things become new
to them, ana that they are m many senses
as if born again, to five their new and
peculiar life, there can be no question;
and they have from the beginning been
looked upon as a strange, peculiar, unlike-
everbody-else kind of people, as much so
as if they werel>emgs of another world.

They do in fact, then, become as new
creatures; but in $heir religious charac-
ter they bear very little analogy to the
orthodox churches of the day. While
they, estimate the present Christian nations
and sects at a rather low rate, and cherish
a certain repugnance to the wy tboqgta

Digitized by

Google

18 TOWS OF "KORMOHI8M" AND THI "MORMONS."

of being classified as pious people, ac-
cording to the specimens of sectarian
Christendom, yet they consider themselves
religious to the last degree. In fact,
according to their own peculiar type,
they are essentially a religious people,
with a religious object of life, a religious
mission to the world, a religious work to
perform, and a religious destiny to work
out; and so entirely are they of a re-
ligious type, that all the affairs of their
hves, even to the drawing of a handcart
in emigration, or plowing up the soil of
new settlements, are summed up by them
as so many items of their religion, and
so many parts of their service towards
God in the accomplishment of the great
vvork which he has given to them to per-
form. In their religious character, the
following illustrative passage of the Apos-
tle Peter may be happily applied to
them : —

" Bat ye are a chosen generation, a royal
priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar peo-
ple ; that ye should show forth the praises of
him who hath called you out of darkness
into bis marvellous light."

Indeed, the majority of the Latter-day
Saints would make no hesitation in affirm-
ing that the above passage will fit them
much better than it did their ancient
brethren and sisters, the Saints of former
days. Not that they would claim to be
better than their brethren and sisters of
former days : but they would decide that
the description of Peter is more applicable
to the Saints now than it was eighteen
centuries ago. Doubtless they are cor-
rect ; and were Peter and the Saints of
his day now on die earth, taking part
with their latter-day brethren and sisters,
io work out the latter-day mission, and
build up the latter-day kingdom, both he
and they would decide that, with a much
closer and more literal application, he
could declare them to be u a chosen
generation, a royal priesthood, an holy
i^Uion, a peculiar people; that ye should
bow fortn the praises of him who hath
called you out of darkness into his mar-
vellous light;" and he could now also add,
who hath called you unto the marvellous
work of building up the millennial king-
lorn, and to the unfolding of a divine and
ultimately universal empire.

Nor must it be imagined that the
Saints look upon this view m the spiritual-
zing light of modern theology, in which

facts are lost and realities explained away
and converted into meaningless nothings.
They would apply the descriptive passage
of Peter, with the above additions, in the
most literal and matter-of-fact sense pos-
sible.

We must, then, consider the Saints is
a different type of religious character to
that of the numerous sects of modern
Christianity, who, although being of many
varieties of faith and broken into a thousand
fragments, have the same common type of
religious character. We must classifj
the Saints according to another type of
religious character, measure their religion
by a far more gigantic standard, look
upon their operations from an immensely
broader side of view than that of a mere
sect, understand the spirit that moves
them to be beyond comparison more
powerful and divine than those spirits
which agitate the sectarian bodies, and
look upon their work and destiny to be
altogether greater than the work and
destiny even of all the religious commu-
tes of Christendom, from the Church of
Borne to the last fragment of dissenting
Protestants.

In taking views of "Mormonism" and
the " Mormons," the thoughtful observer
will soon discover that this " peculiar
people" must not be measured by the
ordinary rule of religious communities,
but must be given a far higher classifica-
tion, and considered in a much broader
type of character than that of a mere
religious fragment. A social philosopher,
after a competent study of his subject and
a careful investigation of their rise, pro-
gress, developments, and history, would
pronounce their type of character to be
essentially national, and to involve in its
very being the germs, growths, and un-
foldings of the national genius. He
would pronounce the community from
its very birth with only six members to
be in fact a nation, and not a mere
religious body. It is true he would see
the community at its birth a very small
new-born nation, yet in fact a nation.
Even as he would look upon a new-born
male infant as the type of the future man,
and could imagine that tiny, new-born,
man to embody a great master-spirit
destined in his manhood to move the
world, and become the soul of a new
empire and a new order of things, so he
could see in that new-born community of
Saints the type of a nation. As he tew

Digitized by

TOWS OF MOEMONttaf AN* THE "XMafOKS/

19*

-fher afJM the character of this new-
ten nation, and followed it through a
Jbw stages of its growth, he would dis-
cover h to be a type of the highest
national order/; and if he was a prophet
well as a philosopher, he would be
yved to predict for it a wonderful des-
tiny as a growing, rising, dominant
empire of the future. In fact, he would
olaeafy "Mormonism" as an empire-
fw Aiwf g religion, and rank the "Mor-
jnons" as religious empire-founders of
the first order.

A social philosopher who had thus
studied the subject of " Mormonism" and
the "Mormons," and followed this won-
derful and peculiar people through the
stages of their growtn and eventral his-
tory, would decide that the community of
JSaints must not be viewed as one of the
churches or fragments of the old, worn-
out, sectarian Christendom, but must be
viewed as a young, vigorous, fast-growing
refigkms empire of a new Christian dis-
ncsiMtion; in fact, that it must be viewed
.es the soul of the future new world and
nmfolder of the divine latter-day civiliza-
tion and kingdom. Such a man would
decide that, though a very peculiar people
of the theocratic type, and full of a
.powerful wonder-working faith, the Saints
are not a lot of fanatics built up upon old
superstitions and traditions of ages. He
.would moreover see that they are con-
verted and moulded into a community,
and moved onward through the stages of
their eventful growth towards their stu-
pendous destiny, by a spirit very different
m its kind and in its operations to those
jnany At- ft* 5 ^ sectarian spirits that are
abroad in society, as seen in those spiritual
manifestations, delusions, and promiscuous
revivals so common in America and
ttagUtd Be the spirit that moulds and
• the "Mormon" community of
kind it may— be it good or bad,
a has so wonderfully, and which will
still more wonderfully manifest itself,— be
the relative order of that spirit higher Or
lower than any other spirit of the times,
there is one fact which even the most an-
: or sceptical must acknowledge
iy, that the spirit associated with
nomsm" and the " Mormons"
\ its elements into a solid, wonderful
eifsnuaation, cements its members in a
enum which even the most desperate
effort* of extermination has been unable
te devolve from the birth of the com-

munity to the time the United State*
attempted to break for ever the body and
union of the Saints, and in fact a spirit
which travels neither to religious, social,
nor national disunion, but which travels
on the great high road of national growth
— travels up the path of empire-founding..
It is not, however, the design of this view
to show the meaning and force of the
spirits, influences, and tendencies of the
present society to national dissolution,
social non-famUyism, and religious secta-
rianism, nor, on the other hand, to draw
comparison between such and the ten-
dency to organization, brotherhood, pa-
triarchalism, and social and national
growth, as illustrated by the community,
of Saints. We simply here refer to
these points to show the character of the
u Mormons " as empire-founders, and the
tendency of "Mormonism" as an empire-
founding religion.

In consequence of not understanding
and properly appreciating the Saints;
peculiar type of character, and not looking;
at their religion from a proper point of
view, they have appeared to the religious
world strangely unlike the popular ideal
of a religious community ; and " Mor-
monism " has often been spoken of as a.
strange mixture of the religious and
secular element. Of course, in speaking;
of this " strange mixture," the would-be-
knowing ones sprinkle it bountifully with
such expressions as "fanaticism," " worldlj
shrewdness," &c. But these descriptive
marks of the " strange people" and their
"strange religion" are only so manj
signs that the Saints belong to the na-
tional type. Their organizations, growths^
and operations embrace not only the
ecclesiastical order and spiritual element*
but involve also all the elements and
conditions of social and national existence*
This " strange mixture" of the religious
and social elements showb signs of the
tendency of the oommunity of Saints to a.,
national being, impressed with all the.
features of the national type, and putting
forth the varied and numerous manifesta-
tions of national life and activity. But
these would-be-knowing ones, who talk
of the "strange mixture" of the religious .
and secular elements of " MormonisnV^il
are such poor social philosophers as pot-
to realise that all these strange signs and
" peculiar features " of the oommunity of
Saints are in reality so many signs that
they belong to the national type, andtbtfc.

Digitized by

Google

vmwr op "teofcHosinc* and the « ifoRitoirs."

they possess the spirit and instincts and
show the manifestations of religions
empire-founders. But whether the lan-
guage and force of those signs he appre-
ciated or not, they are strong evidences —
aye, positive proof that the Saints do
belong essentially to the classification
that we have given them. Of the Church
of Latter-day Saints it might with much
force be said, That Church was born a (
nation, and in its maturity and ultimate '
course, will involve national maturity and
a national destiny.

We are aware that neither the Saints
nor their religion will measure by the
measurement of a sect, and the majority
of sectarians will consider them a strange
unlike-other- religious kind of people. But
this is also so much evidence that the
Saints and their religion belong to a dif-
ferent order of religious classification;
and we pronounce their type, as a re-
ligious community, to be a national one
of the highest order.

The specific order to which the com-
munity of Saints belong is the theocratic
order. In this we cannot fully and
specially view the Latter-day Church of
Saints as a theocracy ; but we will mark
their specific type of character before
closing View II. of u Mormonism " and
the " Mormons.''

The community of Saints, then, be-
longs to the theocratic order. A theo-
cracy is a divine nation, or a nation of
dirine origin. It embraces the entire

Seople ; and in its constitution there are
imilies, patriarchal institutions, marriage
relations of the sexes, social systems,
social life, and social relations, ecclesias-
tical orders and services, national institu-
tions and administration, and, in fine,
all that can be said to properly belong to
a nation of divine origin. At the head
of such a nation is God; and Prophets
and Priests and Elders are the Lord's
mouthpieces and servants, and the law-
givers and judges and rulers of the
nation.

The Israelites in the days of Moses
represented theocracy ; and in that re-
ligious community of the highest order

t ■

there was the sane strange mixture ef
the secular and religi ous dements, and
the same peculiarities which characterise
the community of Latter-day Saint*.
This latter-day theocracy, then, is of just
such a character as the theocracy of
ancient Israel. Hence the building up
of cities and temples, their gatherings
into one body, creating new settlements,
rounding states, migrating across seas
and land, — in snips, drawing handcarts,
or driving waggons, — or cultivating the
earth and making the wilderness aa a
fruitful field, and the desert the abode of
civilization and industrial activity, are all
so many parts of the religious life and
duties of the Saints, and so many develop-
ments and features of " Mormonism.*
All these of course make up that .strange
mixture of the religious and secular
elements which to many is a strange
problem, having to them such an en-
religious- like appearance. But all these
strange features and " Mormon" de-
velopments and peculiar religious fife-
show the theocratic type, and are so-
many signs that the "Mormons" are refi-
gious empire-founders, who are mat
working out their mission of building up a
theocratic nation.

The Saints will not compare with any
of the fragments of modern Christendom;
but they do strongly resemble the empire-
founding Israelites ; and their religion is
like that which came from their divine
lawgiver, Moses, and of which Priests,
Elders, and Prophets were pillars and
ornaments. But we will leave the strong
likeness between Former-day Israel and.
Latter-day Israel, to be more fully brought
out in a future view, and close by affirm-
ing that no people, from the beginning of
human society, ever manifested so strongly
the instincts of empire-founding as the
Latter- day Saint?, nor any people whose
history so strongly illustrated it, or who
travelled to it so fast. In this affirma-
tion we do not even except Israel of
old, whose very religion, genius, mission,
and destiny were comprehended in reli-
gious empire-founding.

Optical Delusion. — Hold a paper cone with its small aperture directed forward, and
Its base against one of the eyes, having it so supported as to rest between the thumb aoi
hand. On directing both eyes forward to a distance, the hand will appear as if perforated
through the -centre, and: distant objects will seem ts be seen by the eye immediately be*-
nhid the hand, as if a hole had actually been bored throogfa It.

Digitized by

HIBTOBT OF JOSBf H , uqt>H( • gf
HISTOEY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

(Continued from page 8.)

[March, 1844.]

Tuesday, 5th. I saw Hiram Kimball
at Bryant * store, and gave him a lecture
<m his resisting the ordinances of the
city, by telling the captains of the steam-
boats they need not pay wharfage, &c.

Rode oat with Emma.

At two* p.m., met with the City Coun-
cil. I copy the minutes : —
"special session.

March 5, 1844, 2 p.m.

Karnes of members called. Quorum pre-

- Mayor fttattd that he had oalled the
Oovneil, because that when the Wharf-
wnntfir called on the steamboats for wharf,
ugev the ofieers of the boats declined
paying, assigning as a reason that II! ram

KjaubaU and Morrison had told thtm

that (hey owned the land, and they need
pay no wharfage to the city; and he called
taw Ceunefl to know their views on the
•abject, as he had told; Hiram Kimball that
ho should see the ordinances executed ; and
IT the boats did not pay, he should blow
them up and all those who upheld them in
i safe Hug the ordinances. • Every measure
la taken to palsy the hands of the officers of
the city; and I want to know how to remedy
tan evil, or whether I shall abandon the
ordinances, dec'

Alderman Harris said that it was the
Mayor** doty to enforce the ordinances of
the efty, and that no man has a right to
bnUd a wharf without leave from the City
Council.

Councillor Phelps suggested the pro-
priety of licensing those who owned
si has t en to collect a tax for the landing of
Use beat.

Alderman 'Wells concurred.

Mayor said the land on the water's edge
wna a street.

Alderman Wells suggested the propriety
of having- the street worked as soon as may
be.

Oonnefltor Phelps said, if Water-street
extended round the city, then Kimball had
been constructing a nuisance.
' Mayor spoke id explanation, and said that
Kimball held, If the city would make a wharf;
An would give up what he had done.

Councillor O. Spencer said he wished the'
Mayo* to execute* the law of the city.

CnnjistUot B. Young otmourred. *

Councillor W. Phelps proposed that
Water- street be worked the whole length.

Councillor Taylor said, • I ge in for exe-
cuting the laws of the city.'

Marshal stated that Morrison laid he had
a bond for a deed to low-water mark, audi
the city could not take his personal rights*
and he objected to the boats paying wharf-
age.

Councillor O. Pratt said, if Kimball or
Morrison or any one else has built wharves
since that street was laid out, they could
get no damages.

Councillor Daniel Spencer considered the
ordinance passed good, and it ought to oet
enforced.

Councillor H. Smith believed it was out
duty to stand up to- the ordinances.

Motioned by B. Yonng that the City
Council instruct the Mayor to order the
Supervisor to open Water-street from
Joseph Smith's store north to the north
line of the city.

Councillor Phelps approved of the motion*,
that the road might be cleared from rafts,
and the rafts might also pay license.

Councillor Warrington said the upper
stone-house was in the street.

Mayor said that was the greatest nuisance
there was in the street.

Councillor O. 8pencer was in favour.

Motion carried unanimously.

The Governor having refused to iseue
commissions to the Aldermen elect of the
city, Councillor Whitney inquired who were
Aldermen.

The Mayor explained that if the Governor
refuses to grant a commission, it does net
disqualify the officer elect from acting in hi*,
office ; consequently, there is no virtue in
the commission, but the virtue of the efflon
consists in the election.

Councillor Young thought they were
Aldermen all the time or none of the
time.

Mayor said he wanted all the Aldersnun

to be added to the City Council.

Alderman Wells said he considered, the
election made the Aldermen, and not tlm-
oommission.

Mayor said if he had been elected Alder-
man and filed his bonds, he would aetaa
Councillor and Magistrate."

Noah Packard sent a memorial to the
Governor, Senate, and House of Eepre-
sentativeB of Massachusetts, his native
State, setting; forth in detail thenuAtw

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

lags of the Saints in Missouri, and their
owjwalsiou from that State.

Wednesday, 6th. Went to my Office,
and thence with brother Phelps to Mr.
Bryant's, to see him about bis uniting
with Hiram Kimball and others to resist
the ordinances of the city.

The Neighbour publishes the name of
Itmm Arlington Bennett as candidate for
Vioe-President.

Thursday, 7th. A splendid day; wind
from the south-west.

MINUTES OF A GENERAL MEETING.

{Reported by Elders Willard Bichards and
Wilford Woodruff.]

m X vast assembly of Saints met at the
Temple of the Lord at nine o'clock, a.m.,
■by a special appointment of President Joseph
Smith, for the purpose of adrandiig the
progress of the Temple, &o.

The Patriarch, Hyrum 8mith,was present;
wlso, of the Twelve Apostles, B. Young,
JL C. Kimball, P. P. Pratt, O. Pratt, W.
JUohards, W. Woodruff, John Taylor, and
sQeorge A. Smith ; also the Temple Com-
mittee and about eight thousand Saints.

A hymn was sung by the ohoir ; prayer
by Elder P. P. Pratt, when another hymn
was sung.

Patriarch Hyrum Smith took the stand
mad said, ' The object of the meeting is to stir
sip your minds by way of remembrance.
It is neoesary to have a starting-point,
which is to build the Temple.

With the assistance of the sisters, we
expect to get the nails and glass ; and with
.the assistance of the brethren, we expect to
4o the rest. I will proclaim in public and
in private that the sisters bought the glass
-and nails by penny subscription. Choose
je this day whom ye will serve.

We shall call upon this rest multitude for
a donation to buy powder and fuse-ropes to
blast the rocks in the quarry. We want
the brethren to at least do as much as the
misters.

We do not intend to finish the Nauroo
House this season, bnt to take all the hands

•and finish the Temple this summer, or the
walls of it, and get the roof on by Decem-
ber, and do off the inside next winter ; and
about a year from this spring we will
dedicate it.

We can do anything we undertake. We

~Aave power, and We can do great things.
In fire years to come the work will progress
more than it has done for ten years

said we should perform 'a mar-
WUosu work and a wonder.' I don't won-
esfar he said so, if he saw this ?ast muUituds;

and I think this people is abundantly able te>
build this Temple, and much depends upom
it for our endowments and sealing powers $ .
and many blessings dspend upon it.

President Joseph 8mith then arrived*,
took the stand, arose, and after requesting
Orson Pratt to come to the stand and take>
his post, said —

I do not know whether the object of the>
meeting has been told you or not. I apolo-
gise for not ooming sooner.

I hare had so much on my mind since I
saw you, that I hardly know where to b agist
or what to say; but one of the grancY
objects I had in view in calling this meeting
was to make a few remarks relative to tho
laws and ordinances of the city and taw
building of the Temple.

The reason I want to speak of the dty
ordinances is that the officers hare difficulty
in administering them.

We are Republicans, and wish to have the*
people rule; but they must rule in right-
eousness. Some would complain with what.
God himself would do.

Tea laws or ordinances are enacted by the>
City Council on petition of the people ; ansl
they can all be repealed, if they wish it, and
petition accordingly.

At all events, the people ought not to-
complain of the officers ; but if they are not
satisfied, they should complain to the law-
makers by petition.

I am instructed by the City Council to-
tell this people that if there is any law
passed by us which you dislike, we will
repeal it, for we are your servants. Those
who complain of our rights and chasten
are wicked and corrupt, and the Devil is fas
them.

The reason I oalled up this subject is, we
have a gang of simple fellows here who do
not know where their elbows or heads are.
If you preach virtue to them, they will oppose -
that; or if you preach a Methodist God to>
them, they will oppose that ; and the seme
if you preach anything else ; and if there is
any case tried by the authorities of Nauvoo,
they want it appealed to Carthage to tho
Circuit Court. Mr. Orsimus F. Bostwick'a
case had to go to Carthage. Our lawyers
will appeal anything to the Circuit Court.

I want the people to speak out and say
whether such men should be tolerated ansl
supported in our midst; and I want to
know if the citlsens will sustain me whoa
my hands are raised to heaven for and in
behalf of the people.

From this time I design to bring sank
characters who act against the Interests of
the city before a committee of the whole;
and I will have the voice of the people*
which is republican, and is likely to be the
foioe of God; and as long as I hare a

Digitized by

ihstoby of wpra siiim

Uigm to apeak, I will expose the* iniquity
cf the lawyers and wicked men.

I fear not their boiling orer, nor the
boning oyer of hell, their thunders, nor the
lightning of their forked tongues.

If these things cannot be put a stop to,
I will giro such men into the hands of the
IGssouri mob. The hands of the officers of
the city falter and are palsied by their con-
duct.

There is another person I will speak
about. He is a 'Mormon' — a certain man
who Bred here before we came here : the
two first letters of bis name are Hiram
Kimball. When a man is baptised and be-
comes a member of the Church, I hare a
light to talk about him, and reprore him in
-public or prirate, whenerer it is necessary,
cr he deserres it.

'When the city passed an ordinance to
collect wharfsge from steamboats, he goes
-and tells the captains of the steamboats that
tm owned the landing, and that they need
Jftot pay wharfage.

I despise the man who will betray you
with a kiss ; and I am determined to use up
each men, if they will not stop their opera-
tions. If tiiis is not true, let him come
forward and throw off the imputation.

When they appeal to Carthage, I will
appeal to this people, which is the highest
court. I despise the lawyers who hag on
lawsuits, and I would rather die a thousand
deaths than appeal to Carthage.

Kimball and Morrison say they own the
wharres; but the fact is, the city own them,
eftcty-four feet from high water mark,
from the printing office to the north limits
of the city is public ground, as Water-street
wans along the beach, and the beach belongs
to the dty, and not to indiriduals.

Another thing: I want to speak about
the lawyers of this city. I hare good feel-
fogs towards them; nerertheless I will
reprore the lawyers and doctors anyhow.
Jesus did, and erery Prophet has; and if I
am a Prophet, I shall do it: at any rate, I shall
do it, for I profess to be a Prophet.
1 The maritime laws of the United States
tare ceded up the right to regulate all tolls,
wharfage, &c, to the respectire corpora-
tions who have jurisdiction, and not to
indiriduals.

Our lawyers hare read so little that they
are ignorant of this: they hare nerer stuck
their nosee into a book on maritime law in
their Ores ; and, as Pope says —

'Shallow draught* intoxicate the brain :

Brink deep, or taste not the Pierian apring.'
. Our city lawyers are fools to undertake
to practise law when they know nothing
about it.

* I waat from this time forth erery tool to
-ftaj ** home and let the steamboats and

captains alone. No ressel could land any-
where, if subject to indiridual laws.

The Corporation owns the streets of the
city, and hare as much right to tax the
boats to make wharres as to tax oitisens to
make roads. Let erery man in this city
stay at home, and let the boat-captains,
peace-officers, and erery body alone.

How are we to keep peace in the city, de-
fend ourselres against mobs, and keep
innocent blood from being shedf By
striking a blow at everything that rises up
in disorder.

I will wage an eternal warfare with those
that oppose me while I am labouring in
behalf of the city. I wQl disgrace erery
man by publishing him on the house-top,
wbx> will not be still and mind his own
business. Let them entirely alone, and they
will use themselres up.

I was rlslted by an old gentleman this
morning, who told me that the spirit of
mobooracy was about subsiding. A oouple
of merchants in this dty (I will not tell
their names,) hare told the country people
not to bring butter, eggs, &c, to Nauroo
for sale ; at least, so the people abroad say.

Now, if they will not let the people bring
in their produce, the people will not buy
their goods; and the result will be, the
merchants will get the spirit of mobooracy.

Another man (I will not call his name,)
has been writing to the New York Tribune
some of the most disgraceful things possible
to name. He says, in that article, that
there are a great many donations to the
Temple which hare been appropriated to
other purposes.

His object eridently was to stigmatize
the Trustee and excite prejudice against us
abroad. But I pledge myself that whoerer
has contributed any old shoes, harness,
horses, waggons, or anything else, if he will
come forward, I will show that erery farth-
ing is on the book and has been appro-
priated for the building of the Temple.

I pledge myself that if he finds the first
farthing that we cannot show where it ha>
been appropriated, I will giro him my heal
for a football.

He also states that the Temple cannot be
built, it costs so mpch. Who does not
know that we can put the roof on the
building this season, if we had a mind to?
By turning all the means from the Nauroo .
House and doubling our diligence, we can
do it.

There are men in our midst who are •
trying to build up themselres at our expense,
and others who are watching for iniquity,
and will make a man an offender for a word.
The best way for such men is to be still.
If I did not lore men, I would not reprore
them* but would work mthadatkMtacjde.

i-AiMWto tiftt ttthor oTjjhe artfele1al<Me. MsHedl fac^irtd if hawastthi iw)
the TVtfcfw, wed it, and yon will tee for I No; I do notiraowyo* ; jompo, a itlt^Hi
yOuffelrei. Ho is sot a lawyer ; bo ii I But I will root myself mod -give-wsyf ftc
nearer' related to o doctor— o small men; I ethers.

XT* U ctmtimud.)

THE LATTBR-DAT SAINTS' MILLENNIAL ST AS.

8ATU*2>Ar> JANVAMYU, mi.

Tar Droit* Now Befoee Us.— By reference to our Editorial artiele 4n
another page, upon the " Changes and Appointments for 1861" it Will be
Sean that the Presidency here, with a view to relieve the brethren who bnv« laboured
long" in the ministry throughout these lands, and to better carry out the instooelioM
and wishes of the First Presidency, have been led to make some changes in ihe
Munistry. The Saints who have watched the Spirit manifested through the ilrst
President of the Church in his late counsels amd instructions to the JMers^enne*
fail to have perceived that he has been powerfully moved upon to set forth in ipWft-
nets, the pure principles of righteousness which should govern them in their labours
in the ssauistry. He has expressed the detercunatjon to have these instruction*
eaHtalfeJttt'faf die Elders. The Presidency here feel the weight of the obligation
resting upon them to put in force his wishes, realizing that it Is theinnid of.the
Lord, and that in doing this the entire Church in these lands, officers and xnembecs,
will be benefited. Every one who is to any extent conversant with the history of
the people of God in these days, and has a belief in the divine origin of >the<3to*pel
obeyed and declared by them, must be aware that the only path the Saints can safely
pursue is that pointed out by the Prophet of God. What was true of ancient Israel
under the guidance of the Prophet Moses is true of modern Israel under the
guidance of the Prophet Brigham. Whenever they listened to his counsel arid tne
commandments given by the Lord through him to them, they were preserved And
prospered; but when they disregarded his counsels and hardened, their hearts to
disobey Us instructions, they had neither safety nor prosperity.

Among other changes that we have been led to make, it has been deemed proper
to alter to some extent the duties of the Pastors, or as they are now> known, District
Presidents. Instead of the Conference Presidents making -their reports and payksg
their monies as heretofore to the Pastors, we wish them to be sent tfirect to tills
Office. After canvassing this matter in all its lights, we are of the opinion that this
change will be attended with beneficial Jesuits. We think it- will be less eatppaei iff,
asirwHl leave the Distinct Presidents free to attend to the other duties of their
calling In any portion of the field, without colnpeffing'them to repair at the end of
every month ta their stated place of business* besides freeing them feom many little
expenses Ooaoected at present with 'the making art and fbrw4Bdmgiof the*iepert*af
the Ctatftofeoces in their Districts. The business of this Officenury be incrasnd
somewhat c ^Uns ohange, but not to so. great an extent as to be too hupdensome.
We desire the District: Presidents to be freedtfirom ererythmgihat will ourtsei ( their
mmMnem tn the inftustermg of the- word of ftfe to the people. Instead of havhie; a
home in some particular place , in their Districts, where they would spend ajfoflgt
portion ottbcsx timet it is expected that their, tos** will Jbe nk i i is w t a»e rr is y ssej ft ee
■i | i aslii n s fl as are smost nee ded, nering t fea*ad s<sjssssjsisje/ otsjry a irf ** * 1 ef tie*

, tartatrirfsfftttMlm Tigfiaaooin atteiic^ to^thahrtrtsU of to work of
4^entiu*ted tolJiemend to tb^e tu^«rlb«ir predUenof, Th©«gh they will he
fcufie^from the business of tefitmitting the rsports sadfimdsof their Distriotr*o
tjhat O^yet wewisb thorn, as they visit their OoiAreiK»8, tah^e occesa to the
owh and reports,^*** to keep tlxxnaelves mmrmed at to their «e«lkio». We shall
ftirrtti sash TTtntVinf Prrmrtsnt Tilth ■ monthly report from this Office of the iiii-ussi
rsesrred from each -^f the Cfcmf erenow of his District during that period, which he
4an from time to time sompare with the Conference books. Tbisis a doty whioh
veibai exfert Mm to attend to.

A* it 5i now expected by the Firsts Presidency of the Omreh that the Priesthood
of this Mission will sustain themselves, independent of the Tithing and other Church
tarns, it if desirable that the expenses of the Elders should be as light as possible.
4latf ;ifce fitting add other Church' funds might be kept intact for the 1 uses
ft* which they were designed, and the" Saints in these lands be cleared from tfce
^srpense brmging the Elders from and returning them to Zionj President Young
«enlnaeikd draining of a MisstoiiaryPund. Through that fund those wbc have not
*fcb means to fit ' themselves 'out are furnished with sufficient to carry them to then?
Mis of labour and to pay their expenses en their reton; and if their families,
^during their absence, should ran short of means to provide for themselves, they am
*2**vfcfed l fer. <M»> arrangement tabs* these expenses from the shoulders 'of the
faints jfeeoad, where they hare hitherto mainly rested, and places them open the
flaaiti scheme.

sTtee ffttisai -no longer have any n eoe ss St} to oafrupe* the Saints "for donations far
any of these purposes : food and raiment and means to enable them to attend to
Hheir a^istinf inamwtoever assded, are the wants, they will need to have supplied.
They mnst dispense with superfluities. They must not freqnenir places of ■nrsamaais,
^dn^Mpawysmd Hke> Whateverwieans tt»y may be blessed whbsfaeuSdbevifcely
used, and, if more than sufficient to supply 1 their own ' economical wants, should be
devoteoV to gathering the poor nod otherwise promoting the cause in which ware
engaged, 'Iney should not be lovers of money. Our missions to these lands are
not for the purpose 6f accumulating it, but to save the souls of men. The manner in
which we can best accomplish this should engross our entire attention. President
Toung indulged in the hope that the establishment of the Missionary Fund would
have this effect upon the Elders, as it would relieve them from care respecting, them-
selves and families, anoVwould enable them to concentrate all their thoughts ^n the
AatkamL theta mission* If .it shem\d have this effect (and who can doubt but it
will?) -share will be an inoreaseef faith and •power nmong the Elders that will be
nlpm fstteone end of oto Mission to the other,; Tl* character of tlu*BMer»Wfllbe
ssfvased. The Saints wiH ^el the ohange, and their confidence in the Priesthood
ywW %r tnlmlttrieg: the world 1 wfil feeh the ohange, and their attention vril be
directed to the^iruth .

-it is not too much' to anticipate that groat results wB follow a course of dris kind,
if adopted bv the Elders', tye hope that all, without an exception, will adopt it; and
soak to enter rMy into the spirit that animates the authorities at home and dictates
their counsels and instructions. .

We wish the Presidents of . Conf erenow to keep a strict account of all funds
■ AlBitefl lit their Conferences (or rents, Elders' expenses, &c, &c., and how and upon
whom expended, and forward a quarterly statement of the same to this Office. We
sfn asfr s MftH^^ ^expee4,tbe .filders torfeel

ttesnstrres exraaQy aooountnUe. > OQ gK

Ihtebmting Oorbbspokmekcs. — The excellent dish of news tarnished us hv
the letter of brother Wm. H. Hooper, the Delegate for Utah to the U. S. Con-
gress, which will be found in another page, cannot fail to prove interesting to oar
leaders. The eyes of tb» world are directed to the United States at the present
time, and every event that transpires there is watched with interest by ally but par*
tioularly by the Latter-day Saints. We can see the hand of the Lord in all that is
taking place there, and it is interesting to watch the development of events precisely
ja foretold by the Lord through his servants many years ago.

We sincerely hope brother Hooper will find nothing interfere with the carrying
out of the design he entertains of writing to us weekly. His communications will
always be received with pleasure.

Changes and Appointments fob 1861.— The following changes and appoint*
ments in the Ministry have been made, after serious deliberation and a proper coo*
aideration of the circumstances surrounding the various Branches and Conferences
of this Mission. As will be seen, we have deemed it wise and expedient to release
all the Pastors, with one or two exceptions. They have been labouring in the
ministry in these lands for many years, without the privilege of ^gathering to Zion*
Now that the Mission is better supplied with experienced help from the Valley than
it has been for three years past, and the labours of these Elders can be spared, we wish
to see them emigrate to Zion. We cannot promise definitely that they shall go, but
we mean to do all in our power to assist them in going ; and we have every reason
to believe that they will second us in our wishes by doing all in their power to get
•away.

. Elder John L. Smith it appointed to sucoeed Elder Jabez Woodard In the presidency of
the Swiss and Italian Mission.

Elder John Brown is Appointed to snooted Elder John Cook in the presidency of the
. District comprising the London, Kent, and Essex Conferences.

Elder Milo Andrns is appointed to succeed Elder C. W. Penrose in the presidency of the Dis*
triot comprising the Birmingham, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, and Shropshire Conferences*

Elder John Kay is appointed to succeed Elder William Bayliss in the presidency of the
District comprising the Manchester, Liverpool, and Preston Conferences.

Elder David M. Stuart is appointed to succeed Elder George Teasdale in the presidency
of the District comprising the Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Dundee Conferences.

Elder James Brown, third, is appointed to succeed Elder David John in the presidency
of the District comprising the Nottingham, Leicestershire, and Derbyshire Conferences.

Elder Joseph F. Smith is appointed to succeed Elder Thomas Wallace in the presidency
of the District comprising the Sheffield, Bradford, Lincolnshire, and Hull Conferences.

Elder William Gibson is appointed to succeed Elder William Moss in the presideney of
the District comprising the Cheltenham, Herefordshire, and Worcestershire Conferences*.

Elder C. V. Spencer is appointed to succeed Elder Edward Hanham in the presidency
of the District comprising the Southampton, Beading, and Dorsetshire Conferences.

Elder B. H. Blackburn is appointed to succeed Elder William Jeff eries in the presidency
of the District comprising the Norwich and Bedfordshire Conferences.

Elder George Halliday is appointed to succeed Elder Willet Harder in the presidency
of the District comprising the South, Wiltshire, and LandVEnd Conferences.

Elder John 8. Gleason is appointed to succeed Elder Joseph Stanford in the presidency
of the District comprising the Newcastle, Durham, and Carlisle Conferences.

Elder William H. Dame is appointed to sucoeed Elder James McGhie in the presidency
of the Manchester Conference.

Elder Samuel Hergraves Is appointed to succeed Elder
U the Durham Conference.

TOUDM OF niTOOTT IN " H OMtONIttt."

r John lfsedhtm is Appointed to succeed Elder William H. Kelsty in the prstidsney
*f the Kent OonfertBee.

Sder 8. H. B. Smith is appointed to succeed Elder William Halls in the presidency of
fee Bradford Conference.

All Elders, now engaged in the ministry, not designated in the foregoing, will
their labours in their respeotire fields, subject to tbe provisions in the
\ given to the District and Conference Presidents.
It is oar wish that every retiring Elder do all in his power to leave his District or
Conference in such a condition that bis successor can assume the responsibfltiesv
thereof with satisfaction and pleasure, taking all pains to communicate every item of
i that will be of use to him in the magnifying of bis new duties.

AMAIA LYMAN, ) Presidents of the Church of Jesa*

Christ of Latter-day Saints in the
British Islands snd adjacent coun-
tries.

Am asa Lyman, ) :
Charles C. Rich, > !
George Q. Cannon.)

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMONISM."

BY liDim I. L. T. SABXISOir.

(CmUtmed Jrtm pagt 14.)

CHAPTER VI.

SCRIPTURAL STDENCE.

Mari$ Relationship to Deity.

From the demonstrations of Scripture
thai immortality is a natural continuation
*jf this state of existence, and that im-
jssortal beings are simply men and women,
hat with their attributes perfected, and
the powers of eternal life perfected within
their organisation, we move naturally up
atothe question as to what the Scriptures
amy respecting the true character of God
and the relationship which mankind hold
4a him.

But let not the reader suppose, because
we are treating now mainly of truths that
relate to a material world and to man's
bodily existence in the future, that "Mor-
moausm" teaches us to anticipate mate-
rial pleasures as the chief basis of our
future heaven. It must be understood
-that we are now simply treating of one
mortkm of truths that relate to God and
man. M Mormonism n has as much or
more to say of the spiritual pleasures of
a, future state as any system that preaches
•ejp ajpurely spiritual heaven could have;
kit it keeps its grasp on the opposite
drams as wclL And it has as much to
nay respecting the unutterable distance
i and God, his omnipresenoe
i concerning the simple

nets about him to which we are now
drawing attention.

The great difficulty that exists in the
way of mankind understanding that they
really are related to Deity lies principally
in the fact that they do not understand
the greatness of their own souls. Ages of
religious labour devoted mainly to making
man think himself as mean and con-
temptible a thing as possible, combined
with the constant spectacle of ignorance*
misery, and death ever before the eyes of
mankind, have crushed the spirit of man,
given rise to the creed that he is a noor
worm of the earth, and led him to think,
when he read in the Scriptures to the con-
trary, that such statements could not bo
true in their literal sense.

Another thing that makes it difficult at
first sight for mankind to believe in their
relationship to God arises from their mis-
conception of his true nature. They see
evidences of bis power thick around them
in every element and in every organ bad
being; that lives. They feel and see the
omnipresence of his power, and ooncmde
that an omnipresent being can bear no
relationship to themselves. Their error
consists in their mistaking the operations
of the Creator's Spirit for the Creator

Nothing is truly plainer than thati
life- producing power exists not only in all

Digitized by

Google

taram ov biympty m moiui aNisif. n

elsitamrreuiidsus, but in on very serves;
bat these manifestations are produced by
an. element, of life that proceeds from
Jehovah's abode, and is called his Spirit,
or the Holy Ghost. It is that life-giving
dement by which he operates throughout
all space. It controls all things, from the
veriest atom to the mightiest world.

E created thing is organized and pre-
to exist in harmony with the eternal
„ and because of the perfection of
these organizations, combined with the
power of this eternal Spirit, influence, or
element, the chain of life eternally pro-
ceeds. But the controller of this organ-
izing power is a celestial being, whom- we
are taught to call "Father, who exists
in the heavens in the form of man, and,
by the immensity of his wisdom and the
perfection of his organizations, holds the
key of all these eternal movements.

That intelligence, working through a
divinely- perfect organization, can govern
and control so much, may seem immense:
but let us look at an instance of the
power of organization on true principles,
even on an earthly scale. Go, for in-
stance, into some Government factory,
Where from fifty to a hundred machines
of various kinds are at work, all fed by
some central engine, to which they are
each attached by straps or bands. Be-
hold them all in flying operation, a thou-
sand wheels spinning at once,— every
machine hard at its peculiar work — one
drilling, another planing, another turn-
ing, and another crashing or stamping
the metal into shape, while each, attended
by its group of workmen, is working its
shotted material into shape with such
exactness that, when the various portions
produced by the various machines are
brought together, complete instruments of
warfare will be produced, capable of
spreading death and destruction all around.
<>ne man holds the key of all this moving
•power, by one turn of whoso hand at the
appropriate spot the whole whirling mass
of wheels, with every attendant operation,
cam be stopped, deadlocked and hushed at
once, and hundreds, and in some cases
thousands of men thrown useless on their
'bands, and kept so dependent on the will
'of this one individual.

Again: In a moment, by another
simple movement of this man, all is sud-
denly alive again : every strap, band, and
"wheel is in motion ; the furnace roars ;
4ba cwtfbbg, turning, hammering, and

planing all proceed; clashing and crush*

ing sounds fill the air ; every machine baa
become a thing of life ; and from end to
end of the vast factory the work is rush*
ing on. This is what can be done by the
power of organization with man's poor
puny wisdom ! What, then, may we not
suppose can be effected by Divine orgapU
zation arising out of the wisdom of av
God!

We admit this is a poor parallel to the
immense machinery that fills the universe;
but it serves to show that there is no mora
necessity that its Almighty Governor,
with his vast intelligence, be present In
every operation of nature than therein
that the engineer should be in every strap
or stand, with hand on every wheel

We read that Jesus, after his resurrec-
tion, while differing neither in size nor in
general appearance from the generality of
men, could say, a All power is given unto/
me in heaven and an earth." If he who
trod the road to Emmaus, and, sitting on
the river side, eat of broiled fish and an
honeycomb, could hold a governmental
power felt throughout the regions of
space, and yet be a personage of the
stature and form of man, certainly his
Almighty Father could do the same.

The world have yet to learn that wis*
dom and intelligence, acting on the evst>
lasting laws of truth and righteousness,
constitute the elements of Divine power*
God has ever sought to familiarize man-
kind with the fact of the almighty power,
of eternal truth. He has continually**. —
sought to demonstrate to them that hiaSa'
power, sanctifies tion, holiness, and msv >
jesty lay not so much in the form or size
of his person as in the harmony of his
proceedings with the truth : hence he lias
made no secret about his personality, but
has been declaring it right on from the
creation of the world, — his object being
to demonstrate to mankind their nearnes s
to himself, and to teach them that ma-
glory and superiority lay in the perfection
of his attributes, and that the truth per-
fected within their souls could lift them
up to the same transcendent height.

Hence, at the very commencement of
the Divine history, we are told that God
made man " in his own image.' 1 After
this, we are informed by every Prophet
who conversed with Deity that he saw
him in that. identical form. We pass toy
the detail of multiplied times when he
was thus Sean, and corns -on to the Usee

Digitized by

KC TRACT OF A LBTTKR HON. W. H. HOOPER.

wbm bis own Son came upon earth to
gtre man an idea what the Deity was like
in person as well ad character. Hence it
la said that by him was the Father " ma-
nifested " to the world; and that there
might be no mistake about his manifest-
ing the form as well as the virtues of the
Father, it is said that he was the bright-
ness of his glory and " the express image of
Jusverson.

The "person" of the Father is thus
declared in a sentence; for we all know
what kind of a person Jesus had. What
need, then, of any mystification on the
subject ? But the tendency of man's dis-
position is always leading him to run
away from simplicity, and to hunt for
something incomprehensive and far-
fetched. Hence he vainly tries to cover
the idea with an ambiguity, and says a
* moral image/' not a bodily image, must
lie the only thing meant But other facts

records* in the S*tyfture» settle to*
question m a very simple way.

Setting aside the faeft thai it is hrHhft
description of the making of man's body,
and not his spirit, that this language is
used, we read that God gave a law to
Noah that he would require the life of
man, of man's fellow, or of beast, saying,
" Whoso sheddeth man's blood, by man
shall his blood be shed ;" and the reason
given by the Almighty for this law is,
"for in the image of God made As
man." Now, where is the point of this
reason for thus killing man or beast that
destroys the body of man, but in the fact
that in killing man they destroyed that
which resembled God ? A beast cannot
destroy a " moral image P We all know
that a bodily image is all that man or
beast can destroy, and therefore a bodily
image is that in which man resembles
Deity.

(To be continued,)

EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM HON. W. H. HOOFER.

House of Representatives, Washington City,

December 16, 1860.
George Q. Cannon, E9q.

Dear Brother, — I regret I have none of
your favours to reply to, but find you in-
debted to me for an answer to my favour of
-the 6th inst., addressed to you previous to
jour sailing from New York. As this
•will not reach you before your arrival
atyour field of labour, I trust your time
wiu not be so much taken up to prevent you
giving me a good, warm, lengthy reply.

My favours from home are from Presi-
dent Young to the 15th, Hooper, Eld-
ridge, and Co. to the 22nd. Nothing of
much moment, save the deaths of brothers
Darwin Richardson and John G. Lynch.
The President writes in good spirits—
speaks of having enjoyed his southern
trip very much— urges the admission of
Utah. They had heard of the election of
Lincoln, but nothing of the Secession
movements. I forwarded him the mes-
sage, as well as two lengthy communica-
fteat, posting; him fully in all matters of
interest, by the Pony Express. I shall
Mrtinu* to do so weekly through the
Melon. I am inreeeipt of a letter from
fa H fcer fifcow t he speaks of the good

health of himself and brother Pratt, of
their nattering prospects in their fields of
labour, and of then* intended visit to
see me.

I have caused to be forwarded to you
the Dailv Congressional Globe, which,
with the Herald, (you of course take it,)
will fully post you in all that is passing poli-
tically (at least upon the surface). Disso-
lution is inevitable, and the only object
now of holding out a compromise is to
conciliate and hold in the Border Slave
States. The Cotton or Gulf States will
go out. You get Mr. Buchanan's policy
from his Message. Mr. Cobb [Secretary
of Treasury,] differed and left. General
Cass [Secretary of State,] takes a more
strenuous view of the matter than Mr.
Buchanan, rather favouring coercion : he
also goes out. Tis said Mr. Thompson
[Secretary of Interior,] will resign to-
morrow. It is hard to leave Old Buck in
his troubles! Don't you pity him, poor
old man?

Judge Black* it is said, goes into the
State Department — a good appointment.
Governor Thomas is in Cobb's place.

The Committee of Thirty-Three are
hard at work} bat I apprehend their

Digitized by

work will be what Shakespeare calls
•low's labour tost." One thing they will
^o— that is, lead the public mind to those
wholesome provisions which will be amend-
atory to the Constitution, 6xing by con-
stitutional law the right of the Territories to
sovereignty in legislative capacity as well
as in the elective franchise, by tne selec-
tion and election of those who are to
govern them. You will see the entire
press and politicians (particularly Repub-
licans,) are drifting in that channel ; and
if you recollect, I stated to you months
ago that popular sovereignty would be
one of the leading features of Mr. Lin-
coln's administration, if he should be
elected. I think that what is called the
Enabling Act will also be embraced, if the
Constitution should be amended, giving
the Territories the unconditional (save a
population qualification and republican
constitution) right of admission.

Mr. Sherman will recommend the
admission of all the Territories this win-
ter, or all those who are willing to take
upon themselves the expense and respon-
sibilities of a State Government. This is
rather a change from last winter. Pre-
vious to these demonstrations, or the
recent advices from home, I was fully

convinced that the tune had arrfvecT to>
present our Constitution, and I had de-
termined to do so, seeing that a good
point could be made. I shall embrace
the first opportunity to offer it. I have
conversed with Mr. Grow, Mr. Colfax,
and many others on the subject. I think
three-quarters of the Republicans of the
House would vote for our admission ; but
I may be mistaken. Many say thej
would gladly "swap" the Golf States for
Utah. I tell them that we show our
loyalty by trying to get in while others
are trying to get out, notwithstanding our
grievances, which are far greater than
those of any of the Seceding States ; but
that I consider we can redress our griev-
ances better in the Union than out of it :
at least well give our worthy uncle an op-
portunity of engrafting us into his family;
and if he don't want us, we must then
carve out our own future. But as I have
already spun out this letter longer than I
intended, or than you may find time to>
read, and as I design writing you weekly,
if I can, I will now close.

My love to yourself and all our breth-
ren. May God bless you is the prayer of
your friend and brother,

Wit. H. Hooper.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gehkbal. — The King of Prussia died on the 2nd inst. The Douro is flooded higher
than was erer known. The siege of Gaeta, notwithstanding the rain and snow, continues
furiously. Disturbances have taken place before the palace of the Archbishop of Naples.
Agitation increases in Sicily. Devastating inundations have occurred in Spain. Sultorino,
Spizia, and Klek are being fortified, to prerent Garibaldians landing. It is rumoured at
13t. Petersburg that 150,1)00 men are to be concentrated in Bussian Poland. Private letters
from Mostar report that the people of Piva, Droppeg, and Bangano have revolted, and
chosen the Government of Montenegro.

America*. — Late New Brunswick papers report a terrific gale in the Gulf of St.
Lawrence. The railway wharf at Shediao was destroyed; fire buildings were blown
'down or floated away ; two schooners were driven from their moorings high and dry up
into the fields, and a great number of trees were prostrated. On the 16th November m
strong east wind prevailed in G. S. L. City most of the day. In the evening it subsided
m little, but it blew again with great force before morning, doing, however, but little
damage. In Davis, Weber, and Box Elder counties the wind commenced blowing on the
15th, and continued about forty- eight hours, sweeping nearly everything before it in
many places, doing great damage to buildings, fences, stacks of hay and grain, and other
movable things that were in its course. At Centerville several buildings were
severely Injured, roofs blown off, &c. At Farmington the force of the wind was tre-
mendous, and the amount of damage done to houses, barns, stables, sheds, hay and
£ram staeks, fenoes, &c, has not as yet been reported. The city of Ogden suffered
aeverely. Forty dwellings are reported to have been more or less damaged, and some of theea
nearly demolished. The large and elegant Tabernacle was considerably damaged. Norsk
Ogden was also visited by the storm, which left many traces of its violence on houses*
sta cks, fences, out-houses, and other erections. At WUlard, the southern settlement in.

Digitized by

Sex Elder county, much damage wai dbne te buildings, several being unroofed, stocks
of hay and grain injured, and some seventy or eighty tons of hay boned up. The
JHcKxtaineer of the 17th November says— n President Young has now in course of comw
pletion a private school-room, which, in proportion to its she, is par excellence. The
Thirteenth and Fourteenth Wards hare each erected, and are fast completing, two excel-
lent buildings, to be used for schools and public meetings of every kind. Nor are our
friends in the outer settlements far behind the chief city. Everywhere improvements are
going on. Private dwellings and school-houses are being built in numbers, and a feeling-
to educate and cultivate the mind seems to predominate." Captain Walter M. Gibson left
O. S. L. City on the 21st Nov., via the Southern route and the Pacific, for the East Indies.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

• Thb Fatal Oxford Assizes." — These assizes were so called from the fact of the-
High Sheriff and 300 persons dying suddenly, in 1557, of a distemper caught from the pri-
soners.

Finer Methodist Msetinqhousi. — About 1740, John Wesley preached to many thorn-*
sands of persons in Moorfields, at Bennington Common, and Blaokheath. The first
metropolitan chapel of this celebrated preacher was at the " Foundry " in Moorfields.

** Uhdeb tbb Rose. — Hoses were brought from Italy and first planted in Eng-
land in the year 1522. They were consecrated as presents from the Pope of Borne,
amd were generally placed over confessionals as the symbols of secrecy. Hence the
phrase, u under the rose."

8pnrsTBRa. w — Among our industrious and frugal ancestors it was a maxim that a
^joung woman should never be married until she had spun herself a set of body, table,
-amd bed linen. From this custom, all unmarried women were termed spinsters — an appel-
lation which they still retain in all law proceedings.

Ehgluh Navy. — The navy of England was first established by King Alfred; Edgar
fead a fleet of 400 sail; King John a fleet of 5f0; Edward III. one of 700; and Henry
Til. was the first who began to build a royal navy. The Navy Board was established in
1625, and the Navy Office was founded December 4, 1644.

Stsexoth of Ice. — When the thickness of ice is an inoh and a half, it will bear the
weight of a man; when about 3} inches, it will bear detachments of Infantry with their
ranks rather wide apart ; with a thickness of 4 4-10ths inches, 8-pounders can be con-
greyed over it on sledges; 5 2-lOths inches will bear 12- pounders; 8 inches will bear
35-pounders; and a thickness of 12 inches will bear almost any weight.

Objooi of English Newspapers. — In England the first newspapers may be oon-
sidered due to the Spanish Armada. When the Spanish fleet was in the Channel, it oc-
curred to Elizabeth and her Prime Minister, Burleigh, that it would be wise policy to pre-
Tont, during a moment of general anxiety, the danger of false reports, by publishing
Teal information ; and with this object was issued the first English newspaper, The Englitk
Mercuric.

" The Boavenqeb's Daughter."— -In the reign of Henry VIII., 8ir William Skeving-
ton, a Lieutenant in the Tower, immortalized himself by the invention of a new engine
of torture, called Skevington's Irons, or Skeyington's Daughter, which was known and
dreaded for a century afterwards, under the corrupted name of the Scavenger's Daughter.
Thb instrument rolled and contracted the body into a ball, until the head and feet met
together, aad foroed the blood to ooze from the hands and feet, and frequently from the
sjoatrila and mouth.

Egyptian Pafbb, — The Egyptian paper was made of a rush or reed, called papyrus,
ejr biblns, growing chiefly in Egypt, on the banks of the Nile. The Egyptians, in making
this reed into paper, cut off the two extremities : the stem was then slit lengthwise Into
two equal parts, and from each of these the thin scaly coats or pellicles were stripped
'with a sharp instrument : the innermost skin was considered the best, the outer the worst,
fornring paper of different value. Pliny gives the names of twelve different qualities of
these papers. When the Alms of the papyrus were removed, they were laid out flat upon
• table, and two or more were laid across each other, so that the fibres lay at right angles.
In this state they were fastened together by being dipped in the river. The water was
then pressed out, and the films left to dry ; after which they were pressed and beaten.
With mallets to obtain a smooth surface. This then constituted Egyptian paper.

Digitized by

VABDBTI8S.

Thi rerelatiens of Mahomet, in /the oaTarn near Meooa, were written by his dfeoiplesj
oa shonldeivfcladea of mutton and da palxa karat,

" n»^nMB M is perhaps ai peculiar a word a§ any in oar langnaga : the two Ant letters
of it are male, the three first female* the four first a brare man, and the whole word a.
brave woman*

fkworuiA among children often prooeedf from the habit of sleeping with the head
under the bedclothes* and so inhaling air already breathed, which it farther contaminated
by exhalations from the skin.

Smith and Brown, running opposite Ways round a corner* strnck each other. " Oh*
dear," says Smith, " how yon made my head ring f M That's a sign it's hollow,* says
Brown. "Didn't yonrs ring?* says Smith. "No," says Brown. "That's a sign it's
tracked, 11 replied his friend.

A Novelty. — An animal called the laughing Jackass, fonnd nowhere bnt on the Aus-
tralian continent, has been brought to San Francisco. It belongs to. the feathered tribe,
mn4 has feathers, wings, and a long beak. It laughs like an old woman; and in the Australian
forests, at night, it has led many a wayfarer in search of an old lady in such a lonely
•eadltkra. , .

Xmni are now more spots on the sun than hare been seen before for many years $
some of these are. risible through a smoked glass to the naked eye* Several stars (some
ef them of great brilliancy, which, from their ascertained distance, must bare been- as
large as oew sunMjflNetally disappeared from the sky) and thai question has been
raised among astronodpta ayhether the light and heat of the sun are gradually fading
away. As this would ^accompanied by the destruction of all the plants and animals, on,
the earth, it is rather an interesting question. The sun's light and hectare* dintinished by
the dark spots arcne ^nj ea u w ume about one per cent," — Scientific AmcrUvh

.»-* t* '■- • - •
• . ) . . ■ • . { " ., . i i . ) i i . t

POETRY.

r DEATH OP THE RIGHTEOUS*.

flow blest the righteous when he dies— A holy quiet reigns around—

When ilnki a weary soul to restj A calm no earthly care destroys :

How mildly beam the closing eyes 1 Naught can disturb that peace profound

How gently hearee th' expiring breast 1 Which his unfettered soul enjoys.

So fades a summer cloud away ; Farewell, conflicting hopes aad fears.

So sinks the gale when stomas are o'er ; Where light aad shade alternate dwell :

So gently shuts the eye of day ; A bright, unchanging morn appears ;

So dies a wave along the shore. Farewell, Inconstant world, farewell 1

Died In Provo City, Oct. 26th, Hannah Barbara Fisher, aged 6t years. She was baptised into the
Church of Latter-day Saints in the year, 1853 by Elder Myres. She left her native home in Switzerland
1n the spring 1 of 1889, and crossed the Plains this season la one of the handcart companies.

CONTENTS.

Views of " Mormonism" and the " Mormons"... 17 Extract of a Letter from Hon. W. H. Hooper ... 20
estiug Correspondence.— Changes and Appoint- Varieties V

LIVERPOOL :

kdited and published nr ftte&ftns q. CkHvoVt 42, Islington.
pea aais at tkb LATTaa-ntar s**nts' book «*?ot, 3Q, FLoaaxcs btrmt, caoss sxaaaT, islino|,os%

AKO AUL BOOaSSLLSa*.

rapiTBa sv jambs' and nsphjkw, 51, south johx strict, urtftrooi., J

Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAHTO'

MILLENNIAL STAR. 1

"A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the ttattoni:
he will plead with all flesh ; he will give them that are wicked to the ttcerd, saith the LerdJ*—
JnmuR.

i*. a, t«l xsni.

SaturiUv, January 19, 1^1.

JPiice One £*pjy.

BETIBW OP PAST A»p PRESENT 'JiVJBJfTS.

That a great national crisis is at hand,
which will at no very remote period burst
forth simultaneously amongst the nations,
few who have observed the signs of the
times can doubt. Already have the events
preparatory to that period to which they
are fast hastening become deeply-seated
upon the body politic of the nations,
germinating all the elements of discord,
dissolution, and decay. For the last two
hundred years there appears to have
been something like a running account
kept with the nations, and which
appears to have been postponed for the
inhabitants of the last half of the nine-
teenth century for settlement. The
political and religious regime of our
fathers has matured and ripened on our
hands. They seem incapable of longer
perpetuating peace and prosperity among
their children. The balance- weight has

ei taken f rom the scales. The standard
become too short; it no longer meets
or satisfies our wants. To change from
the old beaten track, that the clamouring
•f the masses for reform may be gratified,
U to hazard all upon an experiment.
That tome important and decisive mea-
sures must be taken to meet the present
wants oflhe neonle and, aatisry thai
restore spirit which is agitating them,

that step will be, or what the consequences
which it will entail upon posterity. To
grant the masses that reform and liberty
which they are so impatient to obtain is
looked upon by many as entrusting to
them a boon which they are ill prepared
to receive, and which they could neither
appreciate nor enjoy, and which would in
the end result in disappointment and
sorrow to themselves.

That the present political and religious
fabrics are worn threadbare, and no
longer serve as a covering to conceal
their deformities and nakedness,or to meet
their multiplying and increasing wants,
few can doubl; and that the world is on
the verge of one of the most eventful
periods that has ever marked its history,
is equally certain. The strifes and fear-
fully-contending elements which appear
in the present political horizon of the
United States, casting their long, dark,
and ominous shadows on this side of the
Atlantic, indicate with unmistakeahle
certainty that the .gathering storm-cloud
has only risen in the West that it may
burst in the East. The present spirit of
the age is obstinately bent upon war-
Peace institutions amongst mc

Digitized by

Google

RIVBW OF PAST AND PRESENT I TENTS,

classes of tradesmen and mechanics.
Even here, in peaceful, Christian Eng-
land, our streets are crowded with bat-
talions of Volunteers, and the shrill
sound of the tocsin of war is reverbera-

aupon the breeze, even upon the Sab-
-day. Within one year, the Volun-
teer movement has increased from one to
one hundred and sixty thousand men,
and daily continues to augment its num-
bers. This warlike spirit nas become the
engrossing topic of the nations, exhaust-
ing their exchequer and overwhelming
them in debt. Three- fourths of the
•entire revenue of modern Europe is ex-
pended in paying the interest accruing
no debts which nave been chiefly con-
tracted by wars belonging to the last
generation, and in maintaining upon a
war footing their present enormous and
overgrown amount of soldiery. Loan
after loan has been necrociated and ex-
pended for the purpose of covering the face
of the land with magazine depots, con-
structing national defences, increasing
their navies, and manufacturing firearms
and appliances of war for the destruction
of their fellow- men. Europe at the pre-
sent day is one vast military encampment
from the shores of the Baltic to the
•traits of Gibraltar. A fraction less than
five millions of men are kept upon a war
footing, with the prospect at the opening
of spring of having their numbers largely
Increased. The cohesive elements are
fast departing from the ancient houses of
royalty; and discontent, jealousy, and re-
volution are threatening to dissolve the
allegiance of many of their subjects. At
the present time there is not a power in
Europe which is not deliberately specu-
' lating upon the chances of either victory
' «r defeat, with a margin so small that
" a choice between the two is equally un-
certain and problematical. In either
event, the country will become one vast
field of carnage and blood; so much
so, that a victory itself would scarcely be
better than defeat The elements of peace
; have departed from the governments of
. men. That which has characterized the
events of the past will no longer form a
'basis' of calculation for the future.
; * Since the fathers fell asleep, 1 * a change
lias come over the spirit of our world :

* wisdom and prudence have been mocked
'by courts and cabinets, and have taken

* then? departure from them, leaving a
spirit of recklessness which is maddening

their brain and seeking its gratification id
blood. Instead of the revolutionary re-
forms, made by the discontented mssson^
satisfying them, thev will only loosen the
fetters with which they have hitherto been
bound, and serve to open wide the door,
that revolution may become the order of
the day. That which would, if prudently
used, be a blessing to them, insuring
peace and tranquility to themselves ana
posterity, will serve in the present crisis
to precipitate their downfall and over-
throw.

When an enlightened and civilized na-
tion like that of the United States, while
in the full enjoyment of all the liberty to
do right and deal justly with their
fellow-men that could be asked for or
claimed by either an individual or a na-
tion, deliberately dissolve those relations
which would perpetuate their union, and
welcome in their stead strife, conten-
tion, and blood, surelv thev vender them-
selves unworthy the blessings of such sv
government, and prove themselves inca-
pable of self-government, or of properly
appreciating the boon of liberty, or of en-
joying the happiness it would insure*
After an existence of three-quarters of s>
century of unparalleled success and pros-
perity, multiplying their population from
five to thirty millions, extending their
commerce to every sea, annually produo-
ing from the sod that which sustains
three times their own population, openingr
mines that yield marvellous and incredibW
stores of mineral wealth, and advancing;
extensively in science and learning, — that
nation, after enjoying these blessings for
eighty-five years, and in the full tide of
successful experiment, and in the full
vigour of national strength and pros-
perity, seek to obliterate and drown
the patriotism of their fathers in the blood
of their children. We are thus led tor
the conclusion that the precedents of the
past fail in affording us a parallel from*
which we can obtain a solution to the
present critical condition of the age.
^ Since the days of ancient Babylon, the
tide of empire has been setting westward,
completing the form of the great image
as seen by Nebuchadnezzar, until its feet
and toes have finally rested upon the
Western hemisphere, developing in its
course civilization and arts, until the last
finishing touch has consummated the work
of ages; and with its completion come
decrepitude and decay, The great and

Digitized by Google

THE GOSPEL V. CltSVD*.

last crowning event which marked the
.fulfilment of that period was completed in
the formation of the Western Republic,
embracing within its constitution and laws
an equality and a sense of right to an extent
never before enjoyed by any nation that
lias hitherto preceded them, and which
were capable of becoming the greatest
blessing, had they acknowledged the
hand by which they were given. That
which is capable of becoming the greatest
Messing will, by its perversion, become the
greatest evil. Hence, when the govern-
ment of the United States depart from
that sense of justice embraced within

^85=

their constitution, their downfall wfll be
as rapid as their career has been prosper,
ous and happy. While the republics in
the West are tottering and crumbling to
decay, the spirit of reform and liberty is
spreading throughout Europe, extending
to the masses the right of self-govern-
ment, thereby fostering in their midst
those principles which, if they fail to ap-
preciate and value, by acknowledging the
hand of God in the enjoyment of them,
will finally result in the entire destruction
and overthrow of the governments and
institutions in their midst.

N. V. J.

THE GOSPEL versos CBEEDS.

BY KLDIB B* L. SLOAN.
" Come, now, and let ns reason together, salt* the Lord."— Isaiah.

The present condition of the religious

* cr Christian world is one fraught with
matter for deep consideration to the en-

' quiring mind. Professing to offer man-

* land a solid foundation on which to base
their hopes of an eternal existence, and

' claiming for its professions the sanction
of Divine authority, every human being
-who believes in a future of misery or hap-
piness has a right to investigate closely
and scrutinise carefully the validity of
such professions and claims.

God, according to the ideas we have
. entertained concerning him, is a being not
only of justice, but of infinite mercy and
lovtag-kindness, — a being who delights
in blessing his wayward, erring, and too
often ungrateful children} — a being who
clothes the earth in a gorgeous drapery
of loveliness and beauty to minister de-
fight to man, and bids the willing soil
give forth its abundant productions to
minister to his sustenance, his comfort,
and his happiness. Such a being we de-
light to reverence, and we find a source of
aoMd joy and true peace in worship-
ping him. From those, then, who come
clawung to be his servants and authorized
agents we have a right to expect a mani-
festation of some of those saving, happi-

' tying, and exalting principles which are

* the characteristics of that great Being
whom they profess to serve and re-

Again we say the present condition
of the Christian world is one fraught
with matter for deep consideration. It
claims for itself the proud position of
worshipping and serving the " Prince of
Peace, while the din of war, actual
or in prospective, rings from centre to
circumference. It plumes itself upon the
possession of principles of mercy and love,
while strife, animosity, and hatred revel
in its borders and fester at its core. It
proclaims itself the exponent of great
truths, of saving power, and a broad plan
of universal redemption, while it fetters
the mind, chills the heart, and freezes up
the well-springs of life and love granted
by the great Creator and Father of all
to his children, with its man- begotten
creeds and forms.

It may be said that war, strife, hatred,
disunion, selfishness, and uncharitableneas
are not the fruits of Christianity.
Granted. They are not the fruits of
true Christianity: they never did and
never will be found where that Holy Spirit
of salvation and love whidh characterized
Christ has free course, is fostered, and
dwells. Hence we conclude that that
Spirit does not dwell in the religious
world, and that its claims and professions
are spurious and unwarranted by heavenly
sanction. But lest it might be thought
that we judge too hastily, we will draw
a picture or two in illustration of our:

Digitized by Google

TQJL GO0PBL V* OMgrti

CRtaon. Yonder stand* a kind old mailt
wed down with the weight of years,
whose hoary locks are blanched hy the
suns and showers of fourscore summers
and winters. Benevolence is stamped
upon his forehead, and the genial glow of
a warm sonny heart shines upon his
venerable countenance. His fife has been
devoted to acts of charity and kindness;
his soul has been drawn out to comfort
the afflicted and pour the balm of con-
solation in the bruised and suffering heart;
his hand has been eyer ready to minister
to the wants of his suffering and needy
JfeBsw-mortals ; and his whole course of
existence has been a living illustration of
the heavenly qualities which link man to
that heaven whence he came and whither
he desires to return. Yet, because he can-
not believe in something which his fellow,
with no other higher claims to Divine
love, teaches, no reverend person will
minister at his dying pillow, though the
prayers of those he has succoured and
aided may mingle with his parting breath ;
and, by the illiberal and uncharitable
creed of a being like himself, he must be
thrust down to suffer eternal torments
with the liar, the adulterer, and. the mur-
derer.

Here stands another man, aged like the
former, but bis span of life has been one
continued 4cene of profligacy and cruelty.
Orphans and widows have caned his sly,
instnmating arts. Hecatombs of victims
have been offered at the shrines of his
avarice and lust. His bleared and dis-
gusting looks are the indices of .corrup-
tion, while his very breath stinks with
the rottenness within. No tongue that
loves truth can speak good of his name,
and no eye can look in his with gratitude
and thaws. Yet, when his shivering
spirit is about to leave the defiled taber-
nacle it inhabits, and the horrors of an
undefined torment flit before his guilty
Blind, he cries in anguish to thatOoi
whose very image he has insulted and
trampled on, and'offers him the service of 1
his last miserable moments, while a sooth-
ing voice will promise eternal peace and;
happiness to him in eesjulchral tones, and
assure him of a glorious resurrection in a
brighter and better world!

Let it not he thought that these pic-
tures are overdrawn. Their counter* \
inarm are 40 be met with in the walks qtf
life, and form a scathing commentary on
the creeds of -thsee systems winch claim

for their authors a God of justice and *
Saviour of mercy and love.

What solid grounds are there on which
to rest a trusting hope amid the conflicting
views and opinions whicn distract the mind
and stamp as human the multitudinous
systems of faith and worship, which the
Christian world offers to the human
family for their acceptance and requires
their adherence to ? That mind which can
tear from itself the surrounding folds of

r ranee and tradition manufactured by
hoary past, and sedulously wrapped
around it by its teachers and guardlana,
will wonderingly look Christendom in the
face and ask if a kind and beneficent God,
unchangeable in his attributes of jus*
tioe, mercy, goodness; and truth, will con-
demn to unspeakable tortures that soul
which repudiates systems he will not en-
dorse as troth, and rejects creeds which
he will not stamp with the seal of a living
testimony. It will ask Christendom why
man must be always left in a state of in-
certitude and doubt concerning that fu-
ture so pregnant with misery or happi-
ness, and wherefore it is that man, the
ofspring of God, should not he privileged
with the same blessings vouchsafed to hiav
children of fanner ages, if they will hum-
bly and peayerfully walk in she same
paths, honour the same laws, reverence
the same statutes, and magnify the same
commandments ; and why it is that the
knowledge promised by the Saviour of
mankind over eighteen centuries ago
cannot be obtained now, the same as it is
admitted it was then; and why a Peter,
a James, and a Paul were so privileged
above the children of this age as to enjoy
the giftaf the Holy Ghost and he made
partakers of she sweet powers of the
world to -come, if .God is unchangeable
and is no respecter of persons. And
asking these questions, it will not rest
satisfied with the contradictory responses
given, but will follow out the counsel of
James, asking that wisdom of Heaven
which it lacketh, and which it vainly
sought among the steeds, systems, and
professors of the religious woiip% and will
not cease till the portals of the .stomal
tveasure^house/of knowledge are opened
before it, where it can test that yearning
appetite sor heavenly food which possessed
it. We^douot desire to .quarrel .with
or make war upon the Qnuuees of oshetv
but we do- say thatdbbe.Jtnewkdge.of &od
aud the gift of eternal lives *rc ja the

Digitized by VjOOg IC

HsVTOEY Cff JOflfclH EMtTfl.

power of ewy generation that Witt lite
op to the principles and laws of the ever-
lasting Gospel — a Gospel full of blessings,
of mercy and peace, of happiness
and eternal joy; and that system
which professes to teach this Gospel, and
cannot offer a guarantee of its validity in
the testimony of the Spirit of God, with
all its soul-ennobling, heaven-inspiring,
Divine gifts and blessings, is impotent to
regenerate mankind, too narrow to meet
the wants of man's eternally-increasing
capacity, and unworthy of acceptance by
any intelligent mind.

There is something nobly grand and
comprehensive in the eternal truths of
salvation. Too broad, deep, and in-
finitely unfathomable to be grasped by
creeds or bounded by systems of man's
fashioning, and evincing the mind of God
in its every detail, the Gospel takes man in
the low grovelling condition in which it
finds him, and elevates him to an heirship
in eternity, if he will only study to live its
principles and laws. Meting out to every
man strict justice, by rewarding him
according to his works, it yet manifests
a divinity of mercy by ministering to him
in his weakness and ignorance, sealing
and endorsing all its principles as they
are faithfully acted upon by the Spirit of
promise, and gathering around his way-
ward nature those holy bonds of love

which Mud together the ctefeftms 4t
eternity; It is riot a gathering of empty
forms and unmeaning ceremonies, draped
in a gaudy tinselling bj zealous devotees;
bat, in the language of one of ol<L it is u the
power of God unto salvation/' It ele~
vates man socially, morally, physically
and mentally; it lifts him above the
sordid things of earth; it opens up ay
future for him, rich with a thousand joys;
it points to an eternal existence — to " a.
city having foundations, whose builder
and maker is God ;" and in the present
happiness it affords there is a sweet
foretaste of that ever- enduring happiness
and joy " which fadeth not away. It ia
a Gospel worth dying for, if needs be ; and
it is a Gospel worth living for, living tt>
enjoy, to communicate, and to realize.
We have tasted of its sweets; they are
pure and permanent : of its joys; they am
certain and worth possessing. It soars
as far above the creeas and systems of man
p s the heavens are above the earth; it spreads
us wings to the light, and eternity feels
its circumscribing power; it visits the
prison-house of the bound, and " leadehh
captivity captive;" it bringeth joy to*
those who mourn, comfort to those who.
are afflicted, liberty to the captive, hap*
piness to all who embrace it, and the light
of heaven to those who sit in dark places*
It is the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH*

(Continued Jhn* pap 24.)

[March, 1844.]

President Hyrum Smith arose and made
a few remarks. He compared the lawyers
to polliwaga, wiglers, and toads. He laid
the j would dry up next fall. * Those cha-
racters, 1 presume, were made in gizzard-
making time, when it was cheaper to get
gizaards than souls ; for if a soul cost g5, a
gizzard would cost nothing : like tree toads,
taey change colour to suit the object they
art upon. They ought to be ferreted ont
like rats. Tou could describe them as yon
would a hedgehog: they are in eyery hedge,
stinting like the skunk.

Charles Foster asked if Joseph meant
him. Joseph said, * I will reply by asking
you a question.' Foster: 1 That is no way/
Joseph: •Tea, that is the way the Quakers

do. But Jesus said, ,'tThose image and"
superscription is this ?* Why did you apply
the remarks to yourself? Why did yo*
ask if we meant you?' Foster: 'Then t
understand you meant me.* Joseph : ' Tost
said it.' Foster : * Tou shall hear from me.
Joseph, as Mayor: 'I fine you glO for that
threat, and for disturbing the meeting/

Doctor Foster spoke in palliation of his
brother Charles, and asked Joseph to await*
&c. HS said, ' He has not threatened you.'
Joseph said, • He has/ Doctor Foster said*
' No one has heard him threaten you,' whem
hundreds cried, * I hare 1* Doctor F. ©on*
tinned to speak, when the Mayor called hint
to order, or, said he, ' I will fine you/

William W. Phelps then read General
Smith's ' Tiews of tb* Powers and Pollct
of the General Government of the lUttsm

Digitized by

HISTORY OF J08JBPH SMITH?

States? after which, it waa voted, unani-
mously, with one exception, to uphold
General Smith for the Presidency of the
Hotted States.

An article was also read bj W. WJPhelps,
entitled, ' A Voice of Innocenoe from Nau-
too/ and all the assembly said 'Amen'
twice*

At thirty minutes past twelve, the meet-
ing adjourned till two, p.m.

When the people assembled according to
adjournment, choir sang a hymn. Prayer by
Elder O. Pratt. Singing.

President Brigham Young addressed the
congregation. He said, 'I wish to speak
upon the duty of lawyers, as they hare been
spoken of this morning. They were first
among the children of Israel to explain the
laws of Moses to the common people.

I class myself as a lawyer in Israel. My
business is to make peace among the people;
and when any man who calls himself a
lawyer takes a course to break peace instead
of making it, he is out of the line of his
duty. A lawyer's duty is to read the law
well himself, then tell the people what it is,
and let them act upon it, and keep peace;
and let them receive pay like any labouring

It is desirable for Justices of the Peace,
when men call for writs, to inquire into the
merits of the caee, and tell the parties how
to settle it, and thus put down lawsuits.
To cure lawbg, let us pay attention to our
business.

When we hear a story, never tell it again,
and it will be a perfect cure. If your
Vrother mistreats you, let him alone; if
jour enemy cheats you, let it go : cease to
deal with men who abuse yon. If all men
had taken the straightforward course that
some hare, we should not hare such dis-
orderly men in our midst.

I hare no objection to any man coming
here, but I will have nothing to do with
men who will abuse me at midnight and
at noonday. Oar difficulties and persecu-
tions haye always arisen from men right in
our midst.

It is the lust of individuals to rob us of
everything, and to take advantage of divisions
that may arise among us to build themselves
up. I feel that I want every man should
stay and lift up holy hands without dubiety,
wrath, or doubting.

To the men who own land here I would
*sej, Do not think you can sell your lands
liere, and then go off and spend it some-
where else in abusing the « Mormons.' I
tell yOu nay ; for know it, ye people, that
Israel is here; and they are the head, and not
the tail; and the people must learn it. All
these who have gone from us have gone
-from the head to the tail.

The grand object before us is to build the
Temple this season.

We have heard the effects of slander, and '
we want a cure and balm ; and I carry one
with me all the while, and I want all of
you to do the same. I will tell you what it
is : it is to mind our own business, and let
others alone, and suffer wrong rather than
do wrong. If any take your property
away, let them alone, and have nothing to
do with them.

A spirit has been manifested to divide
the Saints. It was manifest in the last
election. It was said, if they did not look
out, the Saints on the flat would beat the
Saints on the hill.

Great God ! how such a thing looks,
that the Saints should be afraid of beating
one another in the election, or being beat!
I would ask, Who built up this city ? Would
steamboats have landed here, if the Saints
had not come? Or could you, even the
speculators, have sold your lands for any-
thing here, if the Saints had not come?
They might have sold for a few bear and
wolf skins, bnt not for money.

If any of you wish to know how to have
your bread fall butter-side up, butter it on
both sides, and then it will fall butter-side
up. Oppose this work, and it will roll over
you.

When did this work ever stop sirce it
began ? Never. The only thing the Saints-
now want to know is, What does the Lord
want of us, and we are ready to do it.

Well, then, build the Temple of the Lord.
Keep the law of God, ye Saints, and the
hypocrite and scoundrel will flee out of
yonr midst and tremble, for the fire of God
will be too hot for them.

I expect the Saints are so anxious to
work, and so ready to do right, that God
has whispered to the Prophet, * Build the
Temple, and let the Nauvoo House alone
at present.' I would not sue a man, if he
owed me five hundred or a thousand dol-
lars, should he come to me and say he would
not pay me.

Elder John Taylor remarked that it was
said by some discontented persons that the
municipal officers of the city were acting lot
an arbitrary manner, which was false. He
then went on to explain the principles of
Democracy, until it was announced that It
would be desirable to set a contribution on
foot immediately to get fuse rope and blast-
ing powder, as a boat was coming down the
river, and the messenger was waiting to go
down to St. Louis.

Elder Taylor paused awhile for this pur-
pose, and a collection amounting to about
sixty dollars was made. He then continued
his speech: 'When society was first or-
ganised they found themselves without

Digitized by

BBTOKT OT JOOPH SMITH,

XegUature, Congrttf» Boom of Lords, or
avything of the kind, overy man was lord
•fer bm own house.

Difficulties began to arise, and the people
began to contend and combine together in
srovernments. By-and-by, tome two or
three requested that they might return to
their original customs, and the Government
said they might. Thia was the situation ef
thia city in the main, when we aiked for a

Of General Joseph Smith gome are afraid,
and think it doubtful about his election;
and, like the ostrich, stick their heads under
a bush, and leave their bodies out, so that
we can all see them; and after this it will
he a by-word — ' That man is an ostrich who
aides his head in this cause.' He ipoke
also on going on with the Temple.

President B. Young said— 'Those who
feave not paid their property Tithing we
shall call upon, and take dinner; and we
bad rather he saved that trouble, and have
them eome up and pay. Ton will want a
blessing in the Temple when it is done.'

President Joseph Smith remarked— ' In
relation to those who give in property for
the Temple : We want them to bring it to
the proper source, and to be careful into
whose hands It comes, that it may be
entered into the Church books, so that those
whose names are found in the Church books
small have the first claim to receive their
endowments in the Temple. I intend to
knap the door at the dedication myself; and
not a man shall pass who has not paid his

As to polities, I care bnt little about the
Prssidontisl chair. 1 would net give half
as much for the office of President of the
United States as I would for the one I now
hold aa Lieutenant- General of the Nauvoo
Legion.

We have as good a right to make a
political party to gain power to defend
ourselves, ss for demagogues to make use
of onr religion to get power to destroy us.
In other words, as the world has used the
power of Government to oppress and per-
aeeute us, it is right for us to use it for the
protection of our rights. We will whip the
■sab by getting up a candidate for Pre-

I get hold ef the Eastern papers,
and see how popular I am, lam afraid
myself that I shall be elected; but if I
should be, I would not say, * Your cause is
Just, hit I cm do nothing for you. 9

What I have said in my views in relation
to the annexation of Texas is with some
— f pfsjlar; the people are opposed to it
Met of the Anti-Mormons are good fellows,
fas? 8, however, in anticipation that they

will repent. They object to Texas on
account of slavery. Why, it Is the very
reason she ought to be received, so that we
may watch over them ; for, of the two evils*
we should reject the greatest.

Governor Houston, of Texas, says— 1 H
you refuse to receive us into the United
States, we must go to the British Govern-
ment for protection.'

This would certainly be bad policy for
this nation ; the British are now throughout
that whole country, trying to bribe all they
can ; and the first thing they would do, If
they got possession, would be to set the
negroes and Indians to fight, aad they
wonld use us up. British officers are now
running all over Texas to establish British
inflnenee in that country.

It will be more honourable for us to
receive Tezss and set the negroes free, and
use the negroes and Indians against our
foes. Don't let Texas go, lest our mothers
and the daughters of the land should laugh
us in the teeth ; and if these things are not
so, God never spoke by any Prophet since
the world began.

How much better it is for the nation to
bear a little expense than to have the Indians
and British upon us and destroy us all. We
should grasp all the Territory we can. I
know much that I do not tell. I have had
bribes offered me, but I have rejected them.

The Government will not receive any
advice or counsel from me: they are self-
sufficient. But they must go to hell, and.
work out their own salvation with fear and
trembling.

The South holds the balance of power.
By annexing Texas, I can do away this evil.
As soon ss Texas wss annexed, I would liber-
ate the slaves in two or three States, indem-
nifying their owners, and send the negroes
to Texas, and from Texas to Mexico, where
all colours are alike. And if that was not
sufficient, I would call upon Canada, and
annex it.

Singing by the choir. Prayer by Pre-
sident B. Young.

The baraue Fanny, Captain Patterson,
arrived at New Orleans with 210 souls,
led by Elder William Kay. They express,
in a letter to the Millennial Star, that
no people ever had a more prosperous
voyage than the Lord has favoured this
company with ; and such a captain and
crew, for kindness, could scarcely be met
with, the captain frequently administering
from the cabin stores onto the necessities
of all who required it.

Elder John E. Page published an
address to the inhabitants of Washington*

(Hhrpufmsjaj

Digitized by

40'

EDITORIAL,

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 19, 1861.

Thc Duties Still Before Us. — The inquiry has arisen whether the pub-
lication of our request in the closing paragraph of the editorial article in last week's
number of the Star, entitled " The Duties Now Before Us," was not a restriction
upon the Saints in the exercise of their right to donate to whom they please of the
Ministry. We are pleased that the inquiry has been made, as we wish, in continuation
of the subject of last week, to explain our views on this and kindred points.

It is a fact well known to all those who have had any experience in the ministry,
that there is a difference in the success of Elders in obtaining the aid needed to sus-
tain them in their travels and labours. While one is blessed with aM that is neoes-
Bary, and in many instances more than is really necessary, to supply his Wants,
another is pinched in his circumstances, and not infrequently destitute of what is
needful to make him moderately comfortable. Our experience in this Mission does
not warrant us in saying that this has been the case throughout the British Isles :
there may have been controlling circumstances which have prevented such a result
here. But we know that, were there no regulations, and were everything left to
move on naturally, it would be the case here as elsewhere. Two Elders may be in
the same Conference, and even in the same Branch, and this difference will be per-
ceptible. Such difference does not depend altogether upon the relative worth of each,
for both may be faithful and humble. Indeed, we have known instances of those
who had the least claim to the regard of the Saints faring much better than their
more modest, but quite as worthy brethren. There are some Elders who are gifted
in this respect. Their manners are pleasing, and they have the faculty of getting^
along smoothly. They never lack anything chat the Saints have in their power to
bestow. But there are others, as we have said, who in many instances are equally
worthy, but not equally fortunate on this point. Now, situated as the Elders here L
are at present, we see no reason why the one class should go short, and the ether,
possessing such advantages, use them to their own benefit.

But the Elders thus gifted may inquire, " Shall we not avail ourselves of the
kindness and proffered assistance of the Saints ? must we reject their aid when the
Lord has opened their hearts to extend aid to us? and must they be debarred from
the privilege of 'bestowing their means upon whom they please?" No ; such is not
the intention. We know that so long as the Saints are animated by the Spirit of the
Lord, they will administer of their substance, be it little or much, to the Eiders at
they may need. But it is desirable that, so far as practicable, there should be an
account kept of such donations. We do not wish any to suffer, neither that any
should take the advantage of his position or influence. By keeping as strict an ae~
count** possible in the Conferences, as we have counselled, these difficulties ^atr be
guawW^fainst: an idea can be gained of what each receives.

The feeling has been' indulged in, we are aware, that if the Saints, out of love and
respect toward^ the Elders, should feel led to impart freely of their means U assist"
them, it is their right to receive such — that nobody has the right to restrict'
the Saints in giving, or the Elders iif receiving ftteh gifts. Under the influence of

M ' I

EDITORIAL. 41

Bocb a feeling, it would make do difference what the circumstances of the Saints
should be ; the fact that they were giving voluntarily would be considered a sufficient
justification for receiving any and every gift.

There is no longer, however, any justification or excuse for taking a course of
this kind. Instead of the Elders accepting gifts or donations because they are the
spontaneous offerings of the Saints, and, whether they really need them or not, ap-
propriating them to their own use and benefit, let them counsel the Saints how they
can best use their means to deliver themselves from Babylon. The Saints who are
now in the Church in these lands, if faithful, will some day or other obtain experience
for themselves. When they do, they will be able to look back upon their past lives,
see their own« inexperience, and weigh the counsels and actions of the Elders with
whom they have been brought in contact. How pleasing must the reflection be at
that time to remember that when they had but little experience, and scarcely knew
what was good for themselves, their brethren who had experience and could see
their weakness had not taken advantage of it, but had counselled and cared for them
as a- father would for his children, not quenching their good desires, nor checking
their liberality, but giving them the proper direction. Their love for and confidence
in a man who would thus act would increase with every passing year, and they would
never think of him without blessing his memory. But if an Elder should pursue
the opposite course — if he should accept from the Saints all that they, in their un-
thinking liberality and exceeding love for him, might be disposed to give, irrespective
of his own or their circumstances, or if he should use means to prompt and excite
that liberal feeling which exists in the bosom of every true Saint towards the Priest-
hood for his own personal advantage, then it is more than likely that a day would
come when they would be in a position to scrutinize his conduct, analyze his motives,
and pronounce judgment in their own minds upon them. Then there would be a
feeling brought into existence in that Saint's bosom towards that Elder which would
scarcely ever be eradicated. The reflection would be — " When I was inexperienced
and knew not what was really for my own good, that man, instead of acting towards
me as a good shepherd would to one of his flock, or a kind father to one of his fa-
mily", tool advantage of my ignorance to benefit himself." The more experience
the Saint gained, the more apparent the culpability of such conduct would appear,
and it would be a most difficult labour to restore the confidence thus injured.

We remember the views of President Young on this principle expressed on one
occasion m a conversation : they were so applicable to the Elders, and withal so con-
sistent and truthful, that they made a deep impression upon us. He carried the view
beyond this life to eternity, and showed how a Saint who had been thus injured
might find fault with the Priesthood. For instance, if an Elder, in carrying out
bis own purposes, should collect or borrow means of the Saints, and thereby cripple
their efforts to gather, and they should die away from the body of the Church with-
out having received their endowments and other ordinances, that man would have a
heavy responsibility to bear. When the Saint thus deprived should come up in eter-
nity, and say, " Had you only discharged your duty to me, I should now be in pos-
session of Priesthood and blessings that I am destitute of. You are to blame for
this; for, had you acted to me as you should have done, I might have been gathered
and been in tile enjoyment of that glory and power which was my privilege."

This is a view of the subject that should ever be present with the Elders in all
their xsinistrations. As President Young, on the occasion referred to, expressed him-
self, th£ Elders should remember that their office and calling is to save men, and
they should so act towards them, in all their dealings, that they may be left without
excuse in the day of the Lord Jesus.

EjC0RATi6k. — It is imperatively necessary that the Presidents of Districts, Con-
feretiees, andBranches should attend immediately to the transmitting of names, orders,
and deposits of those wishing to emigrate this season. The Saints should understand
that this matter cannot be delayed an v longer without seriously embarrassing us in
ctf srattgeofentt for their outfit, &c., in the Unite* States.

Digitized by

TOHOfS OF WYINITT ST " sf OSXOKIBIC.*

• TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMONISM."

BT XLDSS E. L. T. SABBXSO*.
(Omtkmei from page 29.)

Again: Modern theologians hare
preached long and load that man lost the
" moral image" of his Maker at the time
of the fall. Suppose we turn, then, to
Paul, who lived some thousands of years
after man had (as they say) lost the moral
image of God. We shall find that Apos-
tle giving a singular reason why a man
should always uncover his head when he
prays. That reason is because " man is"
[not was] "the image of the glory of
God." If man, in Paul's degenerate
days, still was in the image of his Maker,
we have good reason for believing that it
was not a moral image. Besides, where
is the force of Paul a argument that a
man ought not to uncover a certain part
of his body, because his character on a
certain occasion resembled God ? There
is no point in the reason given till we
accept the idea that man, in covering his
head, covered something that resembled
Deity ; and then, as the only thing that
man can cover with wearing apparel is
his body,, a bodily image must be the
thing referred to.

We have on this subject, then, this
united testimony— God's own description
how he made the body of man, the testi-
mony of the Prophets who always saw
God in that form, the testimony of Jesus
who walked the earth as the u express
image of his Father's person," and finally,
the testimony of laws founded on the fact
of man's bodily resemblance to Deity, to
substantiate this connecting link of rela-
tionship between us and " our Father who
is in heaven."

a * One truth concerning God established
in our minds, we turn to the testimony of
the still greater relationship existing be-
tween man and God in spiritual qualities.
We go direct to his teachings who, on all
subjects respecting man and God, was
"the way, the truth, and the life."
Jesus is admitted by the bulk of profess-
ing Christians to have really partaken of
the Divine nature, and to have possessed
within himself the powers of a God.
But did he ever claim in all his teachings
any one distinction, so far as the original
**alities of his nature were ooncenied,

above any son or daughter of God.r^He
claimed headship— he claimed .to nave
been sanctified and purified expressly for
the special work he had to perform ; but
as to the inborn qualities of his nature for
eternal perfection, excepting in points of
precedence and leadership, be claimed no
more for himself than he claimed for
humanity at large; and yet he claimed to
be Divine. fLt said to his disciples, "My
Father and your Father, my God and
your God." " When ye pray, say, Our
Father who art in heaven. "Call no
man Father upon earth ; for one is your
Father, even God." That by the term
"Father* he did not simply mean Creator,
the remarkable nature of the language he
used on other occasions will plainly/
show.

He uses the same language to express
the oneness and relationship of man to
Deity that he uses to express his own re-
lationship and affinity. Of himself he
says, "I am in the Father, and she
Father in me." Of his disciples he says,
"At that day ye shall know that I am in
my Father, and ye in me, and I in you."
(John xiv. 20.) In other words, "ia
that day" they would discover, when
they came to personally know the Father,
that the fulness of his attributes, his
power, his grace, and truth dwelt truly
reflected in the Son; and they would fini
these same qualities dwelling so gloriously
within their own nature that in that day
they would "know" that the power ana
principles of Deity were developed within
themselves, and to so great an extent that
their own attributes and qualities would
be reflected in the bosom of the eternal.

In perfect harmony with these ideas of
the Divine origin of man, we find Jesus
referring to the words of David — **/ have
said ye are gods, and all of you are chiU
dren of the Most High? and using this
very language of David's as an argument
why he should call himself the Son of
God, said he, "If he called them gods
unto whom the word of God came*
and the scripture cannot be broken, sae
ye of him whom the Father hath sanotH-
tied and sent into the world, Thou bk%

Digitized by

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MOXMONlSlf."

4£

^phemest, because I said I am the Son of
God?" (John x. 34.)

All of a piece with this principle is
that significant prayer he uttered with
reference to all that should obey the
Gospel — * Neither pray I for these alone,
hot for them also which shall believe on
me through their word." "That they
all may be one, as thou, Father art in me,
and I in thee, that they also may be one
in us, that the world may believe that
thou hast sent me. And the glory which
thou gavest me J have given them, that
they may be one, even as we are one ; I
in them, and thou in me, that they may
be made perfect in one." (John xvii.
20—22.)

And to crown the whole, we have his
grand promise addressed to all the sons
of men — "To him that overcometh will
I grant to sit with me in my throne, even
as I also overcame, and am set down with
my Father in his throne" (Rev. Hi. 21) ;
and this great promise is endorsed by the
voice of the Holy Ghost declaring through
Paul that we are called to be " partakers
of a Divine nature " — "heirs of God and
joint heirs with Jesus Christ, And par-
takers « of all the fulness of God."

Where is the distinction here between
himself and man?— where the differ-
ence between his right to eternal power
and that of man's, except that he holds
the eternal right of superior authority and
control? The love, the qualities of the
Father could dwell reflected in them as
in himself; the very glory that his Father
had given him he had given them ; their
perfected quality could dwell reflected in
his own being as his in theirs ; and " as"
he had " overcome" and gained a throne,
they could do the same. Here is a blend-
ing up of nature — here a community of
soul, that beings of different natures
could not possess in common. And then
observe the similarity of the principle
upon which, as Jesus viewed it, man was
to receive an exaltation to the one upon
which he rose himself. Mark his prayer
— ** I pray that they may be one, even
as we are one; and then his promise —
They that overcome shall have power over
the nations, "even as I" received of
my Father ; and they shall sit with me in
my throne, "bybn as I" also overcame
and am set down with my Father in his
throne. The words "even as I" show
that Jesus saw that man was to gain an
exaltation, " even" as he had gained his,

and that the character of man's future _
was to be in majesty and glory "even" as . %
his own. Supposing that the Father had
sent a thousand Christs into the world,
instead of one, could Jesus have used'
such language concerning such person-
ages that could more plainly have said
they sprang from the same fountain of'
Divinity, and were consequently open to
the same exaltation, than in the language
he used concerning man ?

Combine these scriptural facts con-
cerning man's outward resemblance to
the Deity, his capability for such Divine
perfections, and the immense promises of
Jehovah with the facts that come under
our own observation respecting his soar-
ing intelligence, his wondrous skill, and
his insatiable ambHion, and judge whe-
ther we have not strong evidence to sup-
port the great * Mormon" doctrine that
God, angels, and men are one species,
differing only in their degrees of progress,
intelligence, excellence, and glory.

So far, then, we have travelled up the
stage of life and progress. We have
seen that the natural characteristics of
mankind are destined to pass with them
into immortality. We find that the
supreme God is a being of such a cha-
racter that an immortal man enwrapped in
flesh can be one with, " even as" He and
his Son are one. And we ask, If a man
of flesh and bones can rise, to move in
the same circle as Deity, to fill out a
divine destiny, what kind of a being can
we suppose God to be ? Jesus once upon
a time called Him M Man," saying that
he was "the Son of Man which is in
heaven." If Jesus, who claimed God
for his Father, was the Son of a great
Eternal "Man" who is in heaven, the
mystery of man and God is solved at
once. We do not wonder that man is
told to call him Father. We do not
wonder that he can dwell in man, and
man in him, or that if he possesses eternal
thrones, dominion, and power, man
is offered the same! The curtain o£
eternity is lifted at once ; the Scriptures
flash out light at every point : the forming
of man in the image of God — the mys-
terious fact how the Creator himself came
to have a u begotten Son" — the wondrous
powers of man — the teaching of immor-
tality and divinity shared by men and
women of flesh— the wonderful eagerness
of the ancients for posterity numberless
as the stars of heaven—all are explained.

Digitized by

UTAH NEWS.

if God be the great immortal illaJi — the
Divine Bead of our race, and man " his
offspring," destined to exist and progress
under him eternally on the patriarchal
principle.

(jooking round also on a universe of
tangible worlds stretching out bound-
lessly in every direction, the immensity of
'which declares how eternally they have
been progressing, and all as far as man
can gaze prepared and adapted for abodes
of such as ourselves, the whole mighty
framework of unutterable grandeur and
power rises into meaning, purpose, and
eternal utility, in the light of a tangible
immortality for such races with such a
Head.

Instead of Nature's* movements de-
claring that the universe has and will be
eternally filled with material movement,
and religion dashingly preaching a fu-
turity where nothing but sheer mmd will
exist in the light of these truths, Nature's
teachings (as seen in the mighty material
universe,) and the words of revelation are
seen to harmonize.

With reference to God, this, however,
(as we have said before,) is but one side
of the picture. On this side God stands
allied to man, or rather, man is seen as
allied to God, having the elements of his
nature begotten witn his soul. But, on
the other side, no language of ours can
describe the breadth that lies between
man— the infant child of the Eternal

enwrapped in ignorance and mortality,
and the Eternal rather dwelling in light
that no man (as such) can approach unto,
surrounded by more worlds than the
grains of dust composing a thousand such
worlds as this, each rolling in splendour
and might around bis abode, where, with
a vision that penetrates eternal space and
surveys all the works of his hands, he,
by the power of his Spirit, holds & grasp
upon all his creations, and is in all things
and through all things; and all things are
eternally before him. Such is our Father !
But these things " are written" that faith
might be inspired within our souls — that
we, knowing the greatness of our origin
and the breadth of our powers, might
gain energy sufficient, like Jesus, to " over-
come; 1 ' and above all things, that we
might learn the power and potency of
eternal truth to elevate the character as a
source of Divine power.

For the immensity of the progress,
then, before our souls, for the simplicity
of the plan, and for the elements of
eternal riches placed so close around our
path and witnin our daily grasp, let
gratitude arise in every heart.

Awake, O children of men, awake, and
let ceaseless choruses ascend to the
celestial skies for the revelation of the
precious gem hid within our bosoms— -for
the revelation of principles that "bring
life and immortality to light ! "

(To be ewntimud.)

UTAH NBW&

(From the "Dmeret Newt* 9 of November 28, 1800 J

Good Prospects for Fuel. —The
road to the Weber coal mines has been
• so far completed that the hauling of
coal to this city has been commenced,
and it was offered for sale in the streets
during the past week at $25 per k ton.
Some of the smiths have supplied
themselves with greater or less quan-
tities, which they pronounce excellent,
and it certainly has a very tine appearance.
The making of the road has been at-
tended with greater expense than was at
first anticipated ; but the work is now far
advanced, and it is expected that it will
shortly be completed the entire distance ;

and, when finished, will open to the
citisens of this county, Davis and Weber,
an inexhaustible mine of coal, of more
real value than the mines of gold and
silver in the western part of the Territory,
as it will furnish them with any required
amount of fuel, without which, in this
cold, timberless region, much suffering
must inevitably have shortly ensued.

Jordan Bridge. — The work of con-
structing the bridge across Jordan river,
at the foot of Horth Temple-street, is
progressing rapidly. The old bridge is
being removed. The new one is nearly

Digitized by

CWKUSPOMDBNOB.

fanned ; and, as soon as the abutments
are completed, will be placed in position, J
which will be shortly, if the weather
continues as favourable as it has been
during the last ten days.

Another Bridge m Contemplation.
— The citizens residing in the south-
western part of this city are donating
freely for the erection of a bridge across
the river at the foot of Eighth South-
street, nearty a mUe-and-a-half south of
the Territorial road, on which the new
bridge is being built. The location is

said to be favourable, and a good bridge
across Ae rirer at that point wiH tovery
convenient for those dwelling in that part
of the city, and will save them much

S*vel in going to and from the West"
ountaJn for wood, and to the range for
their cattle, when running at large.

New Expbbss Abb akokment . —We
are informed that after the 1st of De-
cember the speed of the "pony" will be
lessened ; and that, during the winter,
New York news will be fifteen days in
transit to San Francisco.

CORRESPONDENCE.

XH6LA29D. — NORWICH DISTRICT.

Harwich, January 7, 1S61,
Editor MiUmnial Star.
Bear Sir and Brother, — Considering it
. jnj duty to furnish you with a brief
report of the Norwich Pastorate for the
}as£ half of the year I860, 1 now proceed
to do so.

The Jforwieh Pastorate, as I hare nre-
liondj reported, extends, more or less*
into eight counties. In it are two Con-
ferences and twenty-nine Branches, the
members of which are scattered ; therefore
their meetings are small, and their oppor-
tunities fewer than the Saints in some
ofter places are privileged with. Its
local labourers are but few. They,
together with ail the Saints, are not
driven to insanity with this world's god —
gold; but, though poor as regards this
world's goods, I am happy to say* that the
majority are the u Lcrd?$ poor," and
therefore rich in many things which are
worthy of the name of true riches.

If you compare our finan rials with
financUs previously reported, you wiH
. perceive a decrease. Depression of trade,
arising from recent bankruptcies ana
other causes, has been the principal cause
jf due* J pray .the Lord to improve tfie
aeniiliusi of hi* humble, faithful children.

i humble,

^he sViimv of leetures, as announced
-bw Kit, and tfaepreaohtng of the Gospel
out of doors, which were referred to in
my last report, were continued as long as
jjfc&Qfn dictated, and " some of the good

The Presiding, Travelling, and Local
Priesthood ware united with me in those
labours; and they have since been one
with me in labouring to establish the
kingdom and government of God on the

The labours of Elders Blackburn and
Bramall, in proportion as they have Jbeen
appreciated, have been beneficial to us
all; for those labours have tended to
oappify, exalt, and save now and here*
after. May God's power continue and
increase upon them!

During the half-year we have baptized
about 76, making a total of 136 for the
year. Our prospects for more baptisms
are quite encouraging. Some of the
sheep who have been caught in and held
by tie fence, and others who have been
outside among the wolves, are looking
wistfully into the fold) an,d desiring to be
hack again enjoying safety and good
food ; and the kind labours of the good
shepherds will brwg them back again.
Others, who have never been adopted, are
favourably inclined ; and I pray my hea-
venly Father to bless the good seed which
has been sown and which will be sown
hereafter, so tnat it may live and grow,
and produce the desired fruits, and in-
crease the present number of the Pas-
torate (which is 8$2,) many hundreds.

I thank n>y heavenly Father for oper-
ating aa hehas to /urniah nje with the
means to go -home to Ziou ; *p4 I .thank:
imn and say brethren for the privilege
which they have given me to go in the
spring.

Digitized by Google

mnauxT.

I congratulate my brothers and sisters
on the appointment of Elder Blackburn
as my successor. I know they will hail it
with joy, for brother Blackburn has
laboured faithfully among them, and they
love him as a messenger of salvation.
May the blessings and power of God
attend his future labours f

It is with peculiar, but good feelings
that I leave my brethren and sisters with
wboYn I have become acquainted in this
Mission. If I have wronged any of
them in any way, I humbly ask their
forgiveness, and I tell them all that I
have nothing to forgive them. I thank

them all for their past kindnesses, in what*
ever way they have been manifested, and
pray the Lord to bless them for the same;
and, in addition, I will say that, if they
continue faithful, they will find their
reward embodied in the great rewards
which Go4 will eventually bestow upon
the faithful.

Praying that God may bless you and
yours, and your fellow- toilers in God's
cause, and crown with abundant success
all your united labours of love for the
salvation of our fallen race,

I remain yours in Christ,

William Jeffebies.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

General. — Letters from Garibaldi afford abundant proof that he is holding himself in
readiness for the 1st of March. News from Servia report increasing disquietude in that
principality. /The military forces of Prussia are so disposed along the Rhine and in West-
phalia, that a prompt change of position would suffice to put the whole army in line.
The German Federal army is completely equipped, and could present itself to the enemy
with little delay. The electoral movements in Naplea are favourable to the Government.
Some reactionary attempts have been pat down by Farini, and their promoters disarmed.
The Neapolitan soldiers have received orders to return to their homes. Spalato and
sixteen other communes of Dalmatia hare protested against any annexation to Croatia,
unless supported by instructions given by the Dalmatian people to their representatives.
Prom the Indian news we learn that a disturbance, on account of the income-tax, occurred
at Surat, on the 29th November: several persons found closing their shops were arrested
and brought to trial. A riotous demonstration against the income-tax also occurred at
Bassein, in the Tanna Colleotorate, on the 5th December : the leaders have been arrested,
and are now on trial.

Amebioah. — One star has at length fallen from the Federal constellation. The
Convention of South Carolina has decided, by the unanimous vote of 169 members,
the secession of that State from the Union. The following is a draft of the ordinance :—
" An Ordinance to Dissolve the Union between the State of South Carolina and other States
United with her under the Compact entitled the Constitution of the United States of
America : — We, the people of South Carolina, in Convention assembled, do declare and
ordain, and it is hereby declared and ordained, that the ordinance adopted by us in
Convention on the 23rd day of May, in the year of our Lord 1788, whereby the Con-
stitution of the United States of America was ratified ; and also, all acts and parts of
acts of the General Assembly of this State, ratifying amendments of the said Constitution,
are hereby repealed, and that the union now subsisting between South Carolina and other
States, under the name of the United States of America, is hereby dissolved." On the
21st ult., the S. C. House of Legislature changed the name of the Committee on
"Federal" to "Foreign" Relations. A committee was also appointed to style the State
flag. On the 22nd, the House adopted a resolution instructing the Military Committee
to make provision for feeding and transporting troops, and establishing telegraph lines to
all exposed points of the State, giving the Governor authority over all lines, in case of
war or apprehended invasion. On the 24th, the S. C. Delegation retired in a body from
Congress. The depositories or symbols of Federal authority are now bodily in the hands
of the Secessionists. Fort Moultrie, Castle Pickney, the Custom-house, the Post-office, and
the Arsenal at Charleston have all been seized. President Buchanan has appointed Friday,
January 4th, as a day of national humiliation, fasting, and prayer ; and in his " Reoommen*
dation" he says — " The Union of the States is at the present moment threatened with
alarming and immediate danger ; panic and distress of a fearful character prevail
throughout the land; our labouring population are without employment, and conse-
quently deprived of the means of earning their bread ; indeed, hope seems to hava

Digitized by VjOOQIC

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

d e sert ed the minds of men ; all classes are in a state of confusion and dismay, and the
w ise st counsels of our best and purest men are wholly diiregarded." General Cass has
resigned his position in the Cabinet as Secretary of State. Intelligence from Friais Point,
Mis** says thai the Vigilance Committee have hung three men for inciting the Blares to
rebellion. The House of Representatives of the Territory of Nebraska, on the 10th
nalt., passed the bill prohibiting slavery in the Territory, by a vote of 35 ayes to 2 nays.
The New York Tribune says of the famine in Kansas — " Thousands of the inhabitants of
Kansas are in a starving condition, and must perish for want of food and clothing before
next March, unless they obtain aid from the contributions of those more fortunate than
themselves. We have testimony which is not to be questioned, that, in consequence of
ike continued drouth, the crops have been almost a total failure. Over* 120 townships
are in a state of the most fearful suffering, many of the families having no food, no clo-
thing, no money. W» H. Russell, a contractor to carry supplies to the army in Utah, has
been arrested by U. 8. Marshal Rynders, and despatched to Washington, on a oharge of
feeing concerned in the late great defalcation in the Indian Trust Fund bonds.

Highest Chubch Spine in England.— The highest spire in 1 England is that of
.Salisbury Cathedral.

Sctlla amd Chabtbdis. — Scylla takes its name from the Greek word skutto, signifying
to irritate, in allusion to the boiling of the sea around it. CharybdU comes from two He-
brew words, signifying the gate of hell.

Otstib Season. — Oysters are in season in those months of the year which contain the
tetter r in their names ; namely, the first four and the last four months — January, Feb-
ruary, March, April, September, October, November, December.

Noted Whispering-Places. — The Whispering-Gallery of St. Paul's conveys a whisper
36 feet; but there is a whispering-place at Girgenti, in Sicily, where the slightest whisper
is distinctly audible through a distance of 250 feet* from the great western door to a
-cornice behind the altar.

Monet Bbook. — Nants-yr-Arian, or money-brook, is so named from a tradition that
when the plague raged in Builtb, the country people who supplied the place with pro-
-risions put them down here, and were paid for them by money dropped into the water, to
prevent the spread of infection.

Roundheads. — The friends of the Parliament in Charles the First's time were called
"Roundheads" because they distinguished themselves from the Cavaliers (who wore long
hair,) by having a round bowl or wooden dish put upon their heads, and their hair cut
-close to the edges of the bowl.

Herald's College. — The officers of the Herald's College are three kings-at-arms,
r&jled Garter, Clarenoieux, and Norroy ; six heralds, styled Windsor, Chester, Lancaster*
Somerset, York, and Richmond ; and four pursuivants, styled Portcullis, Rouge Dragon,
Slue Mantle, and Porte Croix.

Breaking the State* — The,breaking of a staff was originally the last formality of a
trial, and intimated that the sentence was irrevocably spoken. The form is still preserved
in eur State trials ; the breaking of a staff being the last ceremony performed by Lord
J>enman, as High Steward, in the affair of Lord Cardigan.

The Mscboscopic World.— Linnmns states that the aphide, the small green insect
found on the leaves and stems of plants, propagates so rapidly, that in the course of a
few months, if all interference were excluded, no fewer than 1,000,000,000,000,000,000
would be evolved from a single individual. This mass of life would weigh somewhere
about as much as five hundred millions of stout men.

Atlantic Tide- Wave. — The tide-wave in the Atlantic is a movement in mats of the
whole body of the water, which advances from the south towards the north during a
period of six hours, producing a total average rise of a very few feet, and then retires
-southwards again at the same rate and to the same amount. All the water of this vsst
trough, 7,000 miles long, and averaging 2,006 miles wide, being at one moment still, at
the next starts majestically into motion, and, as if endowed with life, presses onward, and
by slow degrees lifts up its whole mass, till after an hour it is some four or fire inches

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING,

•boy* its original level.

fOBTRY.—lfONZr LIST*

P B T p I.

WHAT ARE YOU SEEKING FOR?

Are you seeking, here below,

The poor miser's cankering store ?
Does your heart that idol know,

Foolish man calls precious ore ?
Wealth takes wings and Ales away;

'Tis bat folly's joyless dower :
It will shed no cheering ray

'Mid the gloom of death's dark hour.

Would you ©aire yourself a name,

•'Mid the wreck of human life,
On the scroll ef earthly Jam*,

With the reeking sword of strife ?
Better far to conquer sin—

The great enemy of man,
And immortal glory win,

~Bj the Gospel's saving plan.

Are you seeking to unbend

Chains that bow your country down ?
Are your interests all entwined

Round some despot's fallen crown ?
Patriotic virtue gains

But the dross of earthly things :
. Seek to break sin's galling chains,

AndprooWm the King of kings*

B&bUn.

Are you seeking to improve

The sad state of man below ?
Do you forward every move

Made to cheek the reign of woe r
Patch the folly of the world.

O ye wise men, if ye can :
But the flag of Christ unfurled

Is yie only hope of man.

Are yon seeking peace on earth.

And the joys that never mde?
Do you long for heavenly birth ?

Have you lesu's laws obeyed ?
Oh, to eavf &trorld from sin,

Gospti trttp is now revealed t
There is joy and peace therein j

'Us the foutW grace usttSaiia.

Seek the holy kingdom first j

Then naught else will God deny :
Christ will every fetter burst j

You'll have fadeless wealth on high.
And your fame shall ne'er decay;

Your philanthropy shall rest :
Christ shall yet his sceptre sway

*'er a wWld «vm*ty bleat.

RicrfXa*> Snwd.

MONEY LIST,

Edward Bekl..... m 4i 9

Abraham Orme ............ .~ ....... 4 2

Aaron Nelson M 2 19

John Clack-.. ft *

William Halle ... 8 l«

James D. Hirst . m ..._. M ......~... 2 1

W. T. Cromar 1 17

WBHam Moss ......... 4 •

Lewis Bowen ... - 1 ft

Jehn Redkigton - M ........... 2

Wllkt Harder .. S 11

John H. Kelson ... 8 2

WttHam H. Pitts.. « * »

JsmesMcGhie 8 8

John C. Graham ...... ~ - 4 2

ThSaaa lies.. — «... 1 18

Jdfan Cook « 21 1ft

John Reed .. ft 14

£. L. T. Harrison , ft 18

Charles Turner ........ 1 IV

Edward Hanham - 4 1ft

•eorge Reed. 1 16

tarried ferward. M . M jm 18

DECEMBER 1-31, I860.

3 Brought forward..
34 Thomas Mumford

ti J. Stanford „...

7*. S. Francis

4 H . W. Bainett ..........

7 John Griffiths ,

Hugh Evsns ,

Thomas Reel......

4 David Davies

2 Edwin Price

ft E. Burgoyne

2 W. Coslett

« Barry Wride

10 ■ * ~

^4 18

i I

2*
ft

John Davies , HMINW , WI

Mark Barnes

C. W. Penrose

R. Atidridge „a

B.* 1 . Cooke ......^

W. Hopwood , ... MMVM ....,

Joseph Silver M

Samuel Pyne ....

8*
7k
2 1© #

4 111
1ft 6

2 0,1*

2 6

ft 8*

ft 2 ft

3 ft 7

3 ft , It

3 14, H

8 It
14 8 7$

5 J3 ft

a i7 m

1 P 2

2 \* H
419 I

4447 ft 94

Review of Past and Present Events...,

The Gospel v. Creeds 33

History of Joseph Smith 37

dltorial.— The Duties StUl Before Us.— EmL

Divinity in ? Wormomsm" 42

C0WTENT8,

33 Correspondence,— Eagland^ Norwich District:

Letter from Eider WilUam Jefferies , A *

Summary of News and Passing Events 4t

Things Worth Remembering ... 47

PoeAiy. r WhM are you Seeing For - _ 4*

2aj Li

LIVERPOOL :

RAITED A*» PUBLISHED BjT OpQ*0«\<*. CKXJWU 42* ftylENTOE.
LAsHtttf:

Ff X SALB AT THK LATTfcK-DAY SAINTS* SOOSt DB»*T r ftO, I

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAT

MILLENNIAL STAR.

"Jtnolee tkail came even to the md» of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the naUemtt
he will plead wUh all fieth ; he will give them that are wicked to the eword, saith the Lord."—
Jeexmiab.

Ho. 4, Yol. XXm. Saturday, January £6, 1861. Price One Ptany.

BEMABES

BY PHESIDENT BBtGHAU YOUNG, OCTOBER 8, I860.

' By tbe cash manifest just read by bro-
ther Jcfcn T. Caine, yon peroelve that
there has beea expended, daring the years
1857, 1858, 1869, and to October 4, I860,
tTQ£04 in excess of what has been re-
ceived in mosey on Tithing, This exoesa
has been derived from cash received for
lamber sold to the army to the amount of
some gl 6,000 or £18,000, and from tbe
sale of sheep, horses, mules, cows, wag-
gons, harness, &c;, to various persons for
cash. It has been rather difficult to
raise the large amount of cash we have
expanded over the amount received on
money ffthing; but when it comes time
to sleep, I do not stay awake contriving
how we are to financier. I can under-
stand in a very few minutes all that) is
mwnsaiy and possible to be done, with*
out taking very great thought in the
matter.

' At tunes it seems as though all hell
end earth are combined to keep money
•atof my .hands, A great many of the;
peak weald give me millions, if they had
*; aa* snout of those who have it will
not pert with it. Those who are liberal
newj nothing, and they would give me ail
thef havau i Scarcely a man oomeau into
thfeChsmlkinaving much of aav amounti
of moneys lot wMt * spends hap money
Ma^tegs^faaftf^wilh^^aiiitafi >Pfcsv

sons would conceal from Joseph that they
had any money ; and, after they had spent
or lost it all, would come to him and say,
u O ho w I love you, brother J oseph ! 99 1£
you think you can keep the money front
me, you will be mistaken, for I shall hare
what is necessary to carry on this work?
and those who take a course to hedge up
my way in business transactions, pertain*
ing to carrying on this work, will go to
the Devil. They shall have that promise,
with {jay blessing. I do not curse peopie,
but I bless that class with a plenty
devils;

For four years past we have not had
much money pass through our hands*
In previous years merchants here have -
received as much money from me yearly
as you have heard read here to-day.
During the past? few years we have had to
manage and * plan pretty closely- in out
business transactions. Those wno bring
coal to sell want money* and- the brethren
who! labour- on tbe Public Works need*
tittle money now and then* * Some Shinto
that brother Watt*; who is -our Btmermw
tendent of Public Works, ia hard and
close in his public desJlHga? bmVhe is note
I have explained all that is neeessasyiai
regard to thfematfee* . We trsAe and
trade, we drtw cattle to California* and
tre^hertead there,*, and do everything

Digitized by Google >

we can to carry on this work. Ton
know and my wives and children know
that it is my mind that those who do
nothing but sit in rocking-chairs can
live on potatoes and buttermilk, while
those who do the labour should have both
the substantial food and the luxuries.
My friends know that that is my mind all
the time.

Some may think that my individual
business is so mixed and combined with
tha public business that I cannot keep
them separate. This is not the case, as
you can learn by asking brother David O.
Calder, or brother John T. Caine, who
has been reading a manifest to you.
Hiram B. Clawson, John T. Caine, and
Thomas Ellerbeck are the clerks who
keep the books of my private business ;
. and the Trustee- in-Trust has his clerks,

* of whom David 0. Calder is the chief.
Horace Whitney, Joseph Simmons, and
Amos M. Musser are his associate clerks,
and they keep the books pertaining to the
public business. My own private busU
ness is kept distinct from the public busi-
ness. If brother Calder wishes one hun-
dred or a thousand dollars, if I have it, he
borrows it of Hiram B. Clawson, and pays
it back; and so also brother Clawson
borrows of him and returns it. The
teasers wno come all the time after
women, and soon get tired of them and
want to divorce them, I make pay ten
dollars for each divorce ; and that is my
individual bank. If I want five dollars
or fifty cents from Hiram B. Clawson, it
is charged to me; and if he receives
money from me, it is credited to me ; and
not a dollar (except what I hand out or
give away out of my private purse,) goes
out of my office, either in my private or
public capacity, without passing through

• its appropriate set of books. I tell you
this that all may know that my private
affairs are not amalgamated with the pub-
lic affairs. Brigham Young and the
Trustee-in- Trust are two persons in busk
ness. When you speak of Brigham
Young as Trustee- in-Trust, he is one
man ; and when as Brigham Young, he is
another ; and the business between these
two names is kept as strictly [separate as
is the business of any two firms in the
world. If you want; to know anything
about the money, item by item, now it
has been obtained and now expended, our
books are open.

We do not ask an j body to pay Tithing,

unless they are disposed to do so ; but if*
you pretend to pay Tithing, pay it like
honest men. And Bishops who have it
in their power to gather money Tithing —
it is their duty to do it ; and if they do
not, they do not magnify their calling.
And brethren that have money, pay your
Tithing on it while you have it. And
when you turn your property, upon which
Tithing is due, into money, pay your
Tithing in money. Here are thousands
of men weaiing good hats, coats, panta-
loons, &c, &c, that I have paid the
money for. And women with costly rib-
bons on their bonnets : I pay the money
for these ribbons; and I pay the money for
the slippers on their feet, for their stockings,
their garments, &c. I have paid the
money for these articles year after year.
Is it not your duty to see that I have a
little money ? Were the Lord to reveal
to me where the ancient Jaredites hid
their hundreds of millions of dollars' worth
of treasure, I should not take it and hand
it out to the people, unless the Lord
directed me to do so; otherwise it would
perhaps seal the damnation of many ; for
at present you are better off without those
treasures than you would be with them.

If I am under obligation to see this
Gospel carried to all the nations of the
earth, so also is every Elder of Israel.
If it is my duty to see the poor gathered,
so it is the duty of every Elder. There is
no excuse for any man; every one ought
to put forth his hands and means, and do>
according to his ability.

We have often told you that we want
to build a Temple, but not for convening
promiscuous congregations. I inform
you, long before you see the walls reared
and the building completed, that it wilL
be for the purposes of the Priesthood, and
not for meetings of the people : we shall
not hold public meetings in it. I should
like to see the Temple built, in which you
will see the Priesthood in its order and
true organization, each Quorum in its
place. If we want a larger building than,
this Tabernacle for public exercises, nere-
is the ground already planned, and has
been for years. We can, if we choose,
build a Tabernacle that will accommodate
fifteen thousand people. The Temple will
be for the endowments— for theorganixa-
turn and instruction of the Priesthood.
If you want to build a Temple on these
conditions, you can have the privilege.
But I never again want to see one built

Digitized by

REMARK8.

to go into the hands of the wicked. I
hare asked my Father to give me power
te build a Temple on this block, bat not
until I can for ever maintain my rights in
it. I would rather see it burnt than to
see it go into the hands of devils. I was
thankful to see the Temple in Nauvoo on
fire. Previous to crossing the Mississippi
river, we bad met in that Temple and
banded it over to the Lord God of Israel ;
and when I saw the flames, I said, " Good,
Father, if you want it to be burnt up !"
I hoped to see it burned before I left; but
I did not. I was glad when I heard of
its being destroyed by fire, and of the
walls having fallen in, and said, " Hell,
you cannot now occupy it !" When the
Temple is built hero, I want to maintain
it for the use of the Priesthood. If this
cannot be, I would rather not see it built,
but go into the mountains and administer
there in die ordinances of the holy Priest-
hood, which is our right and privilege.
I would rather do this than build a
Temple for the wicked to trample under
their feet.

There are great and glorious things yet
to be revealed. We are but babes and
sucklings in the knowledge of God and
godliness. With all we know and under-
stand by the Priesthood here in the midst
of this people, we are mere infants before
the angels in heaven. We want to in-
struct the people and prepare them to
enter into the presence of the Father and
the Son. We want to gather the poor,
send the Gospel to the uttermost parts of
earth, and do a great many other good
things; and we will do so. We will turn
the world right side up, for it is now
wrong side up; and we want to turn it
over, prepare it, and present it to him
who owns it, in a more goodly form and
attitude than it has been in for many
centuries. - •

[Here Elder John T. Caine read a list
of the subscriptions to the Missionary
Fund.]

Wa will send our Elders forth to
preach, and will furnish, as we have now,
waggons, mules, harness, &c, to those
who are not able to provide those things
far themselves. When our Missionaries
*a»ch the frontiers, they will place a fair
vahiation upon their animals, &c. ; the
money will be paid to them, and they can
at once proceed to their different fields of
Jabomr. I pay them the money for the
property they have at the frontiers, and

when they return I want them to come
home as poor as they go away. If any one
wishes to get rich, let him stay here and
get rich, and not enrich himself from the
labours and means of the poor Saints
abroad. You may think that 1 am severe
on that course. I am, and I mean to be,
until I stop it. It has been growing and
growing, becoming tall, almost ungovern-
able and out of my reach ; but my foot
is set upon it, and I will walk it under,
and the influence of any one who pro-
motes such a principle. If I want to be-
come wealthy, I will stay here and ac-
cumulate property. If brother Heber C.
Kimball, Daniel H. Wells, or the Twelve
Apostles want to accumulate wealth, stay
here and do it, and not go into the world
to become rich. When you go into the
world, go to preach the Gospel ; and if *
you have a sixpence, give it to the people.
Give your time and talent to the people;
and if the Lord puts money into your
pockets, it is not yours, only for you to
use to save the people spiritually and
temporally.

We are going to fit out our Elders
from here, asking no odds of the world :
we have proved them enough. The gold,
and the silver belong to the Lord Al-
mighty, and he will hand it over to us as
fast as we know how to use it to his
name's glory. Some say, " If we had a
gold mine, we should do well." If I knew
where there was a gold mine, I would not
tell you. I do not want you to find one,
and I do not mean that you shall ; or if
you do, it shall be over my faith. We
have gold enough in the world, and it is
all the Lord's, and we do not deserve
more than we get. Let us make good use
of that, and send out the Elders.

Brother Woolley stated yesterday that
he wished to see men and women who
are too lazy to cook their victuals come-
with handcarts. They are the ones that
will not come with handcarts : they have
to be conveyed in waggons, and when
they arrive here they wiH apostatize. It
seems impossible to have them to do so
anywhere else, and we want them here as
soon as possible, that they may apostatise
and leave, get out of our way, that we
may go on with our labours ; and in this
we are making a few devils for future use .
to carry on our kingdoms.

Let the brethren who pretend to be -
Bishops be so indeed, and gather Tithing.
And if the people pretend to pay Tithing^

Digitized by LjOOglC

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

pay it properly and fairly, so far asyou
do pay, or let it alone entirely. Keep
your dollars and cents, your horses and
mules, your grain, &c., if you choose;
Imt if you pretend to pay Tithing, payit
like men : act like men and Saints. We
want to build a Temple on this block.
Don't you think that hell will howl?
What did we tell you, when we laid those
foundation walls ? We told you that all
Bell would be on the move. That has
transpired, and still they say, " We have
not persecuted you." But they are liars.
Who among them have stepped forward
and said, " Let those men alone ?" Only
« few. Our friend who came here in
the dead of winter, having left his wife
sick nigh unto death, is one of those who
will yet have a celestial crown ; he is on
the road to it. When Judge Kinney was
in Washington, he spoke well of this peo-
ple. So far as I know, he has never
spoken evil of this people ; but every time
he met an Elder in Washington he re-
ceived him as a friend, spoke to him
kindly, and was not ashamed to walk arm-
in-arm with him in the streets of that
city. There is a kingdom for him — a
kingdom of glory. When they wanted
him to come here as a Governor, I am
told that he said, " Yes, if you send no
soldiers there." He has a heart ; and I
say, God bless bim and every other good,
honest man, whether he is a " Mormon "
or not. Who ever walked more correctly
In his sphere of business than Judge
Shaver ? No man. He was as upright
as a man could be. He came here as a
Judge, and he honoured the people, he
honoured his office, he honoured the Pre-
sident in his appointment, and he
honoured the laws of the Territory and
the laws of the Government. There is a
kingdom for him ; he will have his
reward.

There is a great difference betweew
persecuting this people and the people of
other sects. God will make persecutors
pay every debt they contract with this
people. This is the Priesthood of the
Almighty. God has set his hand the
second time to gather the people. Is
will not do to trifle with this people*
" Touch not mine anointed," saith the
Lord. ye inhabitants of the earth, be
careful how you infringe upon the Latter-
day Saints I They are the anointed of the
Lord, and are like the apple of his eye;
and he will bring you into judgment for
every act and move you make against
them. This nation will be shivered to
pieces. There is no cohesion in the par*
tides that compose it. If you touch it,
it will fall to pieces, for it is shattered
from its centre to its circumference.
They think it so strange that the "har-
monious Democracy" can divide. You
might as well try to put out the sun as
to make them united. God is working
with them ; he is taking his Spirit from
them. They are like water spilled upon
the ground; there is no soundness nor
stability left in them ; they are devoid of
good sense. God has called away the in-
telligence he bestowed upon them, and
every move they make will sink them
deeper and deeper in the mire, until the?
are lost and gone for ever. We wish
them no evil ; we heap no ooals of fire on
their heads, only by doing them good and
exhorting them to refrain from meddling
with this people. The time is nigh when
every man that will not take up his
sword against his neighbour must needs
ti e to Zion.

Where is Zion ? Where the organiza-
tion of the Church of God is; and may it
dwell spiritually in every heart ; and may
we so live as to always enjoy the Spirit
of Zion. Amen.

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

BT SXSBB B. L. SLOAN.

That the caption here chosen may not
mislead any one, it will be as well to state
at the beginning that it is not intended
in this article to draw a comparison be-
tween the relative merits of Christianity

and "Mormonism." Considering both
in the abstract, such a thing could not be
done, as they are but different dispensa-,
tions of the same great work of redemp-
tion: we will therefore simply notice

Digitized by

-CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONJ&M."

some few features in each which are
often looked upon from a wrong point of
view.

The term " Christian," now so generally
received as an honourable title, was, when
first given to the Saints of former days, ap-
plied as a term of reproach. When the zeal -
oas and enlightened J e w, the polite, refined,
and philosophic Greek, or the proud and
haughty Roman desired to express tersely
his opinion of extreme fanaticism and ig-
norant credulity, he could find no more
forcible word in the whole range of his
vocabulary of contempt than that of
"Christian" — "one duped and deceived
- by pretensions the most ridiculously ab-
surd, a follower of Christ and believer in
a fable, hated by the Jews, scouted by
the Greeks, and repudiated by the
Romans." Thus this term was applied to
the early Saints as a reproach, having its
origin at Antioch ; and it gradually be-
came the destructive appellation by which
they were known, until at length assuming
it themselves, as the faith in Christ
spread and became popular, the relative
term by which they were known became
popular also, and popularity gave it
honour.

The term "Mormon" is likewise a dis-
tinctive appellation given to the Latter-
day Saints by their enemies, because they
believe in the Book of Mormon, receiving
it as a revelation from God, and testify of
the divine mission of Joseph Smith; and,
in the minds of not a few it embodies
within it the very acme of reproach. To
be a "Mormon" is to be looked upon as
something terribly fanatic and visionary,
even by many who are willing to admit
that our motives are honest, and many of
our efforts praiseworthy. Where, then,
is the grand difference between the two
epithets? Age and popularity have
made the one honourable: the other
wants but age and popularity to make it
equally as honourable with the world.
Yet, whether the appellation by which
the "Mormons" are known is looked
upon as honourable or dishonourable —
or whether they are held in esteem
or contempt, the instrinsic value of the
truths they teach will remain equally the
same, and will have the same force and
character with them, and the same power
to bless and happify those who receive
• them) while the fact of an individual tak-
- fng to himself the title of "Christian,"
or ^priding himself on being a member of

a Christian community, will not avail
him anything in the eyes of the Great
God, unless he practically applies the
truths of Christianity to himself and em-
bodies its saving principles in his own
being. Crowned heads glory in the titles
bestowed upon them, such as " Most Chris-
tian Majesty," " Defender of the Faith,"
&c. ; old aristocrats pride themselves in
ancestors who fought under " the banner
of the cross ;" and the great bulk of the
Christian world, whose lives are a con-
tinual negation of every principle incul-
cated in the Christian faith, would repu-
diate the very idea that they are not
" Christians," simply because it is venerable
with age, dignified by the traditions of the
past, and popular, while " Mormonism,"
which embraces the same principles con-
tained in the Gospel taught by Christ and
his immediate followers, is rejected and
looked upon with contempt, because it
has not received the stamp of general ap-
probation. It is a sad truth that
thousands regularly attend the churches
of Christendom, because it is "fashion-
able" to go — because " everybody" goes
to hear the Rev. So-and-so, or the great
Dr. Somebody, who would shrink from
contact with one of the early plebeian dis-
ciples of Christ, — aye, would even look with
contempt upon "the carpenter's son*
himself, and who would consider them-
selves irretrievably disgraced by visiting a
" Mormon conventicle."

Great is the deity of the civilized world,
and Fashion is his mighty minister.

They who are loudest in condemning
" Mormonism" are the most unsparing in
their denunciations of the ancient Jews
for their rejection of the Lord Jesus, and
severe in their sweeping tirades against
the blind foolishness and mad bigotry of
that generation. Let us briefly examine
the matter, and see how it stands. For
thirty years had the Son of God lived and
sojourned among his reputed kinsmen in
the flesh before commencing his great
mission to man, forming an acquaintance
with the opinions and forms of belief held
by those surrounding him, and obviously
noting carefully their woful want of
knowledge of God's rapidly ripening
purposes, and preparing to combat with
patience, labour, and unequalled love thehr
errors and ignorance. Much as the
Jews anticipated a Messiah to appear,
even at that time, the great bulk of the
people, headed by their religious leaders**

Digitized by VjOOQ IC

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

and teachers, were not prepared to accept
as such one reputedly born of humble
parents, raised among obscure associates,
and coming from the insignificant city of
Nazareth, when the Prophet had declared
that from Bethlehem God would call his
Son, particularly when this aspirant to
such a mission appeared among them
comparatively unlearned in the knowledge
of man, and unattended by the peculiar
surroundings of characteristics and ac-
companiments with which in imagination
they had invested the conquering Mes-
siah, who should free them from the
galling yoke of foreign tyranny and place
mem upon the apex of the pyramid of
power and greatness.

The Saviour commenced his mission
unattended and alone. Journeying along
the banks of Jordan, he reached the spot
where John was administering the rite of
baptism to the repentant Jews, to whom
he bad borne the first public testimony of
which we have any record, that the
Messiah bad come. "But the testifier
was his relative ; therefore an interested
party in introducing the fraud" would
most likely be the Pharisaic mode of
meeting the Baptist's testimony concern-
ing Jesus, like their prototypes of a later
age and generation. Having attended
to the sacred rite, he wandered forth
among the people as a " Travelling Elder,"
and called to his assistance men from the
lower walks of life — hardy fishermen from
the shores of Galilee, accustomed to go
barefoot and scantily clothed, but men of
Bterling honesty, pure hearts, humble
spirits, and great minds, — men who could
. travel from village to village, from town
to town, and from city to city, entering
into the synagogues and teaching the
people, themselves often' " hungered and
athirst," yet pouring blessings by the way-
aide on the heart- sore and mourning, who
were waiting for the "deliverance" of
Israel with prayer and faith. ye profes-
sors of modern Christianity, who raise lofty
edifices and cathedral structures, which you
dedicate to the apostles of Jesus I do you
ever try to realize the fact of these some
Apostles wandering half-clothed and hun-
gry, sleeping on the bare ground at night,
with the blue star-studded vault of heaven
for their only coverlid ? When you niche
their statues in the solemn aisles of your
churches, or limn their figures in your
sacred picture-subjects, robed in flowing
-vestures so gorgeous that kings might

almost envy the wearers, and surround
their successors (?) with the choicest
luxuries which wealth can purchase or
commerce command, drawn from the
needy, starving, perishing millions, do you
ever try to realize the fact of those same
Apostles, whom you professedly so much
venerate, toiling through the long weary
night on the rolling waves of Gennesaret,
and hauling at early dawn, with horny
bands, their sea- drawn spoil to the shore,
their limbs aching with the labour of the
night, dividing with honesty the fish they
had taken, overhauling their nets and
mending them, where they required it, or
spreading them out on the shelving beach
to dry, yet ready to go forth as the sun
mounted upwards in the heavens, and
cry, " Repent, for the kingdom of heaven
is at hand " ?

I tell you, elegant and fastidious processor
of Christianity, — I tell you, "right rev*
and learned" lord prelate, — I tell you,
"most noble, my lord" worshipper, and
you, " most Christian Majesty," wi*h all
the fashion-led multitudes that follow in
your train, that if the curtain of the past
could be rolled away, and you were
brought into' actual contact with ihese
hardy, barefoot, ill-clad fishermen,— face
to face with the Apostles whose memories
you revere, and whose names are hallowed
in your minds, you would start away with
disgust and elegant loathing from thorn ;
and your religion itself, now so highly
respected, because fashionable, would
smell too strongly of fish and other pie*
beian and vulgar odours for your^ refined
and fastidious tastes I What reception
would you accord one of these men, were
he to visit earth again v if he should
chance to enter some magnificent church
dedicated to his name, clothed in his
i rough and probably threadbare garb, and
desire to address a fashionable congrega-
tion — aye, even a congregation that might
be described as an omnium gatherum^ in his
uncouth and unrefined phraseology and
ungrammatical sentences? What recep-
tion do you accord to the living Priest-
hood of God now moving in your midst ?
Not men called from the hoary past,
raised up by the resurrection of the
just, but men of like passions unto
yourselves, yet endowed with the power
of the Eternal, and commissioned to bear
to you the same Gospel, the same blessings,
and the same eternal life which those ve-
nerated men of the past carried to the

Digitized by Google

CHRISTIANITY AKD w •IORMONISM."

human family, — men called from the
anvil, the bench, the plough, and the
fishing- net, like their antitypes of old, to
try you and test your worth, as they tried
and tested the generation to whom they
were sent. Ye who anathematize Phari-
sees and Scribes as devout and proud as
yourselves, because they rejected the
Tough, ill-clad, and unlearned bearers of
the message of salvation to them, looking
upon them as the deceived followers of an
impostor whom you venerate as the Son
of the living God, now display an equal
amount of culpability by rejecting the
living oracles of heaven in your midst.
They venerated Moses and the Prophets
as devoutly as you do the men whom they
rejected ; but they rejected him of whom
Moses and the Prophets spake, while ye
reject the very work and the agents em-
ployed in it, of whom Jesus and his
Apostles prophesied and wrote. Now,
looking back through the mists of nearly
nineteen centuries, you perceive the an-
cients clothed with the halo of a supernal
glory, and recognize them as the wielders
of a mighty power, giving life and salva-
tion to all who recognized and obeyed it,
or death and misery to all who rejected
the blessings it offered, vet cannot discern
the lineaments divine in the men called
and ordained through Joseph the Prophet
in these last days, to carry out the' designs
and purposes of Heaven, and prepare the
people for the second coming of Messiah

. in gk>ry to restore the kingdom to Israel.
They could look back through the mighty
and significant past as well as you, and
could see their ancient Prophets and
Saints clothed upon with an equally,
resplendent halo; yet, when brought
into actual contact with the Prophets
and Priesthood of God in power
upon the earth, they rejected them.
Both are condemned on the same
grounds: they, not because they re-
jected Moses and the Prophets, (for this
they did not,) hot because they rejected
Jesus and his Apostles ; you, not because

..you have rejected Jesus and the Apostles,
Xfor this you profe3S not to do.) but be-
cause you reject Joseph Smith, whom
Jesus has sent, and repudiate his mission.
Do not condemn the* dead Jew till the

. worth of the living Christian is fairly
weighed and balanced. But it is in the
nature of man to invest that from which
he is separated by time or distance with

(2> U continued.)

glories and beauties which fade before a
closer inspection. This feeling was en-
tertained, even by the Saints of old, con-
cerning the servants of God who had
preceded them. Thus James could write
concerning Elijah and call him " a man sub-
ject to Eke passjons as we are," evidently
showing that the popular feeling placed
Elijah somewhat above the frailties and
passions incident to humanity. Doubt-
less Elijah in his day would me some such
language concerning Moses or Enoch, as
we, now looking back, are almost inclined
to look upon the Apostles of a former dis-
pensation as something more than men.
But they were men who hoped, feared,
rejoiced, sorrowed, angered, hated, loved,
and were liable to err, — men of limited
knowledge and power, yet with knowledge
and power sufficient to direct the human
family in the way of eternal life. They
bad to contend with the traditions of the
fathers,' the bigotry of untameable zealots,
the learning of the age, and all the fas-
tidiousness of fashion and pride, with hell's
artillery combined ; and through all this
their Lord and Master stood by them and
bore them off victorious, even unto the
sealing their testimony with their blood.
So, in these last days, the Eiders of Israel,
from the Apostle3hip down through every
grade of the Melctpzedrc Priesthood en-
joyed by the Church of Jo?us Crmst of
Latter-day Saints, have bad to contend
with the same influences, the same feel-
ings, and with traditions equally as strong ;
and many of them have sealed their testi-
mony with their blood, including the
Prophet and Patriarch of the Church.
Still the work rolls on, and their blood
sown upon the earth has been like good
seed planted in a fruitful soil, and has
borne fruit a hundredfold. It was un-
popular and unfashionable, eighteen cen-
turies ago, to be a Christian ; hence the
bulk of the people rejected Christianity,
and persecuted its propagators and be-
lievers. It is unpopular now to be a
"Mormon;" hence the mass of humanity
scout the inculcations of <; Morrnonisin,"
reject its ministers, and persecute them u
the death.

When, O man, will you learn the value
of your agency before God, and use it as
a thinking, intelligent being should do,
who is responsible for his agency and
actions ?

Digitized by

Google

EMTOJUAL.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, JANUARY 26, 1861.

Doths not to bb Fobgottef.— In oontinciing the subject of "one duties"
fjrom 'where we left it last week, we do not wish to confine oar instructions and
views to the Elders alone, (Indeed this is not the object in any of oar articles,) bat to
have them perused and acted upon by all, officers and members, who claim a stand-
ing in the Church. Yet it is highly important that the Elders and other officers
should particularly notice and put in practice the counsels and instructions that have
'been so abundantly given for the past few months through the columns of the Star
in the discourses and extracts of correspondence of President Young and the Edi-
torials; for, if they do Dot, the Saints who look to them for counsel and example
, cannot be expected to make that progress in complying with them which they should.
If the Priesthood throughout this Mission can be made to realize the responsibility
and weight of their calling, and act in consonance therewith, we shall have no fear
< respecting the Saints. All who know anything about the operations of the Spirit
are cognizant of the fact that to bare faithful, active Saints, full of the fire of the
Gospel and of that faith which no impediment can prevent from fulfilling the com-
mands of the Lord, there must be presiding officers and a travelling ministry of this
stamp.* And these are/ the men that we trust are labouring at the present same
in the ministry in this Mission.

The efforts of President Young have been directed for some time past ta re-
gulating and bringing within proper bounds all the affairs of this Mission. He has
given positive and unmistakable instructions and commands upon most points, and
upon no single point more than upon the manner in which the Tithing and ether
Church moneys shall be disposed of. The Tithing, instead of being used for. the sup-
port of the Ministry, paying the expenses of the Mission, &o., as heretofore, is now
to be held, according to his instructions, subject to the order of the Trustee- in-Trust,
whose, legitimate province, and whose only, it is, to give instructions as to its dis-
posal. These instructions have been given through the columns of the Star to. the
Elders, and ws believe have been strictly obeyed. The expenses of the Mission of
late, Elders' food, clothing, and travelling fare, hall-rents, lights, firing, &c., have Jmd
to be met by donations from the Saints. This has had the effect of measurably,
and in some instances entirely, cutting off the payment of Tithing ; though this has not
been the only cause,— scarcity of work, &c., doubtless operating in conjunction
with it.

JNow, it will be seen at a glance by all who reflect, if the payment of Tithing
is to be nearly or quite stopped under this new arrangement, that President Young's
efforts in this direction have been comparatively futile, as bis hands, as Trustee- in-
Trust, are just as much tied, for the want of the means which, should be at his dis-
posal, under the new arrangement as under the old. If the sum under the head of
Tithing and Church funds subject to his order in this Office be less since the
t present arrangement has been introduced than it i was previously, and the decrease be
attributable to this} then it will be readily perceived by all that nothing is gained by
the change. The means would be kept out of his reach which he needs to carry on
the work enjoined upon him. .This is the. point to which we wish to "draw the

sjitcmtimi of the Eiders. We do not wish them, in their eagerness to keep up the
fend for Mission expenses, to neglect the important duty of keeping prominently before
the Saints the paying of Tithing and the making of deposits for emigration.

It is confidently expected at home that the plan lately introduced, accompanied as
Mat byauoh stringent instructions, will have the effect of lessening the so-called Mission
d u penses, and leave more means subject to the control of the Trustee-io. Trust. Of
course, as aft must see, from, what has been published, this has not to be accomplished
fey oppressing the Saints. Nothing can be further from the. mind of the First
presidency than that such should be the method adopted to bring this about. Their
instructions on this point are most positive. But it can be accomplished without
oppression. Among the Elders there may be a saving. President Young has said—
** When an Elder has two shirts, a decent pair of pantaloons, a comfortable coat,
vest, &a, let him therewith be content ; and when he receives others, let him donate
the old to the poor, and pass on his way rejoicing, living, dressing, &c, with the
utmost prudence and economy, giving all his energies to preaching the Gospel and
gathering the Saints, especially the poor. In this course, and in this alone, can he
expect to be abundantly blessed, both spiritually and temporally, and have the fruits
of his labours continue stedfast." These instructions being adopted and followed
by all the Elders will, it is expected, materially lessen the expenses, and will leave
more means free to be used in other directions.

The reaction which followed the granting of Hberty to the Saints to do as
►they pleased in the payment of Tithing, without fear of the loss of fellowship, is net
jet ended. But we wish the Elders to teach the Saints, the principle, and to have
i&hh in it. -Let there be no terrorism, threats of disfeUowshipping, or constraint

.need in enforcing it. Let it be distinctly understood that whatever the Saints do in
this direction, or any ether of a kindred nature, they should do voluntarily and in

^faith, believing that blessings will follow such acts. That which is given in
this manner, however small the amount may be, is worth far more than that exacted

. by tfear And. given grudgingly. There is in this a principle which we wish all could
—difslsnd By amderstanding it, or acting upon k, a. poor people can accomplish

y wonders ■ accomplish works that the rich, who are rich only in worldly means, might
weft -despair of accomplishing. This has been already strikingly illustrated in the
lustory of this Mission. It was wonderfully illustrated years ago in Rutland; Ohio,
In the rearing and building of a costly temple by an insignificant handful, numeri-
cally speaking, of poor, very poor, destitute Saints. In fact, the entire history of

:tteCbor*h in these days is replete with illustrations of the truth of this principle.

^We*fe fully convinced that whatever the amount may be that is given by the Saints

'imderstandingly and accompanied by their faith and blessings, will go farther than
m much larger sum given without these accompaniments. We have this conviction
not only inspecting Tithing, but on all means in whatever direction used, whether to

r«9»ignte,te-defiray Mission expenses, or anything else connected with the work of God.
Whertbervthe Saints have means to be tithed, or not, the teaching of the principle

4 «cxlo no harm. On the contrary, we can conceive of its doing a great amount
of good. Those that are able will tithe themselves with pleasure, viewing it as a

, privilege (for which they cannot be too thankful,) to assist in building up the kingdom

- of God and ■ forwarding its interests on the earth. Those that have not the means
BriH say iin> their hearts, "I tithe not, because I have not; but if I. had, I would

cgkffiy." And all will realise that the observance of the principle will result in
spiritual health 4nd weBbeing, and that * there is that scattereth, and yet increaaeth;

t4tod tjhere is. that withboldeft more than is meet, but it iendeth to poverty."

CORRESPONDENCE.

President Young's Discourse. — We have taken the liberty of publishing tin*
-week a discourse delivered by President Brigham Young at the last Semi- Annual
Conference of the Church in Great Salt Lake City. It will appear with the rest of
the discourses in its turn in the Journal; but to give it an earlier and wider
circulation, we have thought proper (in view of the light it throws upon points
that may be inquired about, and also the better to enable the officers and members
of the Church here to comprehend and partake of the Spirit that nils the Prophet of
the Lord in Zion,) to have it appear in the Star. It is not our intention to detract
in the least from the interest or value of the Journal of Discourses by publishing
ra these columns matter belonging to it. We know, however, that there is an interest
felt at the present time, such as was scarcely, if ever, felt before by the Elders and
Saints in these lands, in the counsel and instructions that emanate from President
Young ; and we wish to let no opportunity pass (especially under present circum-
stances,) of contributing to the increase of that interest.

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA . — DESERET.
Great Salt Lake City, Nov. 29, 16G0.

President A. Lyman.

Brother Amasa, — Tbe weather has
been cold and wintry since our last.
Great destruction of property has occurred
from wind in the northern settlements.
I wrote you that my son George A. hid
accompanied Jacob Hamblin and eight
others to explore a direct road to the
Moquitch country. We were all thun-
derstruck last night by the heartrending
news that he had been killed by the
Navajo Indians on the 2nd November,
about 350 miles by the crooked trail
from the settlements. His horse left the
band while they were watering. He
mounted another and pursued. In half-
a-mile he met a company of Indian
warriors, who appeared friendly, and had
caught his horse and was leading it back.
The first intimation of hostility was, one
of them snatched his pistol from his belt
and commenced shooting at him ; others
fired arrows. He had seven wounds,
three of which were arrow-wounds.
About 300 Navajo warriors had just fiud
from the United States' soldiers, who
they said had destroyed their village,
murdered about 1,000 old men, w omen,
and children, and they must have revenge,
and demanded from Hamblin three of his
men, who, they said, looked like the cap-
tains who had killed their relatives and
destroyed a great amount of their horses,

sheep, goats, and other property. Ham-
blin told them that he would not surrender
a man, but would fight as long as he had
a man left, and should kill many of them
whiie doing it. The party immediately
saddled up, placed George A. on a mule,
Jehiel McConnell riding behind him,
holding h:m in his arms, the life-blood
fast running away. They retreated in
this manner with all speed (tbe Indians
following in hot pursuit,) for about three
hours, when he died about sundown.
They carried him till dark, and then left
his body by the wayside, and made their
escape under the cover of night. They
had no intimation that there wa3 any
hostility between the Navajos and the
United States until this time.

My poor boy was born 7th July, 1842 ;
has always enjoyed poor health, but had
won many friends, and he felt a warm
heart to do something to redeem the
reran an t3 of Israel. He was determined
to learn the language of the Moquis ; but
the awful tragedy occurred between
between thirty and forty miles this side of
the tribe, the nearest of the Moquitch
villages.

Ycu, no doubt, can appreciate the feel-
ings of his mother, and sister to near
his own age, and myself, and many other
friends, much better than I can describe.

The party suffered greatly from a
scarcity of water. They were unable to
get their boat to the river, and had to go-
by the old Utah trail They were sarq

Digitized by CjOOQIC

CORRESPONDENCE.

from a battle with the Indians by the
breaking of a pack from the saddle and
the scattering of some cooking utensils
and other things. The Indians halted,
and began quarrelling who should have
them. The party of nine reached the
settlement in safety about the 20th No-
vember.

George A. Smith.

Salt Lake City, Dec. 4, 18G0.

President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since you left here, we
have bad very quiet, peaceable times.
There is none of that obstreperous rowdy-
ism which was so prevalent here a year
ago. As to Camp Floyd, or the array
located there, if it were hot that we
absolutely know of their existence, we
should be led to view it as a matter per.
taining to "long, long ago/' so little
mention is now made of either Camp
Floyd or its inhabitants. The dark, por-
tentous clouds which have seemed to
hang over us threateningly for three
years past have now evaporated, and left
nothing but the clear sunshine to gladden
the hearts of those who are Saints, and
who love to contemplate the kindness of
our Father in heaven in overruling the
plans and designs of the enemies of bis
kingdom for the benefit and advantage of
his people. Truly, if ever there were a
people on the earth who had cause to
rejoice at the continued kindness of an
overruling Providence, we, above all other?,
have abundant cause ; and I am indeed
glad to see that very many begin to
reflect on it in this view. To say that
the people are growing in confidence in
their God and their leaders, although
true, is an expression I do not love to
make use of. To me, from the first time
1 received a knowledge of the principles
of life and salvation as revealed through
our martyred Prophet Joseph, I have
never seen, nor heard, nor read, nor felt,
nor thought of anything to cast a doubt
on the truths of the everlasting Gospel as
taught by this the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints, neither on the
authority, integrity, nor purity and noble-
ness of intention of those who have been
our leaders. To suppose that the man
whom God exalts to the position of
leader of his kingdom in this last dispen-
sation could lead the people astray, to my

mind is an insultto our Father in heaven.
God has commenced a work and a king-
dom which is to stand for ever, and to
which all other earthly kingdoms must
eventually bow and submit, — a kingdom
which is destined not to decrease, but to
increase in power, honour, influence,
wealth, and glory, until all the kingdoms
of the earth become the kingdoms of our
God and of his Christ. Its course and
destiny is onward, upward ; and all the
powers of earth and hell combined cannot
stay its forward progress for one moment.
Past experience has demonstrated this,
and future experience will demonstrate it
more fully. The words of Daniel, "it
shall stand for ever/' are true and faith-
ful; and to suppose for one moment that
with such a kingdom to establish — so vast
a work to accomplish, the Lord would
select a man to lead it in whom he had
not the most perfect confidence, when he
had the inhabitants of the whole earth to
choose from, is preposterous; and the
natural inference is, if God has con-
fidence sufficient in a man to place him
at the head of so great and glorious a
kingdom, I surely should have confidence
enough in such a man to be implicitly led
by him. Truly we are weak and short-
sighted creatures !

Now you see the folly of my attempting
to write. I get to preaching and talking
to you about things that will not interest
you (because you are familiar with them,)
so much, perhaps, as many other things
might ; yet I do love to talk about the
prosperity and certainty, stability, dura-
bility, glory, and eternity of this work.

Since you left, we have lost several dear
friends by death : « amongst others may be
noticed John G. Lynch, Clerk of the
Probate Court, a young man of very pro-
mising abilities, and very deeply esteemed
by all who were acquainted with him.
Dr. Darwin Richardson also is gone
from among us — another useful man.
Mrs. Catherine Ciawson (mother of
Hyrum,) is also gone to rest ; and this
morning a daughter of President Heber
C. Kimball (Sarah Ellen) departed from
our midst. But the most melancholy
loss is that of George A., eldest
son of George A. Smith, who has
been killed by the Navajo Indians, while
on an exploring trip in the northern part
of New Mexico. This is a severe blow to
his parents and friends. No doubt you
will read the full details of his death ip

Digitized by Google

C0BBB8POHD2N0B.

the Mountaineer of December 1st. I
think, at & general thing, there is now a
better state of health than for some
months past, and we hope that the worst
of the sickness is past. However, when we
compare eur light visitations with the
more severe ones as experienced in the
States, we see much to be grateful for.

I think you visited the Weber coal
mine while you were here: if so, you
know something how valuable it is to the
inhabitants of this oounty. The coal is
of very good quality, and is now gene-
rally used and preferred to the charcoal
• by our blacksmiths. Many are having
grates made, designing to use it in private
families. It h at present sold at g25 or
$30 per ton ; but I think, when the rpad is
completed to it, which will be in a short
time, it will be afforded at $20 per ton ;
in which case, within twelve months it

*will no doubt be brought into pretty

. general use, especially in this city and
vicinity. Timber, for fuel, is getting
very scarce and difficult to obtain with-
out going a long distance for it ; and this
coal mine is of more value to the people
than if it were gold. The mine is re-
presented to be eleven feet thick, and
considered by good judges to be abun-
dantly sufficient to supply the inhabitants
of this region with fuel for at least one
hundred years — a period more than likely
sufficient to answer all our purposes, as
from the spirit which now seems to operate
most on President Young's mind, all the

. Latter-day Saints will not stay here for
ever. He talks much and frequently of
Jackson County, Missouri.

The harvest generally has been very

. good ; and notwithstanding there is little
or no market for the surplus grain, we
bear very few complaints. There is
more of a disposition amongst the people
to build storehouses and granaries to take

. care of grain and store it away than ever
before witnessed. The people begin to
look at the signs of the times m the

, States, and begm to realise that the time

-of the overthrow and destruction of that

. Government and nation which has first
banished the kingdom of God from their
midst, and then sought to exterminate it,
is close at hand, even at their very- doors.
If God was so careful to back up and
bring to pass the declarations, predictions,

, and prophecies of his anointed servants in
former dispensations, is it not very

. reasonable to , suppose that in this the dis-

pensation of the fulness of tunes*— fcy far
the greatest of all dispensations, he will
most assuredly bring to pass the declara-
tions and prophecies of his anointed ser-
vants, and fulfil them to the letter ? Yea,
verily, not one jot or tittle of that which
is spoken by the authority and power of
his Spirit shall fall to the ground. In
this movement to take care of and store
away the grain, I am happy to say that
the Quorums of Seventies are taking a
leading part ; and you know, when they
move and pull together, they make things
move. They are a big team.

The reports from the States (received
semi- weekly by pony express,) sineethe
election of Lincoln are of a very exciting
character; but although separated by
over three thousand miles of water, you
are about as near to the scene of excite-
ment and trouble, in regard to time, as
we are ; and I need not refer to this only
so far as it seems to have an influence on
the feelings of our people here. The
question is now often asked, Will the
Union be dissolved ? and if so, what will
be the consequences? These are very
grave questions, not for me to answer.
However, having been twenty years a
resident of the United States, where
guessing is lawful and tolerated, I take
the liberty to guess that the Union will
be dissolved before many months roll
over, and that the consequences will be
civil war, and a scene of blood, death, and
destruction such as has not been wit-
nessed on this continent for the last
sixteen hundred years. The nation that
has cruelly banished the people of God
from their midst, after coolly witnessing
the martyrdom of two of the noblest and
best men that ever lived, friends of God,
of his kingdom, and of his people, and
then to finish their catalogue of tyranny,
and persecution, sending a set of officers
to coerce an innocent people at the mouth
of the cannon and point of the bayonet,
(officers who were a disgrace to the name
of men, but very fit representatives of
the nation who sent them,) with threats
of utter extermination and annihilation,-*-
I say that nation has got to drink the
cup of bitterness to the dregs, whieh they
tried to make the people of God swaHow,
but which was turned aside by a kind
Father in heaven. They have got to
drink it; and woe, woe, woe to every
son of Adam who is a bitter enemy to
God and bis kingdom, and has sought its

Digitized by

UTAH

overthrow ! Some few of our intelligent
men say they think the overthrow of the
United States is not so near at hand,
because we as a people are not prepared
for it. To this my only reply would he,
that in the Parahle of the Ten Virgins,
-when at midnight there was a cry, " Be-
hold, the hridegroom cometh ; go ye ont to
meet him!" half the virgins were un-
prepared, and had not oil in their lamps.
Did the Saviour wait for them to get
ready ? No. He came, and the door was
shut. The parable is familiar to all the
Saints.

There, you see, I am preaching again ;
but as my sheet is nearly fall, I snail now
forbear. We are having very fine, plea-

NEWS, fit

sant weather so far. The people feel
well, and I never saw President Young
feel better.

My fcind and everlasting regards to
yourself, brothers Lyman and Rich, and 1
any one who has got a spark of good 1
feeling for the kingdom of God.
Faithfully yours,

WILLIAM CLAYTON.

P.S. Brother Franklin D. Richards •
is very low with inflammatory rheumatism.
He suffers very much, and is entirely
helpless. He is not considered in danger; •
but that disease in this country causes'
those afflicted with it to suffer unao-
countably.

UTAH NEWS.

(From the "Detent Newt 1 * of December 5, I860.;

Evening Free Schools.— On Monday
evening, a school was opened in one of
the 14th Ward School-rooms, which, we
are informed, is to continue during the
-winter, free to all residents of that Ward,
whether old or young, who may feel
disposed to attend. A similar school has
been opened in the 6th Ward.

New Roaixto Sjj«petb.— Anew road
baa recently been made from North Bend,
Sanpete County, by way of Thistle
Valley and Spanish Fork Kanyon, to
Spragville, Utah County, which reduces

the distance between those two points to-
35 miles. By the old route the distance
is 70 miles. The road is newly made,
and of course it is a litttle rough ; but
teams and waggons now travel that
way.

Late from the Weber Coal Road. —
Colonel Thomas Callister, who has been
superintending the work on the Silver r
Creek section of the road, hence to the
coal mines on the Weber, came in a few
days since, and reports that that portion
of the road is completed and in use.

LIST OF DEBTS

»UE FOB. BOOKS, STARS, ETC., BY THE SEVERAL CONFERENCES AND
OTHBR8^ FOR THE QUARTER ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1860.

B9bha ~ ....

Worcestershire ,
Herefordshire..

WOtahir*.
"tttmUni ,
Detbfenahlre

Crawley.472 K>

» John J. WaUto.- S4 13

Charles Turner . 11 18
..—..John Redtngton 1 7
—...Lewis Bo wen*.—
..J. Stanford
Joan H. Kelson .
..^..George Heed m
.•mm. Hugh SransM....
,. MM . WHliam Ooslett .
^••mJ(« BahmSm««..m*

8*
9 11
ft IS
6 1
» «*
S 2
1 10

i H

Brought forward m.....«.j£428
San Fraatisco MM .. M . M .0. Q. Cannon ~. 106
Cape of Good Hope m 6, Rucks IS

East India «• 3

Scandinavian MU*ion..John Tan Cstt... 2

P. M erry weather .mm
Isaac whltelev ........

J. W. McLeUan
Frederick Mackay «...

8 1
ft Si
8 24
1 11
1 It*

. 17
• 6

■ Jord M SH IS 7e
Carried forward ^^428 8 1

(Errors excepted.)

*558 9 112,

Digitized by

€2

SUMMARY. — THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING*

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

General.— The Globe states that serious rioting took place on the 16th fast.,
in the neighbourhood of Whitechapel, London. Mobs of dock-labourers, and others out of
employment, broke into the bakers' shops, and appropriated the contents. The police
are said to hare been utterly unable to interpose with any chance of success.
It is reported that the garrisons of Malta and Corfu have been increased to twice
their former strength, and that the English authorities intend organizing militia
at these places. Inundations in the French provinces have caused great damage. Count
de Persigny has given orders that all foreign newspapers, without exception, shall have
free circulation throughout- the French empire. Political manifestations continue
to take place in the theatres in Rome. The correspondent of the Times has been
ordered to quit Rome. The disturbances in Montenegro still continue. The
Bulgarians have commenced seceding to Catholicism on account of the refusal of the
Porte to grant a separate Patriarchate. The Times' correspondent says that much
discontent prevails in Greece, and that the King is becoming as unpopular as his ministers.
All the important Chinese ports are now open to trade. Permission has been granted to
foreign steamers to trade in the inland waters. A Chinese representative is to reside in
England. The rebels are again threatening Shanghai and Ningpo.

American. — Accounts from the interior of Pennsylvania are to the effect that enrol-
ments of volunteers are quietly going on among all classes, under the name of " Union
men." In the enrolment, the question of Republican or Democrat is sunk. On the
morning of the 23rd of November all Lima was thrown into a state of the greatest
excitement in consequence of another attempt at revolution and to assassinate President
Castillo. News from Mexico states that General Miramon had surprised the Liberals at
Tortuca, capturing 1,200 men and twelve cannon, and taking Generals Degollado,
JJernozabal, Trenio, and other prisoners.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING,

Italic Words in the Bible.— Some words in the Bible are printed in italics, to show-
that they are introduced by the translators to help out the sense of the passage where
they occur, as they were not in the original Hebrew or Greek.

"Evbby Bullet has its Billet." — These words were used by Colonel Spencer
Vassal, when leading on his troops to the assault of Monte Video, in order to encourage
them under a severe fire. Scarcely had he spoken when a bullet struck and killed him.
His family, in consequence, assumed the sentence for their motto, and reoeived as an
augmentation the breached bastions of a fortress, with the words " Monte Video."

" Lyceum." — The word " Lyceum " literally means a place dedicated to Apollo, who waa
frequently called the "Lycian" god, because in Ljcia he had a famous temple, wherein
he was supposed to pass the winter. The name of " Lyceum" was assigned to a sacred
enclosure in Athens, near the temple of Apollo. This place was decorated with fountains,
flowers, and statues, and provided with covered walks. It was the favourite resort of phi-
losophers and their pupils. Hence the word " Lyceum" is now given to any place set apart
for the instruction of the people by the literati of the age.

How to keep Flies from an Apabtment. — Suspend a net made of light- coloured 1
thread to the outside of the window ; and though every mesh may be large enough to
admit several flies, with expanded wings, to pass through at the same moment, yet, from
some inexplicable dread of venturing across the mesh work, these insects will be effectu-
ally excluded. It may be firmly secured on the outside of the window as soon as the
tffies begin to be troublesome, and allowed to remain till the cold weather; or, what it
better for those who admit the comfort of frequent window-cleanings, it may be stretohed
to a slight outer frame of wood, and in that manner be easily fixed to the window or removed
from it. A substitute might even be found for a net by fixing small nails round the
window-frame, at the distance of about an inch from each other, and stretching threads
across, both vertically and horizontally. It is necessary to state that, in order for this
plan of excluding flies to succeed, it is essential that the light enter the room on one side
■only ; for if there be an opposite or side window, the flies will pass through the net without
scruple. It is not even neoessary to have a net or threads arranged vertically end
horliontally so as to resemble one ; for if threads be stretohed in a horisontal direction
tolj •cross the openings of windows, at the distance of about an inch from each
-«tfcir, even this will be sufficient to keep out the flies.

Digitized by Google

VARIETIES.

Pabchmest PAiNTiyQ. — To write or lay water colours on parchment without their
running, the parchment must be rubbed over with pounce, applied by means of a co 1
of cloth or flannel.

It is said that the iron scales which accumulate round a blacksmith's anvil are " fer-
tilizers" for peach trees. A shovelful placed round the foot of a tree gives it abundant
nutriment for a season.

The Life of a Geht.— He gets up leisurely, breakfasts comfortably, reads the paper
regularly, dresses fashionably, eats a tart gravely, drinks superfluously, smokes elegantly,
talks insipidly, lives uselessly, dies reluctaatly, and is raiased by nobody.

"A Baby, should never wear a vail of any kind, least of all a dazzling white one. The
constant vacillating motion before the eye of this article of apparel is most injurious in
any case, a? all doctors have decided. We always know a foolish mother by her white-
vailed baby" — Fanny Fern.

Mr. Beech, late of the New York Sun, is now completing the construction of a steam
printing pres*, by which the sheets are cut from rolls, damped, printed upon both sides
at the rate of forty thousand impressions an hour, folded up, counted, and delivered from
the machine, ready for the carrier or mail.

Healthy Children. — " What makes the children in England so healthy and ruddy?"
*• They are fed on good bread, bannocks, and milk." " Do they not give them any pies, hot
cakes, and preserves ?" said Lizzie. " No, child, except on special occasions, and then
quite sparingly." " I would not like to live there." " Would you not like to have red
cheeks, bright eyes, and blooming health ?" " O, yes ; but what have these to do with
cakes, pies, and puddings?" "Much everyway," said aUntie, "Did you not feel a little
feverish yesterday afternoon ? ' " Yes, my head ached so bad, and my heart beat dread*
folly, and I was so hot." " So I thought. It was the pound-cake and brandy- peaches
that did the mischief." " Bnt mother says I am so delicate, that I need something to help
me." "Yes, child, you need much to help you, but not in the way of such delicacies :
these only make the matter worse." " But I like them so much I" " This is because you
have pampered your appetite. Only try for a week plain, simple food, and you will like
it better. Warm biscuits, mince pies, doughnuts, and hot coffee would try the digestive
organs of an anaconda. Boys who run in the open air, and play at foot-ball, and take it
roughly, may stand such diet ; but girls wilt and waste away under it." — The Gem.

An A hti- Bilious Tub key — Cuff was a gentleman's gentleman down in old Virginia,
and a darkey of most undonbted honesty and truth; but he would sometimes tell
tough stories. " He met " Kurnel Johnsing's nigg," as he called him, the other day*
and after ousting and discussing various matters appertaining to their masters, they fell
into the following conversation :— " Sam : * Well, Cuff, how was you ? ' Cuff: ' Oh ! 1
isn't no wus.' Sam : * How is all do folks down at de house?' Cuff : ' Oh, dey is able to
be round, 'cept da ole man's darter; she had de doctor de oder day. He came in, looked
at her, an' say she was bilyus, and guv her a box of login wegetable pills. When de
docUr go, she up an' trew de pills out de window. She wouldn't take no pills — no, sah !
Wal, de ole turkey-oock cum ; an' greedy cuss, he gobbled down de pills, box an all, wid
de whole direcshuns in four different langwiges. Next d>y we had company, an' had to-
kin dat turkey-cock, yer see. Brought him on de table biled wid eyster sass. Mass a
flourish his knife, and try to cut him up : couldn't get de knife into him. « Cuff,' says he,
'how long did yer bile dis turkey V Bile him an hour, sah. * Take him away an' bile
him anoder hoar.' So I took him away and biled him anoder hour.' Sam : ' Did de com-
pany wait?* Cnff: * Ob, yes, de company waited. Wal, I brought de turkey in, an
Btaasa flourish' his big knife agin, an' try to cut him; but he couldn't do it, no saht
* Take Mm away an* bile him anoder hour.' So I took him down into de kitchen agin.*
8am: 'Did de company wait?' Cuff: 'Of eouru dey waited. I brought in de turkey
agin, and maasa try to cut. But it was no go. Massa git mad.' * Take him away an*
Mle him a week ! * 8am : 'Did de company wait V Cuff : • Oh, yes, de company waited t
Dey were bound to see de fun out, yer know. Wal, in a week I brought in dat turkey*
Massa thought he got him this time, sure. But he couldn't cut a hole in him— de old
cock wouldn't be cut. Massa send for de doctor to hab de turkey examined. De dootor
come, look at de turkey— look all ever him. Says he, • It's no use ; yon can't bile dit
turkey, for he has taken a box of dese Ingin wegetable pills, on* dart itrii any bile t*
Ann/**

POBTBT, ■ } WMJMSM,

P £ I B ¥.

THE DYING WIFJU

(Selected.)

O draw the curtains o'er a bit,

An' let me see the mane,
Wi' the win kin' starry lamplea

A* dancln' clear abune.

The fun's awa' in robe of fire

A* gloriously an' bricht j
But it sent a beam to kiss me,

Before It bade guld nicht.

Its bonnle rays gaod ling'ringiy j
I watched Ilk partln' smile j

For 1 kent we'd never meet again,
An' grat me sair the while.

Scarce twenty simmers o'er my head
My young an' yearnln' heart,

▲'glowing wi' affections kind,
Oh! 'tis terrible to part !

Bnt tak' me in your arms, Jamie—

Tour doatin' deeln' wife,
An' lean my head upo' your, breast

As lang's there's ony life.

Your tsars are fa'mA burningly j

I fin' them on my cheek:
But calm yersel' and whisper me ;

We hae na lang to speak. '

O monle, monle trystjn* nicht

I've stolen out in baste,
All purity and happtaess,

To meet you ojt the waste.

Prodi mither atece, aa* fonder wife,
Tis hard to leave sae sum ;

Oh 1 /ain the young heart wad rebel,
But God's will maun- be- dune.

In deceat time, ye'U please yer folk,
An' seek some grander mate ;

But oh, wale ane o' kindliness,
Wha my orphans winna hate.

An' tell her that I bless'd her

A wee afore my death,
An' bequeathed my little bairnles

Wi' a mlther's deeln' breath.

An' when ye tak onr fav'rlte walk

By the bonnie water side,
Ye'll may be gi' ae tear for me.

Unnoticed o' yer bride.

An' should ye hae some ither young,

O leave na ours to pine j
But when she gies her aln a piece,

Gie you a bit to mine.

Ye*ve struggled sair wi' poverty,

For maldn' me yer aln )
But yer braw Men's 11 come rotaad ye,

When the sair despised U gaoe.

An' noo I feel death's creepin' cauld ;

Oh, lift them on the bed,
Till 1 bless my little darlings,

Ere' battUn' life has sped.

I've may 'be been owre prood o'.them—

Owre careless o' my God ;
But there's mercy for a mlther's love

In heaven's chast'nin' rod.

Noo, Jamie, ca' me ance again

Your aln, yer dearest wife j
And haud me close, an' kiss me, lore,

The farewell kiss o' life.

Dark, dark an' cauld — I hear ye net—

O stay, my husband, stay 1
Your hand— O yes, I feel— alas I

'Us me that's gaun away 1

, T. Dbnuam.

Abbslbssks.— Mllo Andrus, 42, Vaughton Street, Birmingham.

H. W. Barnett, 3, Alfred Court, Milbourn Street, Carlisle.

Ellas H. Blackburn, Chapel House, St. Paul's Opening, Norwich.

Edwin Scott, care of William Caffall, Capel Road, Bushey, near Watford, Herts.

James Brown 3rd,)

Joseph C. Rich, S> 24, Promenade Terrace, Bobin Htod Street; Hottmgham.
Edward Reld, ) •

CONTENTB.

Remarks M 49 Utah News ~ w 61,

ChrUUanity and u Mormonism" Quarterly List of Debts 81

Editorial — Duties Not to be Forgotten.— Summary of News and Passing Events *3

President Young's Discourse • » Things Worth Remembering „ 63

Correspondence. — America — Deseret : Letter Varieties ^

from Elder George A. Smith.— Letter from Poetry.— The Dying Wife ..

Elder William Clayton ... 59 Addresses

==_

LIVERPOOL t j
EDITED AND DTJBXItHBD BY GEORGB Q. GAWWOir, 43* nUHEHQlDWi 4
LONDON: \

WOtL SJLkM AT THK LATTER-DAT 8 AIJfTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STRXfer^lULXKOToV^

AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. '

minted bt jambs and mmw t 61, south john street, lttsktool.

Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAT 8AINT8*

MILLENNIAL STAR.

"A ttoiee shall come even to the endt of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controverts with thtnattoM;
he trill plead with all flesh ; he will give them that are wicked to the tsooed, smith the LorsV^-

We. 5, YoL XilH.

Saturday, February 2, lSdl.

Price One Plfcif*

VIEWS OP " MORONISM " AND THE "MOBHOlJS.",

BT fiLt>BB B» W. TVLATDCB.

TIE TV m. — THE SAINTS ADMITTED TO Bfi
tMPlBfi-FOUNDEBS.

In variotn ages empires fall and rise,

And the fixed times for dynasties to die
Coma rpand ; and then the Monarch of the skies

Lffts Qp some destined royal star on high,
And the* giro birth unto a mighty soul

To bear the empire of the new-born age.
How to the West behold the empire roll !

Young Israel bears it, and the Gentiles rage.

In View IL of "Monnonism " and the
"Mormons," we looked at the Saints in
their character of empire-founders, and
.their religion as being essentially of the
national genius. We classified u Mor-
■ monism" among that order of religions
that in different ages and in various parts
of the earth have sprung up and become
the souls of empires and the oeguinings
of new epochs. Moreover, the religion of
the Latter-day Saints is not only of the
empire-founding character, but also of
the theocratic order, and is not of pagan
or heathen origin, but nearly related to
the retwion of the ancient Israelites, and
closely Jinked with the Christiaiuty of the
Apostles and early-day Saints. Banking
the Saints and their religion not merely
a* belonging to the empire-foundinjg
order, but also linked in dose rtlatiouship
with anoint Is r ael an d formerly Saints,
.tfceopeningtf the- history of the Latter-
da; Cfrnrch, besides forming one- of the
-epoch* of tfce worlds ge|^bistory y also

forms one of those special links of sacred
history, or one of those grand divisions in
God's special economy of his revelations
to mankind which constitutes the series
of the world's special dispensations. Thus
we have introduced the birth of the
Latter-day Church as the beginning of a
new Christian dispensation, saw that the
Saints were not a fragment of sectarian-
ism, claimed for them the character of
empire-founders, and passingly observed in
them the steonff peculiarities of the empire-
founding Israelites of old.

Now, we acknowledge ourselves to be
numbered among the disciples of Joseph
Smith, the great key-stone of empire-
rounding Latter-day Israel; and we
mav be expected, therefore, to view the
subject of " Mormonism" and the " Mor-
mons" on the side of a strong faith and
in the light of admirers of the work.
Not to be open to the charge of looking
through " Mormon" spectacles, and as-
serting claims that will not bear the trial,
even before, the most unfriendly juries, let
us now, though looking with our own
eyes, borrow the spectacles of outside
viewers. We shall then see if these are
not signs of the Gentiles having acknow-
ledged the claims of that peculiar people
known to the world as the "Mormon"
community, but whom we look upon as a
chief branch of the root of Jacob, last

Digitized by

Google

66 views of "mormonism" and thb "mormons."

shooting out to form that mighty member
of great Latter-day Israel spoken of by the
Prophets as Zion, the hope of ail Israel
and the glory of the earth.

We presume that all our readers are
-well acquainted with the fact that the
Prophet Joseph Smith has been called
the American Mahomet, and " Mormon-
ism" classed with Mahometanism. Of
course, this by-name and parallel origin-
ated not with the Saints, but, like the
terms " Mormonism" and " Mormons, "
is of " Gentile 1 ' coining, though some-
times accepted by the Saints by wav of
convenience. The name of the American
Mahomet was applied to Joseph Smith
almost from the very first appearance of
that remarkable man; and " Mormon-
ism, " almost from its very birth, has in
its growth and type been likened to Ma-
hometanism. So correct is our statement
that nearly everybody who has heard or
read of " Mormonism" and the " Mor-
mons" from Gentile sources has found
the name of Joseph and Mahomet coupled,
, and the religious systems founded by the
Eastern and Western Prophets classed
together and likened one to the other.
Moreover, so far from the currency of
this parallel being of recent date, it was
more current ten or fifteen years ago than
it is now, not only in America, but also in
England. Latterly Brigham Young, the
successor of Joseph, has been brought
out to the public view, to be wondered at
and howled at just as was his matchless
predecessor; but about ten or fifteen
years ago, in every place in England
where the Saints had established Branches
of their Church, or were likely to establish
them, both the clergy of the Church of
England and the Dissenting ministers
made it a great point to preach about the
u American Mahomet," and "pious"
tract distributors were busy in freely cir-
culating tracts published by the " Reli-
gious Tract Societies," in which the
epithet of "the American Mahomet" was
verv conspicuous. It also became, and is
still a pet idea of the higher and more
favourable class of non - a Mormon"
writers upon the subject, to compare the
rise, progress, history, and developments
of "Mormonism" to the rise, progress,
history, and developments of Mahometan-
ism, and to view Joseph as the American
Mahomet of the nineteenth century.

In applying to Joseph the epithet of
« American Mahomet," and in likening the

great Latter-day Work, of which, in the
hand of God, Joseph is the key, to the
work and mission or Mahomet, the object
of and-" Mormon" writers and anti-
" Mormon" pulpit and platform de-
claimed is very evident. The special
object was, of course, to blacken the pro-
phetic character of Joseph. By stirring
up the deep and traditionary abhorrence
of all good orthodox Christians to Ma-
homet and Mahometanism, they could
most successfully throw the venom of not
only their own spirits, but also of po-
pular prejudice, upon Joseph (the great
Prophet of the West) and his disciples,
by comparing him to the great prophet
of the East, whose followers, a few cen-
turies a^o, shook Christendom to its very
foundations. Thus was Joseph lifted up
to the world as the modern type of Ma-
hornet, whom Christians look upon as the
greatest • false prophet of any age ; and
thus was the Latter-day Work compared
to that Mahometan movement and work
which the people of Christendom are edu-
cated to look upon as the great arch-
enemy of Christianity.

But although, evidently, the chief de-
sign of anti-" Mormons," in calling
Joseph " the American Mahomet," and
likening "Mormonism" to Mahometanism,
was to blacken the prophetic character of
the great Latter-day Prophet and his
mission, yet this very likeness drawn bj
Gentile hands is a striking illustration of
the Saints as empire-founders, and of
"Mormonism" as an empire-founding'
religion. In fact, the parallel is, after all,
much more in our favour than against us,
and illustrates more strongly the stupen-
dous work and destiny of tne Saints than
was intended by our enemies. Of course
the Saints do not endorse the comparison
which anti-** Mormons" have made be-
tween Joseph and Mahomet, nor receive
the parallel drawn of their missions and
works. We look upon it, not as upon a
correct portrait, but as upon a caricature,
which, although it distorts the original,
yet brings out certain strong points and
features. For instance, let us state the
caw thus : —

Mahomet was one of the greatest reli-
gious empire-founders that has ever ap-
peared on the stage of humanity to play as
a principal actor in the great drama of the
rise and fall of empires; and Mahometanism
was one of the most stupendous religious
developments of any age. Its rise, pro-

Digitized by

niws or "hormonhm" and rat "uoMtoKs.'

, and success were marvellous ; hun-
of millions bowed down to its
founder as a great Prophet, and his mis-
son and work built up and became the
mil and religion of empires. It con-
quered and subdued famous- nations,
looted up and supplanted old corrupt and
-djing institutions and civilizations, cast
down old dynasties, and established new
ones; and not only did its power and
overturning* and remodelhngs and
empire-foundings extend from Arabia, its
lirthplace, throughout the domains of
"heathendom ; but it grappled with all the
nations of Christendom, shook Christen-
dom to its very centre, fought for gene-
rations against the finest and most warlike
chivalry that the world has ever seen, and
gave birth to those wars of the Crusades,
covering a period of centuries, in which
the bravest kings, knights, and soldiers
of England, France, Germany, Italy, and
general Europe fought.

This is a glimpse of the Mahometan
side of the case. Now for a glance at the
"•Mormon*' aide.

In the first place, we do not accept as
faithful portraiture the likeness drawn
"between Mahomet and his work and mis-
sion and Joseph and his work and mis-
MtL Moreover, the mission of Joseph
does not usher in an anti-Christian dis-
jtoosation; but his work is a continuation
of the work of Christ and his Apostles,
md be is the after-comer and representa-
tive of Christ, and not his rival. In
Joseph's case it is not as it was with Ma-
tfeomet in his relation to Christ. In the
:«ase of Mahomet, it waslshmael contend-
ing with the seed of promise, or the son
-or Ishmael fighting for the birthright
and empire against Jesus, the Anointed
t>ne of the seed of Isaac, the child of
jxonaise. After being permitted by God
to go forth conquering and performing
neat empire-founding works throughout
those vast dominions where the God of
. Jus father Abraham had permitted the son
of Hagar to hit his conquering standard,
bad the religion and disciples of Ma-
homet swallowed up also Christianity, and
conquered those warlike knights and sol-
diers of Europe who fought for the name
of Christ and the sign of the cross
against all the infidels and heathen na-
tions who sought to supplant the name
and empire of Jesus, — had the nations of
Christendom been also over- run and con-
quered by the disciples and soldiers of

Mahomet, and the cross trampled under
foot, and the crescent planted in its stead*
then had the name and mission of Christ
perished, and Mahomet and his followers
would have conquered the world, and held
the empire thereof. , But the case of
Joseph is altogether different. He is not,
in fact, an American Mahomet. He i&
not the rival of Christ — not the Tahmi^l
contending for the empire and birthright
against the seed of promise i nor will the
name of Christ perish, if the name of
Joseph prevail,— nor the mission of the
Son of God be cut off, if the mission of
God's Latter-day Prophet and Restorer
triumph and obtain the empire. No: the
case is the reverse of this. He is Christfa
chosen representative and embodiment:
he is, so to express it, the revela-
tion and manifestation of God and
Christ to mankind in these latter
days. His mission opens not an anti-
Christian dispensation, but opens a new,
greater, and Universal dispensation, re-
vealed to succeed the old, worn-out, and
perverted Christian economy and dispen-
sation as represented by apostate Chris-
tendom. His mission is also to farther
extend the name and dominion of Christ,
and unfold a grand universal empire,
embracing not only what is now called
Christendom, but rolling the dominion of
a renewed Christianity over East, West,
North, and South, until to the altar of*
Christ the knee of every soul on earth
shall bow.

We see, then, that Joseph is not an
American Mahomet, and that the parallel
drawn between Mahometanism and a Mor>
monism" is not a good one. Nor are the
rise, progress, institutions, growths, his-
tory, ana destiny of the followers of the
Prophet Joseph like those of Mahometan-
ism. The Latter-day Church and Kingdom
has not grown, nor will it be built up, fike
the Mahometan empire. It has not a
military mission, nor has it been built up
by the sword, nor will it be built up or
extended by military aggression and coo-
quests. But it has been built up, and
will be extended towards its great des-
tiny and empire, by the preaching of the
Gospel and the gatherings together of the
people of God from all nations, to form
his kingdom of latter days. Thus it was
born, and thus it has been unfolded, and
thus have the Saints gathered together to
form the soul of the Divine Millennial
empire ; and they have grown toward*.

Digitized by Google .

vjiws of "homoxvm" Am xra" mormons.*

by their preaching of the " Mormons," the Saints apnea

108

nationality by their preaching of the
Ctospel, and their gatherings together,
and their foundings of cities and set-
tlements, — by then* marvellous social
growths, industry, and enterprises, and by
their forced exoduses from the Gentiles,
whom the God of Israel made his instru-
ments to drive out his people into larger
fields, to find more room and the won-
• derful destiny in store for them. From
a tiny body of six members, the Latter-
day Church has grown until the Saints
liave built cities* Jaid oat many new set-
tlements, been driven time after time from
those cities and settlements, to build up
new and greater ones, vastly extended the
frontiers of. America and tne boundaries
of civilization, astonished the world by
their wonderful doings, forced repeated
and loud admirations from even their
Tntterest enemies, and founded a young,
vigorous nation in the Rocky Moun-
tains, which shall become the giant soul
of a Divine empire. Thus it has grown,
and thus it will advance/ while He who
overrules die rise and fall of empires, and
hold the reins of , all power and dominion
in his hand, will turn and overturn, and
prepare the way, and unfold his kingdom
to succeed the fast crumbling na-
tions, empires, institutions, and powers
that be.

T>ie rise, growths., mstitutions, mission,
•and destiny of (what the Gentiles term)
m Mormondom" are, we see, very different
"from those of Mahometandom. We are
willing, however, to accept the likeness
which our enemies have , painted for
Joseph as the American Mahomet in the
'light of a strong caricature stamped with
* many bold and remarkable features. In
fact, it amounts to the GentiU acknow*
lodgement of the empire-founding Saints,
It is their caricature of the greatest Pro-
phet sent of God to prepare the second
advent of Christ. His great Prophetship
and mission appears before them and
ibrcea an acknowledgement; and while
they martyr him and seek to exterminate
Iris Mowers and destroy his work, they
paint him from the model of one whom
they view as the greatest false prophet,
and compare the rise and progress of the
community of Saints to that wonderful,
empire- founding, conquering religion of
Mahometandom, which once nearly
reached even the empire of the world.

Looking through Gentile spectacles,
then, in viewing "Mormonism" and the

" Mormons," the Saints appear not leas as
empire-founding people, with a great
destiny before them, and their religion
not less a divine empire-founding religion,
even as was the religion and mission of
ancient Israel under Moses and the
Prophets.

We consider this parallel which out-
siders have made between " Mormonism*
and Mahometani8m as a remarkable ad-
mission wrung from the enemy of the
empire- founding character of the work ha
which the Saints are engaged, and as fore-
shadowings in the minds of the Gentilea
of the great destiny and empire of the
Latter-day Kingdom, as embodied in the
mission of Joseph and his disciples.

The view af Joseph as the American
Mahomet, and the comparison made*
both by the bitter enemy and the more
friendly sceptic, between bin! and one
who was as great a religious empire-
founder as any who has ever appeared,
may be considered as the enemy's admis-
sion that Joseph was one of the greatest
of Prophets and a chief among the head*
of religious empire-founders. It is true,
this likeness drawn of him as the Ame-
rican Mahomet is open to much objec-
tion and many exceptions from a u Mor-
mon " critic ; and it is also true that the
rise, progress, developments, mission, and
destiny of the Church of Latter-day
Saints do not find their original in Ma-
hometanism ; and the parallel made between
the two works and missions is not the
proper one. Still, it may be taken as a
remarkable admission, absolutely wrung
from the enemy, of the forceful, giga^tic^
all-conquering character of the work and
mission of the empire-founding Saints,
and as, a striking testimony, bearing out
the claims which we make for Joseph as
the mightiest of Prophets.

We do not offer it as the Saints 9 admis-
sion, neither is it according to their word-
ing of the claims of Joseph, nor is it
according to our view of "1 formonistn"
and the "Mormons." It is the Geni3e
admission of the empire-founding cha-
racter of the Saints, or, as we have named
them, Latter-day Israel. It is the Gentile
wording of the claims of Joseph and the
conquering character of his mission, and
their view, and not our view, of "Mor-
monism" and the "Mormons."

We look upon this Gentfle admission,
however, and this Gentile wording of the
claims of, so to speak, the great father and

Digitized by

SIGNS OF ALARM IS TO COMlOfeClAL WORLD.

levrgiverof Latter-day Israel, to be quite as
strongly illustrative as anything that the
Saints can say of the immensity of the
mission of the Prophet Joseph, and quite
as illustrative of the empire-founding
character of the work in which his dis-
are engaged. Moreover, when we
into account that the view of
Joseph as the American Mahomet, with
the parallel drawn between MahometanUm
and "Mormonism," not only originated
with our bitterest foes, but was also
csment in the very infancy of the Church,
we are still more forcibly struck with the
gnat significance embodied in the enemy's
comparison and parallel; for surely that
. Prophet whose force was so overpower-

ing as to wring from his bitter foes,
almost from his first appearing, the
epithet of" the American Manomet," must
be at least one of the mightiest of Pro-
phets; and that work which, even in Us
infancy, could command from its de»
clauqers a parallel drawn from one of thst
most stupendous empire-founding reli-
gions, must surely be itself essenftitty
a stupendous work and irreaistthlf .
forceful.

But we will farther state the ease in our
next view, and farther show up the oosnV
manding character of the mightiest
of Prophets, and the irresistible fstee-
fulness of 4he most stupendous of
works.

SIGNS OF ALARM IN THE COMMERCIAL WORLD-

(From the "Liverpool Mercury " of Jan. 19, 1861.)

a The intelligence from America by the ;
A*flo~ Saxon caused great excitement on i
Hshaage, and will be read with the deepest |
interest throughout the kingdom. The se- :
cession of the Southern State* was all but j
mm Accomplished fact. In less than a month
all the Cotton States will doubtless follow
She example of South Carolina. These
gone, the Border States, as they are called,
ena scarcely be retained* by the Northern
Confederation; and be it for e?U trior
good, unless the North can conquer the
South vi H ami*, a great Southern Republic
will be constituted within a short space of
time — probably before the expiration of the
next six months. The confederacy thus
tensed will be scarcely less powerful than
the late United States.

But we axe now face to face with the

rsat peril of a civil war ; for such it will be,
the Federal Government should, as it
threatens, unsheath the sword. The mo-
nseut the first shot is fired, all chance of
raising- anything like an average crop of eet-
ton this year will be utterly hopeless. Apart
from ait questions of pure philanthropy, to
as in Lancashire this is a most alarming eon*
slim a dsn. What will become of the two
to three millions who ia this eouifty alone
are dependent for their very existence on a
Ml supply of cotton ? What will be the
result to the spinners and manufacturers,
who have Invested a fabulous amount of ca-
pital fas mills and machinery? Cotton or
afai iistlua to the ofwratrvst cotton or ruin
4a aM eagasjed to the cotton tsuds m the

| cry which will soon be raised, if means asa>
I not immediately found to avert the calamity/
| which now appears so imminent— a deadly -
I struggle between the free soil and Slave
: States of the North American oonthieattt
It is in vain to persuade ourselves that
money will bring us the raw material etk
which our marvellous industry lives ant)
thrives. If the separation of tbeStassjenotr
uncompromisingly opposed to each otfcsr
cannot be peaceably effected, little if any
cotton can be raised in America pending Iha
issue of the fearful conflict that muttensauw
And what if the slaves should rise dmriaer
its continuance ? We dare not trust osnv
selvee to measure the magnitude of the lean
that would be inflicted on this country; or
to contemplate the crushing weight of thm
blow which would be dealt against our ma-
terial prosperity. The only ray of hope}
which now illumines the future is to be>
sought for In the faint expectation that aha
great American Union may be peacefully/
rent asunder. Even io this caee,-the labossr
of 4,000,000 slaves will be disorganised* far
a year at least, and the next crop of oottots _
be reduced te a figure out of all proportion
to the immense oonsunrptioa of the world.

These are « the issnerof life and death*
to our marvellous industry which are now
before us, and which fully account for the
abnormal position of the staple here, rising
in value day by day, despite the steady aaV
vance in the sate of discount, and the eoaw
tinaous now of specie to A»ee*car

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOttPH MHTM,

HISTORY OF J06EPH SMITH*

(Continued from page 39.)

[March, 1844.]

Friday, 8th. Very heavy rain all
night, accompanied by thunder.

IHshop Miller arrived from the Pinery.

At ten, a.m., my scribe, W. Richards,
called to tell me that James Arlington
Bennett was a native of Ireland, and
therefore was not constitutionally eligible
to be the Vice-President. He wanted to
know who should be nominated for Vice-
President. I told him to counsel with
others on that point, when he said he would
call a council this evening.

At seven, p.m., the First Presidency,
the Twelve, Bishop Miller, Levi Richards,
W. W. Phelps, and Lucien Woodworth
assembled in the Mayor's Office, when
W. W. Phelps read the following pacific
communication, which I had previously
dictated him to write :—

-"A FRIENDLY HINT TO MISSOURI.

One of the most pleasing scenes that can
transpire on earth, when a sin hat been
committed by one person. against another, it,
io forgive that sin ; and then, according to the
sublime and perfect pattern of the Saviour,
pray to our Father in heaven to forgive
sslee.

Verily, verily, such a friendly rebuke is
like the mellow zephyr of summer's ere— it
— othci, it cheers and gladdens the heart of
the humane and the savage. Well might
the wise man exclaim, ' A soft answer
turaeth away wrath;' for men of sense,
Judgment, and observation, in all the various
periods of time, have been witnesses, figura-
tively speaking, that water, not wood, checks
ike rage of fire.

Jesas said, « Blessed are the peacemakers,
far they shall be called the children ol God.'
Wherefore, if the nation, a single State,
ejeeamunlty, or family ought to be grateful
far anything, it it peace.

Peace, lovely child of heaven I— peace, like
light from the same great parent, gratifies,
estimates, and happifies the just and the
unjust, and is the very essence of happiness
below, and bliss above.

He that does not strive with all his
powers of body and mind, with all his
influence at home and abroad, and to cause
others to do so too, to seek peace and
aasiatain it for his own benefit and con

venience, and for the honour of hie States
DatioD, and country, has no claim on the>
clemency of man; nor should he be entitled
to ate friendship of woman or the protec-
tion of Government.

He is the canker-worm to gnaw his own
vitals, and the vulture to prey upon his owa
body; and he is, as to his own prospects and
prosperity in life, a felo-de-se of his own
pleasure.

A community of such beings are not far
from hell on earth, and should b* let alone
as unfit for the smiles of the free or the
praise of the brave.

But the peacemaker, O give ear to himt
for the words of his mouth and his doc trine?
drop like the rain, and distil as the dew.
They are like the gentle mist upon the
herbs, and as the moderate shower upon the
grass.

Animation, virtue, love, contentment,
philanthropy, benevolence, compassion, hu-
manity, and' friendship push life into Miss?
and men, a little below the angels, exer-
cising their powers, privileges, and know-
ledge according to the order, role*, and
regulations of revelation, by Jesns Christ,
dwell together in unity ; and the sweet
odour that is wafted by the breath of joy
and satisfaction from their righteons com-
munion is like the rich perfume from the-
consecrated ol that was poured upon the*
head of Aaron, or like the luscious fra-
grance that rises from the fields of Arabia*
spices. Tea, more,— the voice of the peace-
maker

Is like the music of the spheres-
It charms our souls and calms our fears ;
It turns the world to Paradise,
And men to pearls of greater price.

So much to preface this friendly hint to*
the 8tate of Missouri ; for, notwithstanding;
some of her private citizens and public
officers have committed violence, robbery*
and even murder upon the rights and per-
sons of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, jet compassiont dignity,
and a sense of the principles of religion,
among all classes, and honour and benevo-
lence, mingled with charity by highminded
patriots, lead me to suppose that there axe
many worthy people in that State who will
use their influence and energies to bring
about a settlement of all those old difficul-
ties, and use all consistent means to urge
the SUte, for her honour, prosperity, and

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY QF J06»fH SMITH,

good name, to restore every person she or
bor citizens have expelled from her limits,
to their rights, and pay them all damage,
that the great bodj of high-minded and
well-disposed Southern and Western gentle-
men and ladies — the real peace-makers of a
western world, will go forth, good Sama-
ritan-like, and pour in the oil and the wine,
till all that can be healed are made whole ;
and, after repentance, they shall be forgiven ;
for verily the Scriptures say, * Joy shall be
in heaven oyer one sinner that repents,
more than oyer nmety-and-nine just persons
that need no repentance.'

Knowing the fallibility of man, consider-
ing the awful responsibility of rejecting the
cries of the innocent, confident in the virtue
and patriotism of the noble-minded Western
men, tenacious of their character and stand-
ing, too high to stoop to disgraceful acts,
and too proud to tolerate meanness in
others; yea, may, I not say, without boast-
ing, that the best blood of the West, united
with the honour of the illustrious fathers of
freedom, will more, as the forest is moved
by a mighty wind, to promote peace and
friendship in every part of our wide-spread,
lovely country.

Filled with a love almost unspeakable,
and moved by a desire pleasant as the dew
of heaven, I supplicate not only our Father
above, but also the civil, the enlightened,
the intelligent, the social, and the best
inhabitants of Missouri, — those that feel
bonnd by principles of honour, justice,
moral greatness, and national pride, to arise
in the character of virtuous freemen from
the disgrace and reproach that might inad-
vertently blur their good names, for want of
self- preservation .

Now is the time to brush off the monster
that, tacufau-like, seems banging upon the
reputation of the whole State. A little
exertion, and the infamy of the evil will
blacken the guilty only ; for is it not written,
4 The tree is known by its fruit '?

The voice of reason, the voice of hu-
manity, the voice of the nation, and the
voice of Heaven seem to say to the honest
and virtuous throughout the State of Mis-
souri, Wash yourselves, make you clean, lest
your negligence should be taken by the
world, from the mass of facts before it,
thai you are guilty !

Let there be one unison of hearts for
justice ; and when yon reflect around your
own firesides, remember that fifteen thou-
sand once among yon, now not, but who are
just as much entitled to the privileges and
blessings yon enjoy as yourselves, like the
widow before the unjust judge, are fervently
praying for their rights.
» When you meditate upon the massacre at

Haun's-miU, forget not that the Constitu-
tion of your State holds this broad truth to
the world, that none shall ' be deprived of
life, liberty 9 or property, but by the judg-
ment of his peers or the law of the land.'

And when you assemble together in
towns, counties, or districts, whether to
petition your Legislature to pay the damage
the Saints have sustained in your State, by
reason of oppression and misguided seal, or
to restore them to their rights y aocording to
Republican principles and benevolent de-
signs, reflect, and make honourable, or
annihilate, such statute law as was in force
in your State in 1838,— viz., « If twelve or
more persons shall combine to levy war
against any part of the people of this State,
or to remove forcibly out of the State or
from their habitations, evidenced by taking
arms and assembling to accomplish such
purpose, every person so offending shall be
punished by imprisonment in the Peniten-
tiary for a period not exoeeding five years,
or by a fine not exceeding five thousand
dollars, and imprisonment in the county jail
not exceeding six months.'

Finally, If honour dignifies an honest
people, if virtue exalts a community, if
wisdom guides greatmen, if principle governs
intelligent beings, if humanity spreads com-
fort among the needy, and if religion affords
consolation by showing that charity is the
first, best, and sweetest token of perfect
love, then, O ye good people of Missouri,
like the woman in Scripture toko had lost
one of her ten pieces of silver, arise, search
diligently till you find the lost piece, and
then make a feast, and call in your friends
for joy.

WithMuc consideration,
1 am the friend of all good men,

Joseph Smith.

Nauvoo, 111., March 8, 1813."

Brother George A. Smith brought the
information that brother Farnham had
just returned from St. Louis, and said
the people in that place were savins',
" Things have come to a strange pass. If
Joe Smith is elected President, he will
raise the devil with Missouri ; and if be
is not elected, he will raise the devil any-
how."

It was agreed that Colonel Solomon
Copeland, living at Paris, Henry County,
Tennessee* should be written to on the
subject of the Vice-Presidency ; and that
Elder W. Woodruff should write the
letter, and invite him to visit us, and see
if he would suffer his name to run for
that office.

. (7*6* co ns u me d.)

Digitized by

' XWfOBltt.

THE RATTER-DAT SAINTS 1 MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 1861.

HINTS to the Saints.— As the time for the emigration of the Saint* iff fast
approaching, we feel led to advance a few ideas connected with this subject for their
consideration. It is a difficult thing, we know, to make people who have not had
any experience, away from home, in travelling, &o., comprehend every particular so
clearly as those who have had this experience. They cannot obtain altogether from
theory that knowledge which experience alone can bring. If they could, it would
be superfluous for us to add anything ; for the wise counsel and instruction given to
years past, through the columns of the Star and the personal presence and abundant
teachings of experienced Elders among the Saints, would be sufficient to place them
in possession of almost every item of knowledge they would need. If die fiaints*
however, would treasure up in their hearts and put into practice, so far as they hare
the opportunity, all that they are taught upon this and other subjects by those who
have the right to teach, they would be saved much trouble and annoyance ia
their Journey from their homes in these lands to the gathering-place. We do not
now remember an instance of trouble or difficulty experienced by any of the Saints,
that has, coma within the range of our observation, but what originated either in their
total disregard of plain, pointed counsel, or in their hasty, unadrised action, without
first seeking to obtain counsel from those who bad the spirit and the authority ia
impart it. And in every instance of this kind, if the feeling actuating them at the
4m* had been traced to its souroe, it would have been found that it sprang from di*i>
Mst in the integrity or ability of those placed to counsel them.

There are a few individuals occasionally met with, in almost every large oompany
of Saints, who seem to be continually haunted by a fear that there is some advantage
going to be taken of them in some way or other. They seem, to he miserable than**
selves, and they make everybody else feel disagreeable that may have anything to do
with them, by their unworthy suspicions. The falsehoods so industriously circulated by
our enemies, respecting the motives which animate the Elders and tie objects they
have in view, they seem to partly believe; and such a belief, as ail who have any
experience in the Gospel well know, never finds any lack of food to sustain and
strengthen H. We wish, thus far in advance of the time of emigration, to warn the
Saints, in all good feeling and brotherly kindness, against indulging in such -Jean-**
against permitting distrust and doubt to take possession of their mmds in relation to
the Priesthood. Whether they emigrate this year or next, we hope this warning
will not be unheeded. But especially do we wish to impress it at present .upon those
whoiattn&jfco emigrate this season, as, by observing; it, they will bt saved 'from many
evil (thoughts and temptations, and consequent difficulties.

We'know that the few persons -who may be found m the Church harbouring and
cultivating the kind of feeling of Which we speak point to instances of failure -on
the fpart of some individual or individuals who have held the Priesthood '(very shnflar
in tfcis respect to those outside the Church who denounce usj) aa evidences Jftaj
they are justifiable in being distrustful and auajiaoua. But a*e» if ttoir, allegations
against Elders were as true as they .mnasiant lhwn to be, what does it prove ? Dqea

Digitized by

ft prove that all who bear the Priesthood must be distrusted and ,sust>ected< > Does
it justify any iiiJiarbouriug the thought that all the Elder* are acting from sinister
motives ? If there should be Elders met with who would so far descend from the
dignity of their high and holy calling as to take advantage of the Qainjts, or act
dishonestly towards them, should the Saints therefore lose all confidence in the
£riesjftood ? No, they should not; and we wish it borne in mind (though the eases
may be often met with,) that their confidence in the Priesthood should not be destroyed.
The bord requires his Saints to be obedient to his Priesthood. If any who bear it do
wroogf he attends to them. We never saw an instance of an Elder acting dis-
honestly, or taking a wrong course of any kind, that did not himself suffer to a far
greater extent than the obedient Saints connected with him or under his oare. He
injures himself far more than he can possibly injure them. When the Saints are
obedient to the requirements of the Lord on this point^he overrules everything for their
good* so that in the end they are not the losers.

The Saints, then, in all their intercourse with the Elders, should feel and act
towards them as servants of the Host High God sent in their midst to benefit and bless
them, and should never permit distrustful thoughts and causeless suspicions of them
to have place within their bosoms. The Priesthood is bestowed upon these men, that
they may be saviours to a certain extent to their fellow-men ; and they, to magnify H,
have in many instances left all they hold dear on earth. If they derogate from the
dignity of it by improper conduct, they themselves are the greatest sufferers.

Whether it be in the securing of passages across the ocean, or from the point of
debarkation on the other side to the frontiers, or from the frontiers to the Valley, —
whether it be in the purchasing of cattle, waggons, provisions, &c, or whatever it
may be, let the Saints rest assured that' the Elders, whoever they may be, that will
act as agents for them in these things, have manifold more inducements to do right
than they can possibly have to do wrong. What the Saints would lose individually
or collectively by these men's improper conduct sinks into insignificance compared
wkh what they themselves would lose. Our remarks upon these points may seem to
be uncalled for; but we make them because we have repeatedly witnessed the evil
effects of a want of confidence on these matters. Those who lack tins gift can be
tried on aH these things from the outset of their journey until they reach Zion.
Where due is the condition, Satan is not slow to take advantage of their inex-
perience.

In preparing for the journey, the Saints should use a wise discretion in the selec-
tion of articles to take with them. Everything that is not absolutely necessary
should be dispensed with, and baggage should be as light and compact as possible.
We have often been surprised at the large amount of baggage a company, of Saints
too poor to go other than by handcart have had with them, and much of it, too, so
worthless, that, if it were sold, it would hardly pay the carriage. Yet they would
cling to it with wonderful tenacity, and put themselves to great straits to have it
taken through. The less baggsge the Saints have, if they have enough to make
them comfortable, the less care and expense they have, and the more pleasant their
journey will likely be. Many persons, in their anxiety to get as much through as
possible, almost wear themselves out on the Plains, besides not unfrequently losing
catt)e,&#,, through overloading* Before starting, they see a great many articles
affciea they think they will need; and if they have the means, they purchase them ; ban

«&av sjieji Meioutbe mad, and after fey reach the Valley, it is by no means unusnal
itetthap M> utiau- that they had net b*» so hasty ^expending tfefejna*ns infcL

towing the dictates of fancy.

iDlTORIAt.

The Saints who went to the ▼alleys of Utah in the first yean of its settlement
could not take muoh baggage with them, for the best of all reasons — they had it not
to take. Their recent expulsion from the state of Illinois had left them nearly des-
titute. But if they had had plenty, they would have had but little room for it, as
they had to load their waggons with provisions to sustain themselves until they could
produce grain from the earth. There were no sheep there, except those they took with
them,— no woollen machines, no tanneries, no manufactories of any kind, — nothing
save the free elements, and solitude unbroken by naught but the savage beast and sull
more savage man. Yet they lived, enjoyed good health, and prospered, setting V*
example to those who should come after them of confidence in God, which all would
do well to imitate. Whether a living can be made there now, or not, is no longer a
question. The people are fast progressing towards an enviable independence; and
the Saints who now emigrate there do so under very different auspices from those
under which the Saints then went. As things now are, we would much rather see
the Saints go there, even if they went entirely destitute of baggage, than to see
them stay with the design to accumulate things to take with them. M Is not the life
more than meat, and the body than raiment ?"

Notice. — As a matter of convenience to us in the keeping of our books in this Office,
we shall feel obliged if the Presidents of Conferences will hereafter close up their
accounts to the las* day of each month, and forward their remittances from the 1st
to the 6th of the succeeding month.

As this is a time of the year when, owing to the emigration of the Saints, many
transfers are being made from the Individual Emigration Accounts of the Conferences
to the credit of individuals, we wish all such orders, before they are transmitted to us,
to be signed by the District Presidents. as well as the Presidents of Conferences*
The Presidents of Districts may not have the means of knowing at all times whether
s the orders to which they may affix their signatures be correct or not. But if, when they
countersign an order, they will take an account of the amount, they can after wards*
when the opportunity offers, see that it is correct. By taking this course, they will
be able, with the assistance of the monthly statements which we will furnish them
from our books of the credits of each of the Conferences in their Districts, to keep
themselves well informed as to the financial condition of their Districts. They should
be well acquainted with all the affairs of their Districts— finances as well as everything
else. This is a responsibility resting upon them.

Arrivals.— By letter from President John Van Cott we learn that Elders
Jesse N. Smith, Wm. W. Cluff, and J. P. R. Johnson arrived in safety at Copen-
hagen, Denmark, on the 11th ult. They had a tedious trip of eleven days, owing
to the cold weather. Their route was from London to Brielle, in Holland ; thence
through Prussia, Hanover, Hamburgh, Schleswig, and Holstein, and over the Little
and Big Belts to Copenhagen.'

Departures.— Elders Nathaniel V. Jones and Jacob Gates sailed for New York
on the steamship Arabia, on Saturday, the 19th ult. These Elders return to the
United States for the purpose, at present, of making preparations for the coming'
season's emigration. May the blessing of the Lord accompany them in all theit
endeavours to accomplish their mission !

CHEismtfiTY and "mnuomMu."

75?

CHRISTIANITY AND " M0BM0NI8M."

BY KLBIB S. 1* SXOAlf*

(Contimed from page 66.)

Having glanced at the social position
of the first advocates of Christianity, and
tried to look at a few naked facts con-
nected therewith, it may not be oat of
place if we briefly notice the general
facilities they possessed for propagating
the Gospel which they presented to the
people, and the nature and character of
the evidence adduced , in support of it.
It ma? be that, in our investigation, we
shall find that the present generation
have not much more to pride themselves
upon than the generation to whom
Christianity was first presented ; and in
their condemnation of the Jews for their
rejection of Christ and Christianity their
own condemnation is written for the
rejection of Joseph Smith and "Mor-

It would be no very easy matter now
for an individual propagating a new
doctrine of belief to enter the various
churches and chapels throughout Christen-
dom, take np the Bible, read extracts
therefrom, and in commenting upon these
extracts proclaim the peculiar views which
he advocated. In fact, such a thing
could not be done. No peripatetic
preacher would be allowed to occupv any
pulpit in these days of extreme liberal
views (1) unless he came well recommended
to the clergyman who claimed the right
of teaching the people in that particular
place, and unless his religious opinions were
np to the standard adopted by the reverend
gentleman whose pulpit he was about to
occupy. Yet the custom of the Jews,
wfaicn allowed strangers in their midst of
the house of Israel to read portions of
* the law and the prophets" in the syna-
gogues to the people, afforded many
facilities for the Saviour and his fol-
lowers to draw attention to the prophecies
which declared his advent ana spoke of
the work he had to accomplish. Hence
we often read of their entering the syna-
gogues and teaching the people. If they
had lived in the nineteenth century, they
would have found this extremely difficult,
if not altogether impossible.

Then, as now, the Gospel found its

earliest supporters, staonchest adherents,
and most single-minded and purest advo-
cates among the poor; and the Messiah,
himself declared to the disciples whom
I John sent to him, as one of the signs of
I his actual presence among men, that the
poor had the Gospel preached to them*
[ While the learned, the proud, and the
| wealthy were ministered unto by " whited
; sepulchres" of piety, who made long
| prayers, yet devoured the substance
I the widows and fatherless, the poor, who
1 required consolation and comfort, — the
I " gullible," "ignorant" poor, who had their:
\ hearts cheered by a balm for all their,
pains, and a solace for all their sorrowsy
could " rejoice in the Holy One of Israel/*,
( and look forward with bright hope to a
I blissful future, when "the meek should
inherit the earth." When a few of these.
1 poor, but staunch and tried believers met,
together, after the vain and fond hopes,
j of the unthinking masses were blasted by,
j the death of Jesus, they were glad to,
, assemble in an "upper room," go from
house to house to "break bread," or.
| gather themselves together in small groups/
m out-of-the-way places and private habi-
tations, cheered and blessed in their little,
j meetings by the outpourings and gifts o£
| the Holy Spirit. How like, in thehv
| character, were those little meetings to,
I many addressed bv the Elders of this,
dispensation 1 and in their simple-minded
communion together, how perfectly do,
they agree with the sweet heavenly,
fellowship-meetings of the Latter-day.
Saints, where the testimonies of all who
give utterance to the Spirit of Truth,
within them are alike acceptable before.
God ! I am not finding fault with the
vast congregations of fashionable re-»
liffionists assembling in their splendid,
churches to worship according to their
various forms of belief; but before they
sneer at the simple, unadorned worship o£
the "Mormons," when they assemble in
their small and often inelegant halls, or
unite together for testifying in "upper
rooms" and private houses, before the.
fashionable professors of modern Chris*

Digitized by

■tianity torn away contemptuously from
these, let them remember that in places
of precisely such character, and under
like circumstances, were those great
truths often declared which the Son of
God died to bequeath to mankind, and
that system of religion established which
has changed the very destiny and cha-
racter of nations and communities. Let
them remember not to despise " the day
of small things;" for though "Mor-
monism* may appear small in the eyes of
the natfens, and the u Mormons 9 few in
number, when compared with the re-
ligionists of Christendom, yet the strides
of the Latter-day Work to universality
have been so rapid and firmly placed, that
it has made more progress in the past
quarter- of-a-century than Christianity
made during the first hundred-and-fifty
years after its establishment ; and already
the eagle of truth, perched on its moun-
tain eyry in the far West, glances at the
kingdoms of the world and prepares to
spread its brooding wings in power
over the nations.

In briefly examining the evidences
adduced in support of Christianity by its
founders, it is with no spirit of infidelity,
or a desire to depreciate their value, that
the subject is approached, but rather to
try and strip from them some of the false
drapery in which tradition has shrouded
them. Commentators and expounders
have been trying for centuries to improve
on the arguments of the Apostles or old,
as far as they have had a chance of
becoming acquainted with them, and have
tortured every conceivable item in the
old prophecies concerning Messiah to
appear a plain prediction of his first
advent ana mission, till it does appear to
the many as if the generation to whom
Christ personally ministered were most
■wofully bHnd and wilfully culpable
in not receiving him, his mission, and his
agents, with such palpable and over-
whelming evidence to support the validity
of his claims.

Three kinds of evidence could be
offered to the Jews by Jesus and his
Apostles — the testimony of the Prophets
in whom they believed, the testimony of
miracles or manifestations of power dis-
played in their midst, and personal
testimony embodying their own expe-
rience and the assurance of the knowledge
4hey had received.

Now, these are precisely the kinds of

evidence offered by the Latter-day Saints
to this generation. The testimony of the
Prophets who lived antecedent to the
coming of the Saviour, strengthened by
the prophetic declarations of himself and
Apostles, manifestations of the power of
God, substantiated by thousands of living;
witnesses, and personal testimony, strong-
pointed and conclusive, as well as philoso-
phical evidences continually accumulating
as the character of the great Latter-day
Work is unfolded.

"But," says the objector to «Mb§v
monism,* 9 " you introduce and teach
doctrines which are not contained in the
holy Scriptures." This is an objection
worth considering from our present point
of view, as it cuts directly against the
objector. Doctrines are advanced by the
Latter-day Saints which the Christian
world say are not in accordance wrdt
Holy Writ ; but each sect advances doe*
trines which all the rest stoutly maintain
are not sustained by the Good Book, while
they have as yet been unable to prone the
first item of doctrine advanced by the
"Mormons" to be contrary to the spirit
and revelations of the book on which they
take their stand. Now, Christ and bis
Apostles, in introducing Christianity, not
only pursued a oourse entirely at variance
with that expected of the Messiah whert
he would appear, but also proceeded to
institute heaven-given laws and ordi-
nances of a higher character than those
then in force, and opposed to their national
prejudices. Instead of girding on the
sword and striking for the freedom of his
nation then groaning under the galling
bonds of a foreign yoke, he wandered
around with bis disciples as an itinerant
teacher of the people, laying the broad
axe at the root of the tree around which
their prejudices were entwined. The
rites and ceremonies of the law had been
for centuries the pride and the boast of
the children of Israel. Every shadow
and symbol of it was rendered dear to>
them by the traditions of the past. This
was not a mere sectional or party feeHng
growing out of the views, opinions, or
traditions of a sect, but a great under-
lying principle of the Jewish character
manifested in many a bloody field and
borne out through many a day of fiery
affliction. And even in their years of
partial apostacy and hardened rebellion*
they clung with eager tenaciousnees to
those mystic rites bequeathed them by

Digitized by

This strong feeling and
traditional power the Saviour had to
eocounter at every step of his thorny
sefth* "Have we not Moses and the
l>repbet*?" was the boasting question
propounded to him whose mission was to
fulfil the typical acts and prophetic de-
clarations of "Moses and the Prophets."
Think, then, what must have been the
bitter feelings aroused in the bosoms of
the zealously pious and devout adorers of
m system venerable with age, and clothed in
she fond traditions of many centuries — a
often Divinely approbated in the
i unmistakeable manner,— what must
have been their feelings against the Christ
Jesus of humanity, when be proceeded
So establish a higher system than that
of the Mosaic economy 1 But while
he shattered to pieces the traditions of
the Elders and the multiplicity of
minute Pharisaic ceremonies, he left
untouched the bread groundwork of their
religious worship. That sacred code de-
livered to Hoses on Sinai's mount, amid
flashing lightnings by the voice of God,
said held by them dearer than their lives,
heappuedaiid "fulfilled." Yet their lofty
temple gracing Moriah's sides, and hal-
lowed by a thousand sacred renumseenoes,
in which the " holy of holies" was veiled

from all but the hkh priest's or his
assistant's eyes, he declared to be doomed
to the destroyer, and the vengeance of
Heaven wasdenouneedageinsta people who
fondly imagined themselves the favoured
and chosen of God ; and all this by a low-
bom " Naurene," whose disciples were
unlearned and plebeian like himself, and
his followers found among the ignorant
masses, and who was so looked upon with
contempt that a Nieodemus had topaJy
a stealthy visit to him by night, not
daring to brave- the contumely of an open

'o say that Christ had the power and au-
thority to establish a superior economy is tt>
to reason Eke a child. TPs are not dis-
puting the power and authority of Christ.
Not only the Son of God, hut every man
commissioned by Jehovah has authority
and power to execute hie mission. But
the Christian world repudiate the authority
of Joseph to declare the voice of God
unto this generation, while they so bit-
terly condemn the people to whom Chris-
tianity was first presented for rejecting
it, yes who had stronger and more power-
ful traditions to contend with, and reasons
equally as valid as anything that this
generation can pro d uce in favour of the
oourse they are pursuing.

(To U contimtmL)

CORRESPONDENCE.

London, January 15, 1861.

President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Having a few minutes
to spare, I have taken the liberty to
employ them in coinmunicating with
you. I am labouring in ejus city,
and have had district No. 1 of the
London Conference assigned me as my
field of labour. The district consists of
four Branches, meetings at one of which I
must attend nearly every night in the
week, besides twice or three times on
Sundays. So you will perceive I am kept
tasy. Our meetings are pretty well
attended, and we are not interrupted
in any way by those strangers who
favour us with their presence in our
assemblies, although , on Sunday even-

ing last we received rather a strange
communication at all our meetings in the
city. When coming out of the meeting-
room at Holbom, an individual whom, to
the best of my knowledge, I had never
seen before, and whom I took for one of
the perambulating advertisers that are so
numerous here, with a very stiff inclina-
tion of the head, thrust before me a
printed paper, which I accepte d , and
passed on. I learned, upon examining it,
that it was nothing less than a wanting,
by M an eye-witness," to all the people of
this country against certain w Mormon"
Elders who have recently come to tots
land for the purpose of disseminating the
principles of that u peculiarly blood-
thirsty ooinmsmity " who so delight to be-
hold the blood of their relatives and' the
people in general that they compass sea

Digitized by

Google

corAbspondinci.

•and land, travelling without purse or
scrip throughout most of the nations of
the globe, for the sole purpose of gather-
ing together the poor and ignorant of all
classes, that they may have the exquisite
satisfaction of "murdering" the small
minority that are so fortunate as to reach
their destination! What horrid people
they must be! Were it not that the
statement is signed by " an eye-witness,"
it would seem almost incredible. And
what surprises me more than anything
else is their profound secrecy ! To think
that I should have lived right in the midst
of them for so many years, and yet
•know nothing of all these horrid crimes,
-is perfectly astounding to me! It would
afford me considerable satisfaction to read
a detailed account of the " hair-breadth
escapes and perilous accidents by flood and
field which must have characterized the
tflight of this "eye-witness." But as he
does not give his name and address, I
must remain ignorant of the particulars,
-and console myself with the idea that lam
warned*

Since I have been here, it has been quite
cold, and numbers of men, in consequence
- of the frost, are out of employment, many
of whom are singing through the streets,
that they may excite compassion of the
people and pick up a few pennies for their
subsistence. I have heard nothing from
home since I was at Liverpool.

With love to yourself and brethren, I
remain yours affectionately,

George John Taylor.

SCOTLAND.

8t Leonards, Edinburgh, Jan. 21, 1801.

Dear Brother George Q. Gannon, — With
much pleasure I communicate with you
at this time. I have got round again as
far as Edinburgh from the north country.
The Saints in that quarter are feeling
'first- rate, and the brethren labouring in
the ministry are doing the very best they
know how. They have taken hold of the
spirit of the Gospel with renewed energy.
There is every prospect of a great work
being done in that section of country, and
I rejoice to say that the Church is swell-
ing in numbers throughout auld Scot-
land.*

I have enjoyed the society of brother
Btuart for the last few days. We had a
splendid time of it yesterday. A number

of the Branch Presidents were present,
whose hearts were made glad through
the teachings of President Stuart. Tne
Spirit of God was there, and all felt well
and desirous to carry out those teachings
in practice.

I intend visiting the different Branches
that compose this Conferenoe under the
direction of brother Stuart, and pray that
the Lord will qualify me for the position
in which I have to move.

From this Conference I shall go to
Glasgow, and in all my movements be
subject to the counsels of the District
President. I am enjoying good health
and spirits, and desire to be alive to all
the interests of the work in which we are
engaged. Pray for me, brother George,
that I may be enabled to administer to
the wants of the people in all humility
before God. Allow me to congratulate
you with a hearty welcome to this land ;
and may the God of Israel bless you in
all your administrations.

My kind love to all the brethren.
Yours in the Gospel,
William S. Baxter.

* [ There has been an addition by baptism
of about 66 during the last half-year.
Seven were baptized on the evening of
the 19th ult., at a little village near
Tranent. The President of that Branch
(brother W. Duncan) affirms that there
are numbers of young men and women
wishing to obey the Gospel there, but are
deterred at present by their parents and
friends' refusing permission. Ed. M. S. ]

WALES.

Cardiff, January 19, 1861.
Dear Brother George Q. Cannon, — I
improve the present moment to drop you
a line. We are in good health at present.
After leaving Nottrngbam, where we
enjoyed ourselves much in meeting with
the Saints and Elders, we had a pleasant
and agreeable time with the Saints in
Birmingham, had good meetings, and left
them on the 7th for Cheltenham, where
we found the Saints, with President Gib-
son and brother Moss, all well and in good
spirits. The Saints both in Birmingnam
and Cheltenham Districts are somewhat
better in their chances for living than in
Nottingham, but they are very poor ; still
they hope for deliverance from their pre-
sent oppressive circumstances, and are
anxious to reach their distant home in

Digitized by

SQMMAKT,

Cod ; and in their brightening hopes are
written the assurances of the ooward
movement of the work in these lands.

Bj news of this morning, it seems the
work is progressing in " tbe land of the
free and the home of the brave." The
weather here is somewhat milder now
than it has been for some time past, which
is very acceptable to ub.

Sunday, 20th.
We have entered upon the business of
our visit here by releasing Elder Benjamin
P. Evans from tbe Presidency of the
Welsh Mission, and appointing Elder
Thomas Jeremy to succeed him. We
Jnd a warm, good spirit among the
Saints, and many inquiries in reference to i

emigration. These we are but poorly
prepared to answer, for the want of know-
ledge ourselves on many points about
which the Saints seem anxious, such as
"Will we be counselled to go to the
frontiers, if unable to go any further Y 9
and like questions. We can only tell
them that when we are instructed we can
instruct the others. We shall leave here
on next Thursday for Merthyr, where we
shall remain until the following Wed-
nesday. We hope to see you, in a few
weeks, on our way to Scotland.

With kind love, we subscribe ourselves
your brethren in the Gospel,

Auasa M. Lyman,
Charles C. Rich.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Geszbal. — The Cologne Gazette states that the Porte is forming an army of 50,000
men, exehutve of the reserve, on the Danube, to be commanded by Omar Pacha. This
-demonstration is directed equally against the Principalities and against Russia. The latter
Power has assembled a large body of troops in Bessarabia, alleging as a reason to Austria
that Russia cannot allow the Principalities to become a focus of insurrection. A royal
-decree has been published in Copenhagen, calling out 6,700 sailors from the Kingdom of
Ttenm&rk and the Duchy of Schleswig. An attack by the Montenegrins on the town of
8puz has taken place. Arrests have been made in Rome, on account of the political
demonstration in the Apollo Theatre. A portion of the population of Gaeta had arrived
there. A despatch from Naples says that the bombardment of Gaeta commenced
January 22nd. Fourteen vessels were stationed before Gaeta. The reactionary bands
in the Abrnzzi have recrossed the frontiers.

American— The Official Gazette of the 6th ult. contains the following :— " On the
3rd of December, shortly after eleven o'clock, a.m., a severe earthquake was felt in this
capital [Savannah], which lasted about a minute. Afterwards there were less severe
shocks, which were scarcely felt, excepting last night about half past nine o'clock, when a
prolonged and strong shock made itself felt. At irst we thought it would have been
local, but we have since received information from distant localities, even as far as twenty
leagues in different directions, in which this same shock was not only felt, but which
caused much damage to the principal edifices." A combination is forming to take formid-
able possession of Washington on or before the 4th of March, to prevent the inauguration
of Mr. Lincoln. The President's reply to the Commissioners of South Carolina has just
been communicated. They demanded, as a preliminary step to the initiation of negotia-
tions, that the troops be withdrawn from the forts in Charleston Harbour* The President
positively refuses to do this, and reiterates his views in reference to the public property
as set forth in his Message to Congress, and informs them that he not only intends to coW
led the rerenue and execute the laws, but to defend the property of the United States
with all the power at his command. Prirate accounts from Charleston state that a thou*
-sand negroes are engaged in the erection of fortifications in the harbour, and that the
channels leading to Fort Sumter have been obstructed by sunken vessels, and the buoya
removed. Also that Governor Pickens has received the offer of 10,000 volunteers from
without the State, and who hold themselres in readiness to march at a moment's warning.
The Charleston Convention has passed a treason ordinance, making the levying of war
against the State of South Carolina punishable by death. The same Convention has also passed
am ordinance giving federal judicial power to the State Courts and congressional power
to the General Assembly. Tbe fort at Savannah has been taken by the State troops.
On the 11th ult. the State Conventions of Mississippi, Alabama, and. Florida passed
ordinances of secession from the United States. The ordinance of Alabama is similar to
that passed by 8onth Carolina, with an addition inviting all the Southern States to meet
her Convention for tbe purpose of forming a new Government at Alabama on tip 4th of

Digitized by

60 TABW»Wi*fWTM.

February. The ot*iaM6 ty atfopM by ft f*U et tl to tint c* llriktt fMasl
by a rote of 63 to 7. Tin StaU trbepi of Lomista* here taken ■o ese srio n of ibs Bertnro
Lodge Arsensl, with Forts Jackson, St. Philips^end Pkke. Resistenee wes offeror
Return i from Louisiana indicate that the Secessionists will hare a majority in the Convention*
Georgia is in possession of Fort PalmskL Despatches from Mobile, Alabama, ssy thafe
the United States Arsenal was taken on the 4th nit. by the troops of this eHy, which con*-
tained six stand of arms, 1,500 barrels of powder, 300,000 rounds of musket cartridges^
and other munitions of war ; also that Fort Morgan was taken on the same date by the)
Mobile troops, and is now garrisoned by two hundred men. Secession meetings are no\*
being held all over New Orleans. The highest excitement and enthusiasm prermil.
President Buchanan Is universally condemned.

VARIETIES.

Porn Adrian IV. was an Englishman— the only one who ever attained to that csgnetyi
He, was a native of Abbots Langley, and died, not without suspicion of poison, in 1148. >

A Vabkish made with one pound of sulphur boiled for half- an -hour in an iron vessel
is a perfect protection from damp to brick walls. It should be applied with a bms>
while warm.

An American editor thus puts a period to all doubt concerning the phenomena oa!
spiritual rappings : — ** The only true and legitimate manner of accounting for the raps is
the physiological delects of the membraneous system. The obtuseness of the abdominal
indication causes the cartilaginous compression to coagulate into the diaphragm, and
depresses the duodenum into the flandango. Now, if the rape were oansed by the rotations
of the electricity from the extremities, the tympanum would also revolve into spirttoal
xinctnm, and the olfactory would foment and become identical with the pigmen£un> Zroib>
this is not the case. In order to produce raps, the spiritual rotendnm must be elevato/i
down to the spiritual spero ; but, as we said before, the inferior ligaments must ant
subtend over the digniterum sufficiently to disorganize the stevieatum. After this, who
can doubt ? *

SUNDAY gCHOOL TEACHERS HYMN.

(Selected.)

tt&v sweet the hour, and soft the scene.
When heavenly light, with flow serene,
Shedding around its hely rays,
▲wakes the coldest heart to praise t

Escaped from scenes of earthly care,
We raise the song, and pour the prayer}
And consecrate, O God, to thee,
This hour of faith and unity.

Ife seek, by grace Dirinely taught,
To train the wild luxuriant thought,
And Lead the youthful heart to f>rtee
The joys that blossom in the skies :

The chains of terror to unbind-
To explore the regions of the nstnd,
And bring to Ugbt each hidden gem,
More rich than regal diadem.

From nature's rude unsightly heath,
Where grow the seeds of sin and death,
We seek the rankling weed to tear,
And plant the " Rose of Sharon** there.

Fain would we thus In union more,
As influenced by the Saviour's lore;
Our aim, our hope, our wish the earner*
To glorify our Leader's name.

G0NTEKT8.

Views of" Mormeniim" and the Mormons"... «5 George John Taylor.— Scotland : Letter from

Signs of Alarm in the Commercial World 69 Elder William 8. Baxtes.— Wales : Letter

History of Joseph Smith .... 70 from Presidents A. M. Lyman and Charles C.

Editorials- Hints to the Saints.— Notice.— Ar- Rich „.

rivals.— Departures 72 Summary of News and Passing Events ...

Christianity and Mormouism" „... 75 Varieties

Corr««ponOence.--Engl«nri : Lettei atom Elder Poetry .—Sunday School Teacher's Hymn.-*

LIVERPOOL :

EDI TED AND PUBLISHED BT OEOROE Q. CARHON, 42, »LIirOTOir.
LONDON:

rea sasr at the latter-day saints' book obf&t, 30, flohevc* srfcisr, cross strut , is&nrer**,'

AMD ALL BOOR SELLERS.

fRICTBD BT JAMS* AND HBBJUW K 5L SO UTS JOB* STRRST,. XVBBPQeX.

Digitized by

THE LATWK-PAT 8AINTS' ,

MILLENNIAL STAR.

" A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the'natisnsi
he trill plead with all flesh ; he will give thnn that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord." —
Jsrxmiab.

Ko. 6, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, February 9, 1861.

Price One Penny.

TOKENS OP DIVINITY IN " MORMONISM.'

BT ELDKtt 1. L. T. BABRISOW.

(Co nttmtid from page 44.)

CHAPTSB TTI.

MARRIAGE INSTITUTIONS.

We now carry on our readers to what
to m fresh beauties — still further
ens of a Divine Author in "Mor-
uaoniam" as seen in its marriage institu-

Ia times of men's ignorance of the true
na&ire and mind of God, and of the future
to- which they are moving, men and
women "marry and are given in mar-
riage" without consulting the Almighty.
And be " winks at it f for as mankind
bare not known whether beings above
tkem have any order or system in the
ghja,( |ii utter of the extension of life, they
mstoralk have not troubled to observe
aery to but a small degree. And as their
Teugions show no particular benefit on the
extension of human beings, but rather
him led. them to think that the multipli-
enttaon of human beings was only an
ajjlsjjjjiiit of sin and misery, they have'
mtjio particular motive sopphed them
ftr. vajag the powers of lire alone for
io? inrraaf .

k.we^laFe ever learned of the
7 moern religions, thcreguja-
e jjaner c matters L of the niarrUae
€j them to the nfercy of In*

instincts and passions of mankind. And
the whole future of the world's happi-
ness and progress is perilled upon toe
feeble chances of mankind discovering
for themselves individually the true laws
of their being, and having sufficient
strength of mind to carry them out with
a guiding point as far as their religion is
concerned.

Here " Mormonism," above all pro-
fessed religions, shines with the charac-
teristics of a divine scheme duly prepared
by the Author of our being ; for it gives
such views concerning the endless exist-
ence, extension, and ultimate, glory of our
race, that they display great beauty and
utility in the increase of the human
family. And not only that, 'but she
Latter-day Gospel makes the conduct of
mankind in relation to the use of the
natural powers of increase entrusted to
them a solemn and sacred affair inter-
woven in all the bearings of their duty to
man and God.

w l&rmonism" calk attention to die
absolute necessity, at all times, of prin-
ciples regulating the marriage life; but
it more particularly declares the neoeasity
of such laws at this period, because of
die present condition, and want* ff the
human family.

Digitized by

Google

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMONI8M*

It demands attention to this subject on
the ground that the dispensation called
the ** dispensation of the fulness of times"
has arrived and been ushered in by the
commandment of God; in which dis-
pensation, as it borders upon the ter-
mination of the period allotted to mankind
for their existence amidst increasing sin
and death, the great principles bj which
mankind can return to primitive vigour
and length of years have to be introduced
and practica l^ worked out, until death
and disease are driven back to the point
at which pur great forefather left them at
the close of his mortal career.

It is not necessary here to say much as
to the nature of the fall, further than that it
was an arranged and predetermined affair
caused in the wisdom of God to occur in
the line of human progress. A mortal
race was needed ; and Adam, being im-
mortal, had to fall, that he might be the
parent of that mortal race, who, by
sojourning amidst all the ills of mor-
tality, might be prepared, by the great-
ness of their experience in all the vicis-
situdes of life, to fill out in due course the
position of fathers and rulers in the king-
doms of the Eternal. To effect this, our
great progenitor broke one of the laws
which sustained him in immortality, and
descended to the conditions of death and
disease.

But still the powers and virtue and
strength of immortality were 1 within him
so powerfully that nearly one thousand
years rolled away ere this infraction of
the law of his being was able to destroy
him from the earth* His posterity addtd
sine of omission and commission — de-
bauchery, Jut** passion, and divers evils,
and weakened and reweakened 4he powers
of hie transmitted to them, until, m the
days <ef Noah* about 400 years could
cover tthecxtent of the life of man. And
eaebeueoscding generation has departed
*tatt reissue* from {the simplicity of truth*
hi»dly>and> spiritual, end more and mere
de*4royed^th^power-of bodily life which
came <wginally -frem the heavens, tiU in
omNdayitUrty years is reckoned as the
****** length of human exissenee-the
poor feeble Bickerings of thatnrigbty flame

J^^S^?^ P ro S** OT *tM
M^^^^nm.jSuh one thou-
sand —

J* *** has gone down,

1K» and vitality, with
" »> the- eternal future of

finally descending into the dark waters oP

extinction, leaving silence to reign upon
the face of the earth as once upon the
face of the mighty deep, to proclaim the
mastery of evil and the triumph of death.

But God, angels, and prophets have
declared that it shall not be. The voice
of prophecy has rung through the earth,
declaring the coming of a day when the
power of the Destroyer, which has been
silently but surely gaining ground over
the race, and threatening to destroy the
last remnant of the heavenly colony of
man planted upon this world, shall be
stopped and rolled back to its farthest
limit.

But this work could not be consistently
commenced till the times allotted man-
kind for probation and experience amidst
evil were running towards their close.
Hence it was reserved for the Latter- day
Work, when God, by gathering together
(as predicted,) his people from all parte of
the earth, would have an opportunity of
implanting among them principles and
practices that would tend to restore
natural life and vigour. Jesus did not
practically institute these measures, be-
cause Death, in his day, had still a long
portion of his lease to run. Hence some
of the laws -and institution v to. which we
shall presently refer, were never taught
by Jesus or his Apostles.

As before stated, the times for the
downward progress of mankind had to
run out. A living, powerful Gospel dis-
pensation in full association with the
heavens had then to be re- introduced.
The direct voice of the Eternal had again-
to reach the earth, and the great work te
be commenced under his direct super-
vision.

The Minding and unseriptural doctrine:
that any quantity of Scripture given s*-
any period in the past could peestbty
supersede or make unnecessary the direct,
management and control of the Eternnl
God over htsowncreatiouand amongst his
own ch il dren had to be broken in upon, and *
the rigbvthe wiH, and the purpose of the-
Almighty to eternattv interfere in the'
doings of men, end direct them tempo-*
rarity as well as spiritually in any channel
be pleased, had lobe re- asserted, lienv
.sent directly of QedVhed* consequently, to
appearand pracUcaUyloy the loondaf lest ,
ofWftutipns correepeoelne; to the hea-
venly organisation above. Holy
o* presiding euthe'

Digitized by

TO.KIiWoOF DIVINITY IN " ¥0*MON18*4\'

lions, had to descend ifom the skies and
-confer of their power and their authority
upon hviog men. The stream of re-
vealed intelligence had to commence to
flow, and thus connect the work here
upon the earth with the life, the power,
the wisdom, and the influence of these
heavenly beings behind the vail; for in
the mighty work of human restoration
the Eternal himself and all the powers of
heaven have their part to play to accom-
plish the great end.

And not only this: to restore the
powers of natural or bodily life, the prin-
ciples of the Gospel of Jesus Christ will
have to exert their influence on the min<J^
to tranquUize the soul, and still its
passions, its impatience, and its fretful-
ness, — to suppress its jealousies and its
strifes, to fill it with charity, to teach it
self-control, and to inspire it with a
knowledge of immortality and eternal
progress; for the effect of these con-
ditions of the mind is to tranquilize and
assist the natural workings of the physical
or bodily system, which every disturbing
passion and evejy unnecessary craving or
care weakens and destroys.

Attention has also to be paid to
every law of natural health ; and therefore,
as one great means to this end, is insti-
tuted the gathering of the Saints from all
nations to a healthy country, where they
can observe the laws of health, free from
the organization of old iron-bound
nations, where, in close unhealthy streets
or dark or sweating manufactories, science
and commerce are progressed at the
expense of life.

And to all this must be added attention
to the laws of reproduction of the species
All these means combined will tend to
bring each succeeding generation into the
world better and better prepared to resist
the attacks of disease. The generations of
mankind introduced thus into the world,
and growing up under the light, intelli-
gence, and influence of heaven, filled with
toe Holy 8pirjt, which in itself is a spirit
of life, will, under the guidance of the
Almighty through his servants, be led
dn^ng the great millennium to adopt
principle age* principle of life and resto-
ration, till, in the language of Isaiah
<kv. 20X he shall be considered "a
chfld* who "shall die a hundred years
old." The patriarchal strength, and
with it all its lengths of years, will re-
turn stage by stage; and to crown the

whole, (in the light of " Momonism,")
when the Lord comes, the righteous who
die shall not sleep in the dust of the earth,
but shall be changed in the twinkling of
an eye, to awake to life and immortality.
Towards this great purpose of the re-
generation of the race, as one means
towards the end, bear the marriage in-
stitutions of " Mormonism."

One of the great causes of bodily de-
generacy amongst mankind has arisen,
lFrom that abuse of the powers entrusted
to them for the propagation of their

r'es, to which we have referred. By
mass of mankind, so long as the
shield of the marriage rite has been
thrown around them, the indiscriminate
use of their powers has been considered
holy enough. Hence, both men and
women have, through their ignorance,
destroyed much of the strength and
vitality they should have sacredly pre-
served for the life, vigour, and happiness
of future beings, and introduced a weak-
ened and debilitated race into existence.
In addition to this evil, arising out of
carelessness and ignorance of the true
purpose of existence, the popular mono-
gamio laws (or the one- wife system) have
thrown k mankind into circumstances of
temptation to take a course calculated to
violate the purity and chastity that should
surround the mother when bringing her
offspring into existence, as well as to
deprive it of a portion of that life, vitality,
and energy that should have been de-
dicated to it alone. Mankind have
had either to take such a course or
to suppress the promptings of their
nature for a period greater than the
majority of men were ever likely to
observe.

And not only have these particular
evils grown naturally out of the want of a
guiding principle in religion in such
matters, combined with the rigid enforce-
ment of the one- wife system, but multi-
tudes of mothers have, as a necessary
consequence, been worn almost to their,
graves by giving birth to a greater num-
ber of children, and in closer proximity
to each other, than ^eir individual
strength allowed ; while the children
born have been deteriorated and deprived
of the strength and vitality that should
have been allotted to each, from the
fact that, long ere exhausted nature
in the mother had recruited itself she
was placed again in circumstances staking

Digitized by

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN "MORUONISM."

the same exhausting demands upon her
life and strength.

To remedy these and similar evils bj
the command of that all- wise and pro-
viding God who has taken in hand to
restore the race he originated to ancient
life and vigour, an institution called by
the world polygamy (because in a remote
degree it resembles established systems
bearing that name,) has been introduced
among other principles of the Latter-day
Kingdom.

But the system , to which we refer is
not " polygamy " as generally understood
by that word ; for associated with " Mor-
mon" polygamy are laws or principles
regulating the intercourse of the sexes,
ana doctrines dictating the principles
upon which alone the system can honour-
ably or purely exist; and not only this,
but doctrines of such a character con-
cerning this present world and the eter-
nity which is to come, that they tend to
press heavily home upon men and women
the necessity of being governed by such
restrictions. And it must here be dis-
tinctly understood that mere polyyamy
in the abstract " Mormonism does not
uphold, but condemns. It is polygamy
alone as associated with the guiding laws
and the high and holy motives as dictated
by the Latter-day Gospel that "Mor-
monism" upholds.

We cannot, owing to the nature of the
subject, explain here all that we could
wish; but we will state, in short, that
the laws to which we refer make the
increase and multiplication of the species
upon principles of purity and health, taken
together with the honourable and virtuous
love of family associations, and a desire to
become great on true principles in the
kingdom of God, the only true justifica-
tion for the practice of polygamy; and
as a principle, it gives no sanction for the
indulgence of the passions at any time,
except when good reasons exist for be-
lieving that such a course will tend
directly to the increase of life. They
also exhibit before mankind the necessity
of so governing themselves that the neces-
sary intervals may elapse between births
to enable each succeeding child born into
the world to have the benefit of a com-
pletely renewed system in the parent,
from whence to draw its fountain of
life. It will be evident to all reflecting
minds that polygamy places mankind
in a position to pay due respect to

these natural laws of purity, rest, T and
restoration. jgpg
< Let us now briefly show by what con-
siderations obedience to these and similar
restrictions is enforced by "Mormonism"
on the mind of the Latter-day Saint, in
connection with the system of polygamy.

First, then, he is urged to the dedica-
tion of his native powers solely to pur-
poses of increase, by the stimulating idea
of having a part in so grand a work as
the restoration of a better and healthier
race of beings — no small reason to those
who believe with all their souls, as tens of
thousands of Latter-day Saints do, that
such a work, under the direct supervision
of the Almighty, is now upon the earth.

Then "Mormonism" naturally tends to
produce obedience to these laws, govern-
ing the passions by the nature of its
views concerning immortality, in which
the Latter-day Saint, seeing that his
children and all his following generations
will (if faithful to all the commandments of
God,) be given to him for his glory — the
substance of all his hopes of exaltation, is
compelled of necessity to feel that, in-
regarding the laws of increase rigidly,
and governing his desires solely to that
end, he regards his own interest and his
own progress.

Associated with these views, the re-
ligion of the Latter-day Saint teaches
him that the disposition of his children is
more or less influenced by the spirit and
purpose of the parents : hence, unless he
would beget lust in the character of his
posterity, which "Mormonism" teaches
him would wear out and destroy his
generation, and thus annihilate his hopes
of progress, — setting aside the fact that
lust encouraged in the heart would damn
him in the sight of God, he must learn
to control his appetites and desires to the
purest purpose and motive alone.

Then does " Mormonism" appeal to the
Latter-day Saint, by all his love of
right — by all his hope of pleasing a pure
and holy God who cannot look upon sin
with the least degree of allowance ; and
each and all of these reasons that in
themselves appeal so much to man's own
interest, backed up and enforced by the
authority of the teachings of a Priest-
hood which every true Latter-day Saintr
testifies he knows, by the revelations of
the Spirit of God to himself, has been
replaced upon men by the administration
of holy angels descending from the skies,

Digitized by

BISTORT OF .TOSBPH SMITH.

«nd confirmed by the voice of the Eternal
Jehovah from the heavens ; to turn from
which would be to peril life and salvation.
By all these considerations, and many
others too lengthy to mention here, is the
polygamy of the "Mormons" a law of
purity, a law of restriction, and a system
consecrated to good and holy purposes.

Inasmuch as two opposite purposes
and desires cannot each have the supre-
macy at the same time within the same
bosom, therefore in the heart of the true
Latter- day Saint, lust is bound to die
out, being supplanted and displaced by
other motives and purposes that take
possession of his judgment and imagina-
tion, and naturally tend to inspire his
whole soul with reasons for another
course, wantonness of spirit appears to
the Latter-day Saint, more than it pos-
sibly can appear to the religionist of any
other creed, a most awful sin, and most
damning in its consequence ; for, as seen
by modern religionists, the effects of lust,
30 far as bodily injury to the race is con-

cerned, are confined to this little life. But
to the mind of the Latter-day S.iint who
sees the race of man as eternal — who sees
the beauty, progress, and happiness of
future states depending on the purity of
our present relationships, the conse-
quences of depravity stretch out into
the eternal future and distribute un-
limited curses around.

And now to . the sublimity and com-
prehensiveness of that great proposition
of " Mormonism " to resuscitate the race-
to the existence of principles that inspire*
men with motives that supplant lust
within the soul — to those doctrines of
" Mormonism" which make the conduct
of men in the inner relations of life a
sacred and holy affair, and to those great
views of eternity which, by making the
existence and increase of the race appear
of incalculable value to men, also tend to>
preserve the race of man upon the earth,
and thus do the work of a God, do we
point as still further tokens of divinity in
" Mormonism.''

(To be continued.)

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 71.)

[March, 1844.

Saturday, Oth. Met in the City Coun-
cil, and gave my reasons in favour of the
repeal of the hog law — that I was afraid
there were but few men who would ever
make a fence round their gardens, unless
the hogs were suffered to run at large;
and if the people think there is a hog law,
they will not fence, and consequently will
be eaten up by hogs and other animals from
the country.

" The hog law has made more contention
than ail the hogs would, if they had been
let alone. Let the hogs run in the streets,
and the people make good fences to secure
their gardens.

Many physicians have given it as their
opinion that a hog mud-hole ki the Btreets
is the most healthy of any damp place.

If we do not let the hogs run at large in
the city, the hogs and cattle from the
country will come into the corporation and
eat the grass, &c, in the city, and we suffer
. all the arils and lose all the benefits.

Bmpound the country hogs, and the

owners will damn the impounded and the
city, and fight against us. I say to the
City Council, Let the hogs and dogs alone.

A man that is afraid of a dog, and grum-
bles a great deal about a dog's barking at him*
is a coward. It is one reason why God
withdrew his Spirit from the earth, because
the people were so ready to take the life of
animals.

It was the principle of Democracy that
the people's voice should be heard when
their voice was just; but when it was not
just, it was no longer democratic. But if
the minority's views are more just, then,
aristarchy should be the governing prin-
ciple ; i. e. t the wisest and best laws should
be made.

When Alderman Bennett and Councillor
Young will call caucuses and explain the
subject to them, then we will hear them,
and they can petition understanding^ ; and
believed, if he conld explain the subject,
that ninety-nine out of every hundred would
vote to have no hog law in this city from ita
birth to its death.

Cannot believe in the doctrine of exalting
the majority, when it must be brought about
Digitized by *

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

by depressing the minority in a greater de-
gree.

Council adjourned for one hour."

In the afternoon, City Council rejected
the petition to repeal the hog law.

I proposed to license Hiram Kimball
and Mr. Morrison, who own the land
opposite to the wharf, to make wharves
and collect wharfage; then the city can
dispense with a wharf- master ; that Kim-
ball and Morrison pay a tax for the land-
ing of every boat ; and they could tax the
boat, or not, as they liked.

The Female Relief Society met twice
in the Assembly Room, and sanctioned
"The Voice qf Innocence," and then
adjourned for one week to accommodate
others who could not get into the room
at either of the meetings.

Our worthy brother, King Follett,
died this morning, occasioned by the
accidental breaking of a rope, and the
falling of a bucket of rock upon him
while engaged in walling up a well, and
the men above were in the act of lowering
the rock to him.

" Elder Follett was one of those who bore
the burden, in common with others of his
brethren, in the days when men's faith was
put to the test. He was a native of Ver-
mont, and moved many years since into
Cnyahoga County, Ohio.

There, for the first time, he heard the
Gospel preached, united with the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in the
spring of 1831, and has been a sharer in the
afflictions through which the Saints have
passed from that time until the time of his
death.

He shared in the violence of the Missouri
persecutions, was cast into prison, and
endured many months' imprisonment ; and,
after long delay, obtained a trial on the
charges preferred against him, and was
honourably discharged, being acquitted of
all the crimes that a band of wicked per-
secutors could charge him with.

All the persecutions he endured only
tended to strengthen his faith and confirm
his hope; and he died as he had lived, rejoicing
in the hope of future felicity.

Having united with the Church in the
forty- first year of his age, he filled up the
prime of his life in the service of his God,
and went to rest in his fifty-sixth year, being
fifty-five years, seven months, and fourteen
days old when he slept the sleep of death.

So the righteous pass, and so they sleep,
until the mandate of Him for whom they
auffcr and in whom they trust shall call

them forth to glory, honour, immortality,
and eternal life."

Sunday, 10th. Frost in the night;
beautiful day. South wind.

Brother King FoIIet was buried this
day with masonic honours. He waa
killed while at work in a well, by a tub-
filled with stone falling on him.

I attended meeting at the stand, and
preached on the subject of Elias, Elijah,
and Messiah ; a sketch of which was re-
ported by Elder W. Woodruff, as fol-
lows : —

"There is a difference between the spirit
and office of Elias and Elijah. It is the
spirit of Elias I wish first to speak of; and
in order to come at the subject, I will bring
some of the testimony from the Scripture
and give my own.

In the first place, suffice it to say, I went
into the woods to inquire of the Lord, by
prayer, his will concerning me, and I saw
an angel, and ne laid bis hands upon my
head, and ordained me to be a Priest after
the order of Aaron, and to hold the keys of
this Priesthood, which office was to preach
repentance and baptism for the remission of
sins, and also to baptize. But I was in-
formed that this office did not extend to
the laying on of hands for the giving of the
Holy Ghost ; that that office was a greater
work, and was to be given afterward ; but
that my ordination was a preparatory work,
or a going before, which was the spirit of
Ellas ; for the spirit of Elias was a going
before, to prepare the way for the greater,
which was the case with John the Baptist.
He came bawling through the wilderness,
'Prepare ye the way of the Lord, and make
his paths straight/ And they were in-
formed, if they could receive it, it was the
spirit of Elias ; and John was very particular
to tell the people ' he was not that light,
but was sent to bear witness of that light.'

He told the people that his mission waa
to preach repentance and baptize with
water; but it was he that should come after
him that should baptize with fire and the
Holy Ghost.

If he had been an impostor, he might
have gone to work beyond his bounds, and
undertook to have performed ordinances
whioh did not belong to that office and calling,
under the spirit of Elias.

The spirit of Elias is to prepare the way
for a greater revelation of God, which is the
Priesthood of Elias, or the Priesthood that
Aaron was ordained unto. And when God
sends a man into the world to prepare for a
greater work, holding the keys of the
power of Elias, it was called the doctrine
of Elias, even from the early ages of the
world.

Digitized by LiOOQ IC

HISTOKY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

Jena's mission was limited to preaching
*wd baptizing ; bmt what be did wo legal ;
and when Jeaas Christ came to any of John's
'disciples, be baptized them with fire and the
Holy Ghoat.

We find the Apostles endowed with
*e*reater power than John : their office was
T asore under the spirit and power of Elijah
tfcan Elias.

Ia the case of PhiHp when he went down
to Samaria, when he was under the spirit of
J3ias, he baptized both men and women.
When Peter and John heard of it, they went
down and laid hands npdn them, and they
received the Holy Ghost. This 6hows the
distinction between the two powers.

When Paul came to certain disciples, he
naked if they had received the Holy Ghost?
They said, No. Who baptized you, then?
We were baptised nnto John's baptism.
Ho, yon were not baptized nnto John's
baptism, or yon would have been baptised
by John. And so Paul went and baptized
'them* for he knew what the true doctrine
*wae, and he knew that John had not bap-
tised them. And these principles are strange
"to me, that men who have read the Scrip-
tures of the New Testament are so far from
it*

What I want to Impress upon your minds
is the difference of power in the different
'parts of the Priesthood, so that when any
man comes among yon, sayings * I have the
spirit of Elias,' you can know whether he
be true or false ; for any man that comes,
having the spirit and power of Elias, he
will not transcend his bounds.

John did not transcend his bounds, but
faithfully performed that part belonging to
his office;* and every portion of the great
building should be prepared right and
Assigned to its proper place; and it is
necessary to know who holds the keys of
power, and who does not, or we may be
likely to be deceived.

That person who holds the keys of Elias
bath a preparatory work. But if I spend
much more time in conversing about the
npwit of Elias, I shall not have time to do
Justice to the spirit and power of Elijah.

This ia the Elias spoken of in the last
days, and here is the rock upon whic|i many
nplft, thinking the time was past in the days
of John and Christ, and no more to be.
But the spirit of Elias was revealed to me,
and I know it is true ; therefore I speak
'with boldness, for I know verily my doctrine
k true.

Now for Elijah. The spirit, power, and
•ailing of Elijah is, that ye have power to
hold the keys of the revelations, ordinances,
'evasion, powers, and* endowments of the
fatness of too MelcMsedec Priesthood and
ffjht kingdom of God on the earth ; and

to receive, obtain, and perform all the ordi-
nances belonging to the kingdom of God,
even unto the turning of the hearts of the
fathers unto the children, and the hearts of
the children unto the fathers, even those
who are in heaven.

Malaohi says, ' I will send Elijah before
the great and dreadful day of the Lord
come, and he shall turn the hearts of the
fathers to the children, and the hearts of the
children to the fathers, lest I come and
smite the earth with a curse.' '

Now, what I am after is the knowledge
of God, and I take my own course to obtain
it. What are we to understand by this In
the last da ys?

Io the days of Noah, God destroyed the *
world by a flood, and he has promised to
destroy it by fire in the last daya: bat
before it took place, Elijah should first oome
and turn the hearts of the fathers to the
children, &c.

Now comes the point. What is this
office and work of Elijah ? It is one of the
greatest and most important subjects that
God has revealed. He should send Elijah
to seal the children to the fathers, and the
fathers to the children.

Now was this merely confined to the
living, to settle difficulties with families on
earth ? By no means* It was a far greater
work. Elijah 1 what would you do if you
were-here? Would yon confine your work
to the living alone ?. No ; I would refer you
to the Scriptures, where the subject ia
manifest: that is, without us, they could
not be made perfect, nor we without thein ;
the fathers without the children, nor the
children without the fathers.

I wish you to understand this subject, for
it is important ; and if you will receive it,
this is the spirit of Elijah, that we redeem
our dead, and connect ourselves with our
fathers which are in heaven, and seal np our
dead to come forth in the first resurrection;
and here we want the power of Elijah to
seal those who dwell on earih to those who
dwell in heaven. This is the power of
Elijah and the keys of the kingdom of
Jehovah.

Let us suppose a case. Suppose the great
God who dwells in heaven should reveal
himself to Father Cutler here, by the open-
ing heavens, and tell him, 'I offer up a
decree that whatsoever you seal on earth
with your decree, I will seal it in heaven
you have power then : can it be taken
off? No. Then what you seal on earth, by
the keys of Elijah, is sealed in heaven ; and
this is the power of Elijah, and this is the
difference between the spirit and power if
Elias and Elijah; for while the spirit of
Elias is a forerunner, the power of Elijah
is sufficient to make our calling and election

Digitized by VjOOg IC

EDITORIAL.

rare; and the same doctrine, where we are
exhorted to go on to perfection, not laying
again the foundation of repentance from
dead works/ bnt of/ laying on of bauds,
resurrection of the dead, &c.

We cannot be perfect without the fathers,
Ice. We must have revelations from them,
and we can see that the doctrine of bevei,a-
tion as far transcends the doctrine of no
revelation as knowledge is above igno-
rance; for one truth revealed from heaven
is worth all the sectarian notions in ex-
istence.

This spirit of Elijah was manifest : .n the
days of the Apostlea, in delivering certain
ones to the buffetings of Sitan, that they
might be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
They were sealed by the spirit of Elijah unto
the damnation of hell until the day of the
Lord, or revelation of Jeflus Christ.

Here is the doctrine of election that the
world has quarrelled so much about; but
they do not know anything about it.

The doctrine that the Presbyterians and
Methodists have quarrelled so much about —
once in grace always in grace, or falling
away from grace, I will say a word about.
They are' both wrong. Truth takes a road
between them both; for while the Pres-
byterian says, ' Once in grace, you cannot
fall,' the Methodist says, ' You can have
grace to-day, fall from it to-morrow, next
day have grace again, and so follow on
changing continually.' But the doctrine of
.the Scriptures and the spirit of Elijah
would show them both false, and take a

(To be a

road between them both ; for, according to
the Scriptures, if men hive received the
good word of God, and tasted of the powers
of the world to come, if they shall fall away,
it is impossible to renew them again, seeing
they have crucified the Son of God afresh,
and put him to an open shame ; so there
is a possibility of falling away : jou could
pot be renewed again, and the power of
Elijah cannot seal against this sin, for this
is a reserve made in the seals and power
of the Priesthood.

I will make every doctrine plain that I
present, and it shall stand upon a firm
basis, and I am at the defiance of the world,
for I will take shelter under the broad
cover of the wings of the work in which I
am engaged. It matters not to me if all
hell boils over; I regard it only as I would
the crackling of the thorns under a pot.

A murderer, for instance, one that sheds
innocent blood, cannot have forgiveness.
David sought repentance at the hand of
God carefully, with tears, for the murder
of Uriah ; but he could only get it through
hell : he got a promise that his soul should
not be left in hell.

Althongh David was a king, he never did
obtain the spirit and power of Elijah and
the fulness of the Priesthood; and the
Priesthood that he received, and the throne
and kingdom of David is to be taken from
him and given to another by the name of
David in the*last days, raised up out of his
lineage.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 1861.

A Word of Caution. — In consequence of the change that has been made of late
in the mode of raising the necessary means to defray the expenses of places of wor-
ship, Elders' support, &c, &c, and the want of comprehension on the part of many
of the Saints as to what is really expected of them, there may be some difficulty in
some of the Conferences in making " ends meet." There are a great many wants
that must be supplied, and there are a great many wants which those who have-
them think ought to be supplied, and altogether making a burden of no small weight
(especially when funds are low, as they generally are at present,) on the shoulders of
those who may have the charge of these matters. We can readily perceive thai
under these circumstances it requires considerable management on the part of pre-
siding officers to keep matters moving along as they should, without incurring debt
and bringing themselves and Branches and Conferences under serious obligations sod

encumbrances. There are some who are very hopeful for the future : they think

Digitized by Google

CHRISTIANITY AND "MORMONISM," 89

that the embarrassments under which the Branches and Conferences are now labour*
ing in regard to funds are temporary, and that but a short time will elapse before
things will be in a more favourable condition than they are/ at present; and with this
-view they feel no fear about running in debt, having. the idea that means will be
forthcoming after awhile to meet it. There are others who neither think nor care
beyond present wants. If they can be supplied, it matters not to them how many
debts are incurred or how they are to be liquidated.

While entertaining a3 many hopes for the future as the most hopeful, we do not
fed to recognize in the least degree the wisdom, propriety, or necessity of incurring
debts to supply present wants on the vague and uncertain hope of future ability to
meet them. Indeed, we protest against such a course. It was the celebrated John
Randolph, we believe, who on one occasion declared on the floor of Congress — " I
have discovered the philosopher's stone ! It consists of four short words of homely
English — 'Pay as you go!'" And certainly all who have had any experience in
business know that, to say the least, it is an excellent maxim.

In no part of this Mission should the expenditure exceed the income. No tempta-
tion should induce those who have the supervision and charge of these matters to
swerve in the least from this rule. Those who have seen individuals or Branches,
, Conferences or Missions in debt know what a bondage it is, and how grievous it is
to be borne. In this country particularly, where the means of the Saints are limited
and come in slowly, it takes a long time to relieve them from liabilities of this nature,
and great care should be taken to avoid incurring them. This Mission has just
emerged from under a load that has weighed heavily upon it, and which has taxed all
its energies to get rid of ; and we hope to see all satisfied with the experience which
the past has afforded them on this point.

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

BT ELDBB B. L. SLOAN.

(Continued from page 77.)

The books of the Prophets are thickly
-studded with predictions concerning the
advents of Messiah, his mission to man,
and the universal kingdom of peace which
be would establish upon the earth ; but
the Lord, in his great wisdom, often gilds
ifce flinty path o'er which his children
must travel with glintings from the sunny
heaven which marks the goal of their
aspirations.

So with the ancient Prophets. Having
-the vision of their minds opened to the
regenerating future for the human family
in the mission of the Only Begotten, they
loved to dwell on the triumphal glories of
that time when be would gather back his
scattered sheep from their long wander-
ings, seise the reins of earthly government,
judge with iustice and reprove with
. equity, and fill the whole earth with the

power and glory of Qod. Hence their
prophecies pointed more particularly to
the Latter-day Work and its culminating
grandeur — to that period when the know*
ledge of God shall cover the earth as the
waters do the channel of the great deep,
and when the Lord Messiah shall reign
King of nations, to whom every knee shall
bow. It was not so strange, therefore,
that the Jews fell into the error which in
its results proved so fatal and terribly
calamitous to them— an error illustrative
of the human character. Having every
confidence and an unshaken belief in their
Prophets, to whose heaven-inspired voice
the chronicled woes and blessings of many
generations bore faithful testimony, was
it any wonder that they passed lightly
over the few brief predictions relative to
Messiah's first advent, which they could

Digitized by Google

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORM6NI8M

easily account for by summing them up
as peculiar incidents in a momentous
career, and feasted their souls on the
might of his power, the majesty of his
name, and the greatness of his triumphs?
Poor fallen human nature is ever eager to
grasp at the shadow of power and great-
ness, not realizing that permanent exalta-
tion and eternal glory are only Obtained
through fiery struggles and by bitter
experience.

No Prophet utters so many solemn
predictions concerning Messiah s painful
career as Isaiah, "the evangelical Pro-
phet." Yet, O Christian ! who so readily
condemneth the Jew of a former dispen-
sation, try and s imagine yourself in his
place for a brief period, stripped of all
your, knowledge of the past, which he had
not, and the traditions which now sur-
round you, — glorying, as he did, in the
coming of a mighty Prince to rule in
majesty and power upon the throne of David
for ever, and tell me if you can recognize
the stable-born, meek, suffering, down-
trodden, spit- upon, thorn- crowned, and
crucified Jesus in this portraiture: —
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a
son is given ; and the government shall
be upon his shoulders ; and his name shall
be called Wonderful, Counsellor, the
Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the
Prince of peace. Of the increase of his
government and peace there shall be no
end, upon the throne of David, and upon
his kingdom to order it and establish it
with judgment and with justice from
henceforth even for ever." (Isaiah ix.
6 and 7.)

So strongly did this feeling imbue the
people that the kingdom would be re-
stored to Israel upon Messiah's appearing,
and so few were the prophecies which
pointed with certainty to his humiliating
career, that the fickle multitude who
strewed his path into Jerusalem with
branches of palms fully expected that the
day of their national glory and greatness
had dawned, and that Rome would be com-
pelled to succumb before the prowess of
the long-expected Christ; and even bis
own Apostles, who had been with him on
the lone mountain top, or at midnight
hour on the blue waters of Galilee, who
had listened to his teachings and drank
in the knowledge he poured forth, who
had beheld his ignominious death and
were witnesses of nis glorious resurrec-
tion, — even they gave utterance to the

deep-rooted expectations of Judah' wheat
they queried, as he was about to leave
them for his mediatorial throne, "Lord,
wilt thou at this time restore again the
kingdom to Israel?" (Aots i. 6.) And
so closely were his advents of humiliation
and exaltation allied in the minds of the
former- day Saints, that many of them
expected his appearing in that generation
to consummate his work upon the earth.
Hence we find Paul labouring to set their
minds at rest upon the subject by assuring
the Thessalonians that the coming of the
Lord was not so nigh as many antici-
pated, and that that day should not come*
unless there came a falling away first.
(2Tbess. ii.)

Notwithstanding the opinion so gene*
rally entertained at the present time that
the Prophets spoke definitely and point-
edly concerning Christ's first advent, it is
a fact that the founders of Christianity
could refer to very few Clear predictions
of the inauguration of his mission to the .
Jews; and the few to which they could
refer were so peculiarly surrounded in
their fulfilment by unlooked-for and al-
most inexplicable circumstances that the
honesty of the Jews as a people was
severely tested. Doubtless they had
many traditional prophecies of which we
have now no record ; but of those handed
| down to us and quoted from by the evan-
' gelists very few are of that plain decisive
| character which is generally assigned to>
! them by the present generation. Hosea-
did say that Bethlehem should have the
honour of being his birthplace, which*
through a peculiar circumstance, it had,—
Joseph having gone up from his residence
| at Nazareth to his native city, Bethlehem,
I that he might be taxed according to the
[decree of Augustus. Yet in Nazareth
I was the Saviour brought up, and as a
| Nazarene was he known and recognized
, among his countrymen, who looked for
l a Bethlehemite in their Prince and
Messiah. Looking at it now, this peculiar
fact may seem confirmatory of his mis-
sion ; and so it was : but would the mass
of the people then stop to weigh and con-
sider the worth of such a statement con-
cerning the fulfilment of prophecy ? Do
the people now permit their calmer judg-
ment and sober reason to decide on the
strangely peculiar fulfilment of many pro-
phecies in these last days? or do they
iudge hastily and condemn unwisely*
being swayed by prejudice and preoo%

Digitized by CjOOg [C

CHRISTIANITY AND " MCRMONISM."

ceived opinion? It is but a trifling cir-
coinstanoe that we have quoted, yet it
was considered of sufficient importance
to be noticed and chronicled by the Evan-
gelists when writing to strengthen the
faith of those who had already accepted
Jesus as their Saviour.

The time bad arrived when the Messiah
should appear, and all Israel looked with
eager anticipation for his coming; but
the Prophets had not prepared them for
such a humiliating commencement to his
career as that with which they were brought
into actual acquaintance. It is true that
several remarkable circumstances occurred
about the time of his birtb, which had in
them a weight and influence with the %
honest Jews ; but these will be considered
under the third kind of evidence offered
to the people — namely, personal testimony.
The Prophets had declared many things
which were fulfilled about the time of his
coming, but they did not state that these
predictions had reference to the advent of
Messiah. One instance will suffice in-
stead of many. Jeremiah declared th*t
"A voice was heard in Ramah, lamentation
and bitter weeping ; Rachel, weeping for
her children, refused to be comforted, be-
cause they were not." (Jer. xxxi. 15.)
This we find, according to Matthew, was
fulfilled in the slaughter of the children
at Be&lehem by Herod's orders: but
who, on reading the passage through, pre-
vious to its fulfilment, would imagine that
it had any reference to the coming of
Messiah, or was in any way connected
with his appearance among men? No
one, unless inspired by the same Spirit
Which moved upon Jeremiah when he
wrote it. Several prophecies were plainly
fulfilled in his death and the circum-
stances which attended it; but these
could not be referred to until after his
career had closed, when the doom of the
Jewish nation was sealed for rejecting
' and crucifying him who came to save and
redeem them. And so little were these
predictions understood prior to their ful-
filment that his very Apostles were igno-
rant of their character and point till they
were verified in his death ! Of these
might be cited his " making bis grave
with the rich* (Isa. fiii. 9\ " being num-
bered with transgressors ' (Isa. liii. 12),
having his "garments parted" (Psalm
anrfi. 16), not being suffered u to see cor-
irfaJtion, &c., which any one who care-
1 Mly reads the texts with their contexts

will see the difficulty of being understood
previous to their being fulfilled.

But to be brief and sum up a little on
this part of the subject : Very many pre-
dictions are on record concerning the
advents of the Lord Jesus, but few of
which referred to, or were fulfilled in, his
first appearance on the earth. Hence
most of them refer to a dispensation
other than the Christian one— a dis-
pensation unlooked for by the Christian
world, and the very idea of which is re-
pudiated by it, — a dispensation which
"Mormonism" professes to inaugurate
and consummate. If the Jews as a peo-
ple were condemned for rejecting the
prophecies which pointed to the Saviour
in his humiliation, what will be the posi-
tion of Christendom for rejecting the
prophecies pointing to the preparation for
his advent in power and glory ? Those
prophecies which were not fulfilled when
he established the Gospel upon the earth
some eighteen centuries ago must yet be
fulfilled, according to the Christian belief.
" Search the Scriptures," then, ye Chris-
tians of every sect and creed ; " for in
them ye think ye have eternal life, and
they are they which testify" of the estab-
lishment of that kingdom to the throne
of which Messiah will yet come in
majesty and power — that kingdom which
Joseph the Prophet was ordained to lay
the foundation of, and which " shall never
be thrown down, nor given to another
people." The Jews as a nation were
broken because they stumbled and fell on
the stone of which the Prophets wrote
and spoke ; but the nations of Christen-
dom have so much clearer prophetic evi-
dence of the establishment in power of
God's work in the last days, that, for
their rejection of it, it will fall upon
them and grind them to powder. I do
not quote the prophecies of Jesus and
his Apostles, as they were no evidence to
unbelievers who beard them delivered,
though powerful to those who witnessed
their fulfilment, any more than I do not
quote the prophecies of Joseph, which
were laughed to scorn by those who
heard or read them previous to their ful-
filment, but who did not believe tbem,
though they are powerful evidences of
his divine mission to the human family
now that they are being fulfilled before
their eyes. Neither are the prophecies
contained in the Bible quoted here con-
cerning the great work of the last days— >

Digitized by CjOOglC v

CORRESPONDENCE*

prophecies which have been presented to
this generation by voice and pen, with
boldness and perspicuity, since the first
"Eider was sent forth commissioned to
warn mankind of the purposes of Heaven.
But if any one desires to know where
they are to be found, let him open that
Bible which Christendom professes to be-
lieve, and all the predictions therein con-
tained which apply to Jesus Christ, his
mission to man, and his universal, ever-
lasting kingdom, which were not fulfilled
in his painful soul-harrowing career while
here upon the earth, and which conten-

tious, powerless, and barren modern
Christianity cannot fulfil, are they which
apply to the work that- Joseph was com-
missioned to open and inaugurate. Let
him search it carefully and prayerfully,
and he will find it as thickly studded
with them " as the galaxy of heaven is
with its luminous constellations," and
they shall all be fulfilled. Let Christen-
dom, then, pause and consider whether
its own condemnation or that of the
despised Jews will be the greater for
rejecting the testimony of prophecy.

(To be continued.)

CORRESPONDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Hjorring, January 4, 1861.
President C. C. Rich.

Dear Brother, — Perhaps a line or two
from these northern regions might interest
vou in some degree. Tou are, no doubt,
informed that my health has been pretty
good since I left Liverpool, though the
material change of the atmosphere im-
parts no healing virtue, as the sun has
almost disappeared from mortal eyes in
these regions, and we see and smell
nothing but heavy clouds over a misty
country. The prospects before us are
very good, as you are well acquainted
with. When I arrived, I stayed two
weeks in Copenhagen and Zealand ; and
after that, I went to the northern ex-
. treme of Denmark, and laboured in
Aalborg and Wensyssel Conferences,
where I have many relatives and ac-
quaintances, and was appointed to labour
in said places under Pastor Madsen's
directions. I have attended numerous
meetings with Saints and strangers, and
have greatly admired the spirit of in-
quiry after the truth that prevails among
the people, who receive our testimony
with joy and satisfaction, and treat us
very kindly, and even do us much good.

The Scandinavians Stierne, as well as
other works, translated in the Danish
language, is widely circulated through
the country and read with great interest
by many, and the knowledge of the truth
is increasing rapidly among the people.
We always hear many men of different

ranks and classes speak about the Scan-
dinaviens Stierne, and they admire the
skill with which it is conducted. It is
really worthy of its title (the Star of
Scandinavia), and is not only a light to
the Saints, but also to all lovers of truth*

I can truly say that I never met with
better Saints than those who live here.
They are willing to obey counsel and use
their talents and means for the upbuilding
of the kingdom and the spread of the
Gospel. The Travelling Elders and the
Priesthood in general are labouring dili-
gently. The Elders take no course to
oppress the Saints in>any way. There ia
union and harmony among the brethren,
and the work will continue to go onward
rapidly. Many will rally to the standard
of the Gospel, render obedience to its
mandates, and obtain heirship and birth-
right in the kingdom of our God.

This place (Wensyssel) is a curious
place: it extends to the North Sea on
the west, and on the east to Kattegat,
and it is separated from the rest of
Jutland by a bay on the south, called
Lumfjorden. In the times when the
Roman Catholics made their conquests in
Germany and these northern lands, thej
were never able to conquer this little
place, which contains now only about
sixty thousand inhabitants, and in that
time much less. The people were brave
and fearless for the threatening tyrants,
and took up their arms, and finally suc-
ceeded in redeeming their little Wensyssel
from their intruders, and Catholicism was
consequently never introduced here ; and

Digitized by

UTAH

the ancient saying was, that the north
side of said bay (LUmQorden) was the
north side of righteousness.

To look at the situation of this people,
and see their liberality, kindness, and free-
dom of spirit, I think it is very plain to see
the good effects of their never having been
under the mother church and like influ-
ences. There have been greater num-
bers baptized here, according to its popula-
tion, than in any place I know of ; and
there are still greater numbers who be-
lieve the Gospel; and in general the
Elders are treated very kindly by a great
many people here. A good many of those
who embrace the Gospel have been in
possession of means, «and been very liberal
m assisting the Elders to send off the
poorer class to the Valley. All the
alders who come here admire the free-
dom of spirit, and in general feel de-
sirous to proclaim the Gospel. -I believe
there is yet to be done a great work here.
The President of this Conference (brother
Weiby), who was born here, is an ener-
getic man and carries a good influeuce
among his countrymen. We have just
held our Quarterly Conferences here in
this District, and brothers Liljenquist
and Madsen have just gone to Copen-

NBWS. 93"

hagen to attend the Conference there on
the 5th and 6th instant.

The winter is very severe here. We
can nar dly get at places to baptize at
present. There have been fourteen bap-
tized in this Conference since the 25th
of November.

I am now pretty healthy and lively,
and feel in humility to lift up my voice
to my countrymen and show them the
way of life and salvation. I don't know
that I have any greater desire than to be
instrumental in the hands of God in
doing good to my fellow-creatures ; and I
pray the Almighty that I may ever be
enabled to magnify my calling and be
accepted of him and his servants upon the
earth. It is very cheering indeed, to hear
(through the Star,) of good tidings for
Zion, and wise measures taken to roll on
the work with mighty power. We and the
Saints venture to have some hopes that
you and brother Lyman will come this
way next summer.

Pray give my respects to brothers
Lyman, Cannon, Gates, and others of the
brethren with whom I am acquainted.

Very respectfully,

A. Christewsen.

UTAH NEWS.

(From ike "Deuret New" of December 12 and 19, 18*0.)

New School-house. — We are much
pleased to notice, among the attractions of
the 18th Ward, the addition of a fine sub-
stantially-built private school- house, to the
east of President Young's residence, and
enclosed within his walls. We have been
informed that among other objects to
which it will be consecrated during the
present winter is the teaching of vocal
music upon the "Tonic Sol Fa method,"
bow so popular and so universally taught
throughout Europe. For the introduc-
tion of this system of teaching, President
Young has been preparing for some time
heck, and has had brought from England,
daring the summer, charts, elementary
works, exercises, &&, peculiar to that
style of teaching. So soon, therefore, as
the school-house is entirely finished, which
is expected to be before Christmas, under
the direction of the President, Mr. David

O. Calder will open therein two classes for
young persons of both sexes, in order that
a competent number may be thoroughly
taught this simple and beautiful science,
and each rendered thoroughly qualified to
form classes and instruct others, so that a
uniform system of teaching may be
adopted throughout all the schools of the
Territory.

An Old Nephfte Com. — Hon. George
Peacock, of Manti, has exhibited in our
office an old copper coin, recently found
by some explorer or hunter on the Colo-
rado river, on both sides of which are
hieroglyphics or characters and Hebrew
coin letters. Not being one of the
"learned," we submitted it to Professor
Phelps, who has given us the following as
a literal translation of the characters.

Digitized by

SUMMARY.

^94

On one side it reads icoording to the
rendition —

"The King, Hagagadonihah, over the
kingdom near the sea west, sends to all
greeting : one senine."

On the other side —

"la the 95th year of the Kingdom of
Christ, 9th year of my reign : Peace aod
life."

Mottoes :— " Weapon to weapon :
Life for life/'

The coin is 1,765 years old, and is
evidently a Nephite senine, or farthing,
as mentioned in the fifth chapter of second
Nephi, in the Book of Mormon, English
edition, page 517. It is about the size of

an English farthing. The numerals are
plain Arabic figures.

Death of Arapken.— The Utah Chief
Arapeen died on Tuesday last, the 4th
instant, about sixty miles south of this
place [Manti]. He was on his return
from the Navajo country, where he had
been on a trafficking expedition, together
with many of his tribe or band. He
died with good feelings towards the
whites in this part of the Territory, for
their hospitality to him and his people,
and requested that no person should be
killed on account of his death.

His brother Sanpitch is at present the
leader of the band, and wishes, as well as
his men, to be at peace with all.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gbvbbax. — The bombardment of Gaeta continues. A treasonable correspondence of high
importance which had been entertained with Gaeta has been discovered.' Typhus fever
is making great ravages at Gaeta. The news from Syria is said by official persons to be
rery grave, and fresh massacres are apprehended. A despatch from Ibrail, Jan. 28, says
that " Unless the ice rots by rain and waterfalls, the flooded state of the Danube threatens
most vessels in port." 1,000 Sardinians have attacked the convent of Casamall, in the
Boman States. They dispersed the reactionary band, set fire to the convent on the night
of the 22nd ult., and afterwards re-entered Neapolitan territory. The monks saved them-
selves by flight before the commencement of the attack. The inhabitants of Wowodina
have protested against the incorporation of that province with Hungary, in an arbitrary
manner. They demand the convocation of a Servian National Assembly, which should
meet at the same time as the Hungarian Diet.

American. — Three more stars — namely, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida, have at length
fallen from the Federal constellation. The Washington correspondent of the New York
Herald, in a communication dated Jan. 10, says—" A despatch is just received stating that *
the Secession Convention of Alabama, by a vote of 78 to 22, this evening adopted
an ordinance in favour of secession. The 22 men finally acquiesced and signed
the ordinance." It was entitled "An ordinance to dissolve the Union between the
State of Alabama and other States, united under the compact and style of the United
8tates of America in whioh it is " declared and ordained by the people, of the State
of Alabama, in Convention assembled, that the State of Alabama now withdraws from the
Union known as the United States of America, and henceforth ceases to be one of the said
United States, and is, and of right ought to be, a sovereign, independent State." A des-
patch from Mississippi, dated Jackson, Jan. 9, sayi — " *fie ordinance for the immediate
accession of the State has passed the Convention by a vote of 84 to 15." Another from
Florida, dated Tallahasse, January 11, says — M The ordinance of secession was signed
to-day in the eastern, portico of the Capitol, amid the firing of cannon and the cheers and
enthusiasm of 010000010." A despatch from New York, dated Jan. 19, says— * The
Georgia State Convention yesterday adopted a resolution declaring — First, that it is the
duty of Georgia to secede from the Union ; and secondly, appointing a committee to pre*,
pare an ordinance of seoessioa. The resolution was adopted by a vote of 165 to 136.

"Kzuoiosb" Slaveholders*— The Wesleyans of the Southern States of Amerioa
possess upwards of 100,000 slaves among them, the Episcopalians upwards of 80,000, and
•«e Baptists upwards of 200*000.

Digitized by

THINGS WORTH RBUgMBKRTNQ, — VARIBTIKS.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING,

Hombcb of Ergush Words. — The number of words In the English language amount
+0 aboat 50,000.

Ran of Pulsatiow. — In a new-born infant the poise averages 135 beats per minute;
at two years old. 107 beats ; at fir© jeers, 101 ; at ten, 91 ; at fifteen, 84 ; at twenty, 72 ;
a* twenty-five, 78.

Beat or trb Esuth's Ihtbrior. — The rste of increase of heat in the earth, as its
Interior is penetrated, is equal to one degree of Fahrenheit for every 45 feet of descent.
Thai at 7,000,290 feet from the surface the heat will reaoh 212 degrees, the boiling point
of water ; at 20,600 feet it will melt lead ; at seven miles it will maintain a glowing
rod heat ; at 21 miles it will melt gold ; at 74 miles it will melt east-iron ; and at 100 miles
from the surface (the region of perpetual fire,) all will be fluid as water— a mass of
swathing and boiling rock in a perpetually molten state.

British Standards of Measure ard Weight. — The standard measure of extension
in Great Britain and Ireland is by law declared to be " the straight line or distance be-
tween the centres of the two points in the gold »tu<J§ in the straight brass rod now in the
osjstody of the Clerk of the House of Commons, whereon the words and figures * Stan-
dard Yard, 1760.' are engraved. This distance, when the brass is at the temperature of
4* degrees by Fahrenheit's thermometer, shall be the only standard measure of extension
in the three kingdoms, by whioh all other measures, whether lineal, superficial, or solid,
ahallbe derived and computed." This "standard yard" is itself founded on comparison
-with a pendulum vibrating seconds of mean time in the latitude of London in a vacuum
-at the level of the sea, in the proportion of 36 inehes to 30*1393. The imperial standard
mound troy is that from which all other weights are derived. This standard was adopted
mm being the weight of a cubical inch of distilled water found to weigh by Fahrenheit's
thermometer (barometer being at 36 inches,) 252 grains and 458 thousandths parts of a

Weather Siors. — When a storm is impending, the spider shortens the threads of bis
web, and lengthens them again when the storm is about to pass off. If the spider is
n,uiet, it is a sign of rain ; but when he goes to work during a shower, be sure it will soon
olear off. The swallow is also an infallible barometer — flying low, almost touching the
earth, and uttering a low, plaintive cry, before a rain ; but sailing back and forth high in
•Hie air, during settled weather. When a violent tempest is about to break out, he soars
oven to the clouds, and adopts a slow, majestic motion, very different from his ordinary
ana. In pleasant weather the crow will at any time leave her nest in search of food ;
trot if she feels a storm approaching, nothing will tempt her off till her mate takes her
place to protect the young. The peacock foretells rain by its frequent cries, the wood-
pecker by its cooings, the perroquet by its chattering, and the guinea-fowl by going to
roost. The goose . manifests great uneasiness, plunging into the water, and rapidly
returning to the land. The scargulls seek the shores, and are only seen far from land in
nettled weather. The- petrel, on the contrary, dashes out boldly into the rfiidst of storm
nad tempest. The. chirp of the cricket is a sign of fair weather; but the cry of the
tree toad ^indicate! rain. When the air is overcharged with moisture, the odour of
^Rowers is strong and penetrating, and in dry weather is soft and agreeable.

VARIETIES.

•' Tor say, Mrs. Jones, that prisoner stabbed the deoaasedr* « Yes sir." " Was it In
ilss thorax or in the abdomen?" M No, sir ; it was in the street: I seed it with my own
lilasssi eyes." M That'll do. Call the next witness."

Dn. Johrsor, when asked his opinion of a certain book sent to him for review, said —
« There is much in it that is good, and mueh that is new ; but that which is new in it is
ami good, and thai whisk is good in it is not new."

Baxics or Charles L — There are certain relies of Charles I. preserved in a glass
anas front in the village church of Ashbumham, near Battle, 8ussex, — vl*., the watch, the
aSfa™ a pair of white silk drawers whioh he wore on the morning of his execution*
tafthnr with the sheet in whioh his body was wrapped after death.

Digitized by

U6 f ^ POETRY.

Natural Compass. — On the prairies of' Texas may be seen a little plant, whose leaves
and flowers invariably turn towards the north.

New Flannels, to preserve their colour and prevent their shrinking, should, before
they are washed for the first time, be put into a tub and covered with boiling water, and
allowed to remain in it until the water is cold.

" It is a law of nature that every woman should be married ; but when we know hoar
enormous is the excess of the female over the male population, all surprise that bo many
of the fair sex should be unmarried vanishes." — London Journal.

A Golden PaornET. — Dr. Christopher Girtanner, an eminent professor of Gottingen
has prophesied, in a memoir of Azote, that it will give birth to the transmutation of
metals. "In the 20th century," says the professor, " the transmutation of metals will be
generally known and practised. Every chemist and every artist will make gold ; kitchen
utensils will be of silver, and even gold, which will contribute more than an j thing else to
prolong life, poisoned at present by the oxides of copper, lead, and iron, which we daily
swallow, with our food."

Nations Without Fire. — According to Pliny, fire was for a long time unknown to
some of the ancient Egyptians ; and when Exodus (the celebrated astronomer) showed it
to them, they were absolutely in raptures. The Persians, Phoenicians, Greeks, and
several other nations acknowledge that their ancestors were once without the use of ;
fire ; and the Chinese confess the same of their progenitors. Poropanius, Mola, Plutarch,
and other ancient authors speak of nations who, at the time the? wrote, knew not the ,
use of fire, or had just learned it. Facts of the same kind are also attested by several -
modern nations. The inhabitants of the Marian Islands, which were discovered iu 1551,
had no idea of fire. Never was astonishment greater than theirs when they saw it, on
the. descent of Magellan, in one of their islands. At first they believed it was some kind.,
of animal that fixed to and fed upon wood. The inhabitants of the Philippine and
Canary Islands were formerly equally ignorant. Africa presents, even in our own day, .
some nations in this deplorable state. " t

POETRY.

COME TO ZION.

Israel, Israel, God is calling-
Calling thee from lands of woe :

Babylon the Great is falling ;
God shall all her towers o'erthrow.

Come to Zion,
E'er his floods of anger flow.

Israel, Israel, God is speaking ;

Hear your great Deliverer's voice !
Now a glorious morn is breaking

For the people of his choice.
Come to Zion,

And within her walls rejoice.

Dublin.

Israel, angels are descending

From celestial worlds on high, . >
And towards man their powers extending, ;

That the Saints may homeward fly.
Come to Zionj « .

For your coming Lord is nigh. %

Israel ! Israel ! can'st thou linger 4

Still in error's gloomy ways?
Mark how judgment's pointing flnger

Justifies no vain delays.
Come to Zion !

Zion's walls shall ring with praise.

Richard Smytb. **

C0NTENT8.

Tokens of Divinity In " Mormonlsm" 81 Utah News •~... w „

History of Joseph Smith ...... 85 Summary of News and Passing Events ,

Editorial. — A Word of CauUon „ 83 Things Worth Remembering M

Christianity and ''Morraonlstn" W Varieties „...;.., „

Correspondence.^ ScancUnafian Mission : Letter Poetry.— Come to Zion M

from Elder A. Christensen 92

St
. 94

, ft

f ; LIVERPOOL:

EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY GBOBGB Q> CAIWOW, 43, UUVOTOK.

LONDON : \ / ' " m - \

V«B SAAB AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DKI^T, ^FLORENCE STREET, GROSS STREET .ISLUTl

AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. ' ' '

Printed by jambs and xBraxw, 51, sorra jobx street, sivEirooi.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

m A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy icith the nation*:
he will plead with all flesh j he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord."-*-
Jkbjuiiaq.

Ifo. 7, Yol.^XIII. Saturday, February 16, 1861. Price One Penny.

DIVISION OF THE UNITED STATES — CAUSES WHICH HAVE
O HASTENED IT,

For weeks past, every mail that has
reached us from the United States has
come laden with evil tidings of the con-
dition of affairs there* The perpetuity
of the Government of the Republic is
seriously' threatened by the hostility and
feelings of hatred existing between the
Northern and Southern sections. The
quadrennial election, which was held in
November last, resulted adversely to
the South in the election of Abraham
Lincoln for President, and of Hannibal
"FTftTTiKn for Vice-President, — men belong-
ing to the Republican party, whose views
are very obnoxious to the people of -the
South. When the news, of their election
reached the South, the utmost excitement
prevailed among all classes ; and in the
State of South Carolina especially, imme-
diate step* were taken to secede from the
Union. Tbe State Legislature, which
held ha session soon after the election,
voted for a convention being held, dele-
gates to which were to be elected by the
petiftle. This Convention commenced its.
afctaarsonthe 17th of December last, and
mm a secession ordinance ; and on the
24th, the Governor of the State (Mr.
Piemen*,) issued a proclamation setting
forth to the world that South Carolina
was a free and independent State, having
mjjinh rrt her connection with the United
Sbttea. Since the secession of South
Oatefina, State after State have held

their conventions, until at the present
time no less than four (Alabama,
Florida, Mississippi, and Georgia,) have
formally seceded from the Union; and
the prospect of the last advices was that
nearly, if not all, the Southern States
would follow their example.

For a short period after the election, the
idea was entertained by many that the
excitement and agitation consequent upon
that event would soon die out, and affairs
fall back into their old position. Even
after South Carolina had seceded, it was
thought that the South was only trying
its old game of bluster, with the view of
frightening the North, hoping thereby to
obtain fresh concessions. South Caro-
lina, it was predicted, would soon be
glad A get back into the Union. But as
time rolled on, those who entertained
these ideas have gradually permitted the
conviction to force itself upon them that
they had been deceived, and that the
trouble is deeper seated and more serious
than they imagined. Not only South
Carolina, but others and more influential
and powerful Southern States, by their
acts, have provejl that they reafly are in
earnest in their attempts to dissever their
connection with the NorA. This mis-
apprehension on the part of the North of
the feelings of their Southern brethren
has been attended with the worst of con-
sequences to the Union, as it has p*t»

Digitized by

DIVISION OF THE UNITED STATES.

yented, their taking timely measures to
preserve its integrity when such measures
might have been effectual. Now, when
this misapprehension is being removed, it
Is almost too lite. No concession tbat
could be honourably made by the North-
ern party would satisfy South Carolina,
or induce her to abandon her secession
scheme ; and to conciliate her sister States
and hi ad them firmly to the Union
would require from the North more free
and liberal concessions than they are pre-
pared or willing to make.

'Foremost in secession, South Carolina
has also taken the initiative in active
rebellion. Bat a few days had elapsed
after the passage of her ordinance of
secession before she proceeded to seize
and hold possession of all the property of
the United States, consisting of post
office?, arsenal, forts, &c, within her
limto, (with the exception of Fort Sum-
ter, which was garrisoned by a body of
U. S. troops, commanded by Captain
Anderson,— a fearless, determined officer,)
and naulejd, down ^he national flag of the
United otates^ and "hoisted her town flag
in its stead. Almost the entire South
immediately followed her example by
sejziug the \J. B. forts and arsenals
within the limits of their ' respective
States. Revolution has been inaugurated,
and revolution never goes backward.
Tfye South, nearly as a unit, has em-
barked 4n itj and whatever the con-
sequences are to 'bp, her people appear
determined to abide item.

Wkr^bloodv, fratricidal war seems to
be inevitable: the progress of events Is
forcing Ibis issue upon both^ sections.. A
fky weeks more, and l^r. Lircpln De-
comes president of the United States,
aujfl/lry virtue of bis Mgjb office, Com-
mander-in-Cnief of Uie Army and "NaVy.
The 'whole power of tie Government
wilfWat his control; and from the well-
IndWn^ character of the man and the
j views of his party, it is expected that that
rawer will be exerted in enforcing the
law? and collecting the revenue in the
Bouth, even in the States where they
have seceded, punianing ( the rafractorv
apq maintaining the dignity or. his tngh
offipe as President of the United States.
jt, these expectations should be realized,
and jibe South continue firm in its pfese^
Attitude, the issue of war must come. Or

{he South, anticipating action of this
" Knd on the part of the successful party,

should make an attempt to prevent the
inauguration of the President elect,
and retain in their own possession the
control of the Government, the issue of
war must come; for the Republican
party of the North, knowing tbat their can-
didates have been constitutionally elected,
will insist upon the compliance of their
political opponents with the requirements
of the Constitution, and will never tamely
submit to be despoiled of their rights.
In either case there is every likelihood of
war. The only reasonable prospect there-
is at present of its being averted, in the
minds of the far-seeing, thinking men, is
in the hope they entertain of a compro-
mise being effected before Mr. Buchanan*
term of office expires. But up to last
advices the wisest statesmen of up nation
had tried in vain to devise a compromise
that would be acceptable to all parties.

What a mournful spectacle to b&bld !
— the downfall of the noblest temple of
liberty ever reared by human hands !
Humanity shudders and weeps at the ban
contemplation of such a ftio de si—such
a wickecL unjustifiable act of self-destruc-
tion I And yet its perpetrators i calmly
and shamelessly plot now they can best
accomplish their wicked ends I It seems
^credible tbat a nation which but a few
short months ago was in a position Vto
dispute the empire of commerce wifli die
foremost of the maritime nations of (be
earth — a nation which stood pre-eminent
as an example of the jteneficent apd
glorious working of free institutions^
and commanded the admiration of every
lover of freedom throughout the y world,
should to-day be dbmembered and ren£in
fragments, tottering with weakness at Oie
very brink of ruin I In the perpetuity
and increase of , the greatness and power
of pie United States, the oppressed aad
down- trodden of every nation have been
interested, Towards that land t&ey have
looked with longing gaze, and under was
term of Government expected io reanat
thetr brightest dreams of liberty ahd
equality. But now they turn theur At-
tention to the view that presents itself
there, and they are filled wi$h amazement.
They can scarcely believe what they ape.
When we reflect 1 upon the suddenness
of the change, it is a matter of no surprise
that men are loth to admit the evidence
of their own senses in this case, ^o jiee
a nation occupying almost the very pin-
nacle of earthly power and greatness, and

Digitized by

Google

DnrunoN or the united staHm.

attracting the admiration of wry nation
osi earth, precipitated in a fevr brief
weeks from so glorious a height to such a
depth, that she almost becomes an object
«f contempt, is so extraordinary and ano-
malous a sight, that imagination is taxed
to conceive of it. Upon beholding such
m stupendous catastrophe, fraught ap-
parently with such evil for universal
ltunianity,(for the downfall of freedom in
one part of the globe strengthens the
liands and cheers v the hearts of despots
and tyrants all over its surface,) the in-
quiry arises in the thinking mind, What
are the causes that have produced such
rapid and fearful results ? This is the in-
quiry which we purpose to briefly answer in
this article.

Twenty-eight years to a day prior to
Governor Pickens' proclamation to the
wrld that the State of South Carolina
was free and independent, and owed alle-
giance no longer to the Government of
the United States, the Prophet Joseph
Smith received the following important
iwelation concerning the fate that awaited
the United States and the other nations
•rf the earth:—

•* Ferily thus eaith the Lord, concerning
the wars that will shortly come to pass,
a s gian i u y at the rebellion of South Carolina,

• which will eventually terminate in the death
and misery of many souls. The days will
aome that war will be poured out upon all
jtations, beginning at that place; for behold,
the Southern States shall be divided against
the Northern States, and the Southern
fltotes will call on other nations, even the
aatfion of Great Britain, as it is called ; and
Utey shall also eall upon other nations, in
s w d u r to defend themselves against .other
nations ; and thus war shall be poured out
apon all nations. And it shall come to pass,
alter many days, slaves shall rise up against
ibetr masters, who afcall be marshalled and
aueiplined for war. And it shall eome to
mass also that the remnants who are left of
the land will marshal themselves, and shall
Become exceeding angry, and shall vex the
Ctartfles with a sore vexation; and thus,
•with the sword and by bloodshed, the in-
kabftantfl of the earth shall mourn ; and with
iesaiae, and plague, and earthquakes, and
*he thunder of heaves, aid the fierce and

- witid lightning also, shall the inhabitants of
inn earth be made to feel the wrath and in-
dignation and chastening hand of an A1-
mighty God, until the consumption decreed
lmth made a full end of ail nations ; that the
*ry of the Saints and of the blood of the
£sints shall esase to come up into the ears

of the Lord of Sabaotb, from the earth, to
be avenged Of their enemies. "Wherefore,
stand ye in holy places, and be not noted,
until the day of the Lord come; for behbld
it cometh quickly, smith the Lord. Amen."

The above revelation has been published
to the world a great number of years, and
been widely circulated in the United
States and Great Britain. A more pain
and definite prophecy is not extant, nor
one that has been more strikingly and
literally fulfilled. Yet, though it has
plainly pointed out the manner in which
the fearful and devastating wars .which
were to be u poured out upon all nations 19
would begin, and has told the exact spot »
where they might look for their com-
mencement, it has been no more heeded
than were the prophecies of the ancient
Prophets and Apostles by the stiffheoked
and hard-hearted Jews. The feeling has
been with both nations—" I sit a queen,
and am no widow, and shall see no sor-
row." It seemed so improbable to the
people of the United States that such a
fate awaited them, that they to whose
notice this revelation has been brought, in
most instances, have affected either to
despise or to pity those who were so credu-
lous as to believe in it. They have looked
as much for the heavens to fall as for any
prophecy uttered by Joseph Smith to be
fulfilled. Had not Providence clearly
marked out the destiny of the great Re-
public of the West ? Was it not the hope
of humanity and liberty from pole to pole?
And was it in the least degree probable
that a nation which was the hope of the
race, and which mankind, in viewing its
rapid growth and development, had
gazed upon in worshipping admiration,
should become so weakened by division
and civil contention that one section of it
would call upon a foreign nation for aid ?
The battle-fields on which the fate and
future existence of the republic had been
wrought out were yet moist with the
blood of a common ancestry. Northern
and Southern men were yet living who, as
brethren, had fought shoulder to shoulder
together in the War of Independence.
The glorious traditions and mementos of
the past were yet vivid in the minds of old
and young; and they, beholding the
wonderful extension of territory and in-
crease of wealth and power, looked for-
ward with hopeful expectation to a long

and glorious future.

Digitized by

the

100 DITI8ION OF THE

reasonings, when they reasoned at all,
with which tbe people of the United
States, who believed not that Joseph
Smith was a Prophet of the Lord, met
the revelation and strengthened themselves
in their rejection of it.

As tbe wars foretold by this revelation
were to begin at the rebellion of South
Carolina and the- division of the Southern
and Northern^ States of the American
Confederacy, and as these events are now
in process of fulfilment on the Western
eontinent, we will confine ourselves to this
article more particularly to tbe investiga-
tion of the causes that have produced
such a condition of things in that land.
The subject is too extensive when in-
vestigated in its application to other
lands for the limits 01 a single article.

There is a great diversity of opinion
prevailing respecting the causes that have
operated to bring the United States to their
present weak and distracted condition.
The advocates of despotisms and oli-
garchies wag their heads very knowingly
and say it is but another illustration of the
incapability of man for self-government.
The opponents of slavery outside the
United States, with those alto wbo reside
in the Northern States, attribute tbe pre-
sent condition of the Union to "the
bMghting curse of slavery/' which they
denounce as " the sum of all villanies.
On the other hand, pro- slavery men lay
to the charge of tbe Northern party the
alienation of feeling and discord that
exist — attribute to their "fanatical in-
roads" upon the rights of the South the
sectional hatred that prevails. But there
is a cause greater and vastly more potent
than any of these, which has been opera-
ting to bring about this condition of
affairs. The Lord had foretold by his
servant the Prophet that a rebellion should
take place in South Carolina, and that
the Southern States should be divided
against the Northern States; and this
prediction had to be fulfilled. Slavery
on tbe one side and fanatical hostility on
the other were some of the means which
were to aid in bringing it to pass.
Venality and corruption in high places,
the increase of wealth and consequent
luxury, the lax administration of the laws,
and the prostitution of the public press
to the misrepresentation and villifying of
truth and the furtherance of the basest
purposes, oontributed also as means to
bring it to pass.

UNITED STATES.

But it was not the operation of these evils
alone that brought so speedily tbe fulfil-
ment of this prophecy. Other empires had
suffered under evils equally great as these,
and had endured for long years. No ; it
was not these evils : it was one of far greater
magnitude : it was crime the mot>t gross
and terrible in its consequences of any that
man can commit. It was the shedding
of the blood of innocence — it was tbe
murdering of Prophets and Apostles and
Saints. Whenever a man or nation "was
guilty of this crime in ancient times, the
retributive justice of the Almighty speedily
followed them, and their downfall was sure.

Though the Lord had revealed to his
people what the fate of the nations of the
earth would be, yet he did not intend
these calamities to come upon them
without their having a chance to escape,
if they would. He sent his servants
among them, who faithfully warned them
of thtir sins, and pointed out to them the
path of safety. In the United States
particularly has this been the case. Since
the organization of the Church there, on
the 6th day of April, 1830, until the
present, tbe Lord, through his servants,
has been continually calling upon that
nation to repent and turn unto him, and
warning them of the destruction that,
awaited them, if they disregarded his in-
vitation. But instead of receiving the
message with gladness and thanksgiving,
they have cruelly abused and maltreated
the messengers for daring to deliver
it. The Lord had strengthened them
in resisting the encroachments of tyranny
and in achieving their independence —
bad given them wisdom and power
to frame a liberal form of government*
which granted liberty and equal rights
to all ; but they abused their power
by refusing to permit those who would
give heed to this message to enjoy tho-
ughts to which they were equally entitled
with themselves. The Church of Christ
which was organised by the revelations of
heaven for their salvation, as well as that
of the whole family of man, they, would
not permit to dwell unmolested and enjoy
the freedom of conscience guaranteed
unto alL Its officers and members be-
came marked and obnoxious characters.
While located in New York, they were
subjected to annoyance and ill-treatment.
They removed to feirtland, Ohio ; but the
change was merely one of locality— not in
the spirit of the people who surrounded

Digitized by Google

DITfSION OF THB UNITED STATS3.

101

thom. They could only he content, in too
injury instances, when persecuting them.
They next sought to establish themselves
in Missouri ; but here the same feeling of
hatred was manifested towards them, and
in a more outrageous and vindictive man-
ner. In that State scenes were witnessed
that, would hare disgraced the most bar-
barous nation. For no other crime than
daring to think as they pleased, and to wor-
ship tbe Great Creator according to the
dictates of conscience, the blood of great
numbers was basely and inhumanly shed
by men who called themselves civilized
and laid claim to the holy name of
m Christians ;* women were ravished,
houses were rifled of their contents, and,
with grain, fences, and everything com-
bustible, were ruthlessly burned. The
people of the Lord were insulted, despoiled
of ail they possessed, treated with every
conceivable indignity, driven by violence
from county to county, and finally, to
escape extermination, were compelled to
flee from the State. In Illinois, whither
they wended their weary w.Vy after their
expulsion from Missouri, they endured
similar afflictions and wrong?, and, in ad-
dition to all the rest, suffered the loss of
Joseph and Hyrum Smith — one the Pro-
phet, and the other the Patriarch of the
Church,— holy men, whose only crime was
endeavouring to bring their fellow- crea-
tures to the knowledge of God and the
Urws which He had revealed. The atro-
cious massacre of these men was followed
in a brief period afterwards by the forcible
ejection of the entire Church from their
possessions and the city and settlements
they had established, and their being
driven into the wilderness west of the
Bocky Mountains. Even there, though
enjoying a degree of peace unknown in I
farmer times, they have not been free 1
from annoyance. The disposition was
manifested to re-enact tbe old scenes;
bat God, by his power, interposed — It
is enough, and the Church was spared
the repetition of the cruelties and distress
experienced in the past.

Tbe commission of the above acts, with
others equally wicked which we have
not enumerated, is tbe cause now ope-
rating to the injury of the Government
of the United Suites. Who can behold
what is now taking place in that land and
not feel that the Lord's hand is in the
•vents that have transpired ? What power
bat His could so signally have brought to fl

pass his word spoken by hi* Prophets?
Tears ago, that the whole nation might
be left without excuse, he commanded 1ms.
people to exhaust every method df obtain-
ing redress. Appeals were made to
Magistrates, Judges, Governors, and Pre-
sidents ; petitions were presented to the
Legislatures of tbe States where we resided,
and to those of neighbouring States, and
to the Congress of the nation ; but every
effort was unavailing : our entreaties were
unheeded ; they fell upon unwilling ears*
They would not render justice. As a last
trial seemingly, the Prophet of God waa
offered to them as candidate for President.
Under his guidance they might have been
saved from destruction; but, instead of
accepting him, they slew him ! God had
promised that if the rulers of the nation
hearkened not to the importunities of bis
people, be would then ** arise and come
forth from bis hidingplace, and in hie
fury vex the nation, and in his hot displea-
sure and in his fierce anger, in his t
cut riff those wicked, ungrateful, and i
just stewards." And verily the most
sceptical can find good grounds for be-
lieving that those fearful promises are
likely soon to be fulfilled.

How marvellously the prophecy uttered
twenty-eight years ago u being fulfilled!
The man who at that time would have
talked about the dissolution of the Union
would have been treated with ridicule
and contempt ; and had h«* advocated the
idea, be would have been viewed as a
traitor. The nation was lifted up in
pride, in consequence of their unparalleled
prosperity. No sooner, however, did
they begin to reject the message sent unto
them by the Lord, than his Spirit began
to be withdrawn from them, tbe spirit of
disunion began to find place in their
midst, and a reckless indifference to con-
sequences gradually became apparent.
Every act of cruelty and violence prac-
ticed against the Lord's messengers, and
every drop of innocent bloodshed, fostered
the growth of these evils, and the nation
gradually but surely declined. To-day
it would not cause the slightest surprise,
in scarcely any quarter, to hear that civil
war, with all its horrors, was inaugurated !
It is with a feeling of sorrow that we
contemplate the fate of a nation so glori-
ous — a nation once so highly favoured
of the Lord. But the justice of God never
sleeps. As a people, we have done all hi
our power to awaken the nation toasenet -

Digitized by

302

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

of its danger. Our efforts have been vain :
Badness seems to nave taken possession of
them. What the length of the period
may be before all these things be fulfilled,
we> cannot say ; but this we can say, and
verily know, that the rebellion of South
Carolina is the beginning of wars which
will surely " terminate in the death and
Misery of many souls" and in the " con-

sumption decreed," which is to mafre
" a lull end of all nations." These events
convey this warning— one more powerful
to the people of God and to all the world
than any mortal voice is capable of giving
— " Stand ye in holy places, and be no*
moved, until the day of the Lord come;
for behold it cometh quickly, saith the
Lord. Amen."

' HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 88.)

[March, 1844.]

Peter referred to the same subject on the
day of Pentecoat, but the multitude did not
get the endowment that Peter had; but
several days after, the people asked 4 What
shall we do ?* Peter says, 4 1 would ye had
done it tgnorantly,' speaking of crucifying
the Lord, &c. He did Dot say to them,
t Repent, and be baptized, for the remission
of your sins bat he said, ' Repent, there-
fore, and be converted, that your sins may
be blotted out, when the times of refreshing
shall come from the presence of the Lord.'
(Acts iii. 19.)

This is the ease with murderers. They
could not be baptised for the remission of
aims, for they had shed innocent blood.

Again : The doctrine or sealing power of
Blfyah is as follow*: — If you have power
to seal on earth and in heaven, then we
shonld be crafty. The 6rst thing you do, go
and seal on earth your sons and daughter*
unto yourself, and yourself unto jour
fathers in eternal glory ; and goa-head,and
not go back, but use a little craftiness, and
■eal all you can; and when you get to
heaven, tell your Father that what jou seal
on earth should be sealed in heaven, ac-
cording to his promise.

1 will walk through the gate of heaven
and eleim what I seal, and those that follow
me and my counsel.

Toe Lord once told me that what I asked
for 1 should have. I ha?e been aft aid to
ask God to kill my enemies, lest some of
them should, pt rac venture, repent.

I asked a short time since for the Lord
to deliser me out of the hinds of the
Governor of Missouri ; and if it needs must
% be to accomplish it, to take him away ; and
the next news that came pouring down
from there was, that Governor Heynoldt had
ate* kiwutlf. And I would now say, 4 Be-
ware, O earth, how yon 6ght against the
Jsnanta of God and shed innocent blood; for,

in the days of Elijah, his enemies cast*
upon him, and fire was called down from
heaven and destroyed tbem.*

The spirit of Blias is first, Elijah second,. v
and Messiah last. Eli as is a forerunner to
prepare the way, and the spirit and powec
of Elijah is to come after, holding the keys-
of power, building the Temple to the cap-
stone, placing the seals of the Melchisede*
Priesthood upon the house of Israel, and
making all things ready ; then Messiah cornea
to his Temple, which is last of all.

Messiah is above the spirit and power of
Elijah, for he made the world, and was that
spiritual rock unto Moses in the wilderness.
Elijah was to come and prepare the way and
build up the kingdom before the coming of
the great day of the Lord, although the>
spirit of Elias might begiti it.

1 have asked of the Lord concerning hiav
coming; and while asking the Lord, ho
gave me a sign and said, 'In the d ay s of
Noah I set a bow in the heavens as a sign
and token that in any year that the bolt
should be seen the Lord would not come;
but there should be seed time and harvest
during that year: but whenever yon see
the bow withdrawn, it shall be a token that
there shall be famine, pestilence, and great
distress among the nations, and that the>
coming of the Messiah la not far distant.'

But I will take the responsibility upoav
myself to prophesy in the name of the Lord*
that Christ will not come this year, am
Father Miller has prophesied, for we hava
seen the bow ; and 1 also prophesy, in the
name of the Lord, that Christ will mot
come in fobtt yeabs; and if ' God ever
spoke by my mouth, he will not come fat
that length of time. Brethren, wken yom
go home, write this down, that it nay bo
remembered.

Jesus Christ never did reveal to any asset
the precise time that he would com*. Q#>
and read the Scriptures, and yon cannot find
anything that specifies the exact hour hv
o

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSBPH SMITH.

would eome ; and all that aaj so are false
teachers.

There are some important things con-
cerning the office of the Messiah in the
organisation of the world, which I will
spSftk of hereafter. May God Almighty
bides yon and pour out bis Spirit npon yon,
is 'the prayer of your Unworthy servant.
ASmen*

At Jssif.past three, p.m., I met with the
Twelve, Bishop Miller, and the Temple
CtommitteQ, in the Nauvoo Mansion.

Tm following letter from Lyman
Wight and others was read : —

« Black BWer Falls, Feb. 15, 1844.
To the First Presidency and the Quorum of

the Twelve of the Church of Jesus

Christ of Latter-day Saiots*.

Bear Brethren, — Through the goodness
atra mercy of God, the Eternal Father, and
grace of our Lord and Saviour Jet as Christ,
we are permitted to write and send by a
special messenger a concise account of onr
lumbering operations, together with the
apparent prospects of the introduction and
spread of the Gospel among the Chippewa
■ sad Menomanee Indians, and also the pro-
jects of our hearts in regard to future
operations in spreading the Gospel south in
all the extent of America, and the con-
sequences growing out of the same, all of
which we beg leave to submit to your con-
sideration, that we may have your concur-
rence, or such views as shall be in accord-
ance with the mind and will of the Lord,
and gorern ourselves in acoordanoe thereto.

Since we have been here lumbering, we
have had many difficulties to encounter;
but 'the main hindrance to our successful
operations was the feeding, clothing, and
transporting a great many laay, idle men,
wjio have not produced anything by their
pretended labour, and thus eating up all
that the diligent and honest could produce
by their unceasing application to labour;
and ws hate not yet got entirely clear of
such persons.

But under all these mighty clogs and
hindrances, we have been able to accom-
plish and have in progress, so that we can
deliver in Nauvoo about one million feet of
lumber by the last of July next, which will
be a great deal more than what is necessary
to build the Temple and Nauvoo House.
Besides all this, we have made valuable
improvements here, — all the result of muob
labour done under trying circumstances.

"We have recently ascertained that the
lassi irosa the falls of Black River to its
souvgees is the property of the Menomanee
In&ans, and the General Goyernment
Jynr|ss^jitrged them to move from off the

193

lands in the vicinity of Green Bay to their
own lands. The Indians say they will/
provided the Government will remove all
strange Indians and trespassing white men
off their lands; consequently, the Agent
and Superintendent of Indian Affairs are
taking such steps as will stop all further
trespassing on the Indian lands, on * tho
Wisconsin, Black, and Chippewa Rivers*
under the penalties of the laws relative tor
the case.

We sent brothers Miller and Daniels, in
company with the principal ehief of the
Menomanee Indians, overland to the Wis-
consin River, to ascertain more about the
matter. They saw the agent ; found him a
gruff, austere man, determined to stop alt
trespassing on Indian land.

The Indians are willing to sell privileges
to individuals for lumbering and catting
timber, as they have hitherto done; but the
agent is opposed to it. Thus a difficulty
arises between themselves.

Now, as regards the introduction of the
Gospel of Christ among the Indians here, ib
will require more exertion, to all appear*
anocs, to check the enthusiastic ardour o£
these our red brethren, until the full prin-
ciples of faith in our Lord and Sa?iour
Jesus Christ shall be reasoned into thtie
minds, than te urge them on to receive it*
They have great confidence in us.

The country belooging to these northern
Indians is a dreary, cold region, and to a
great extent cranberry marshes, pine bar-
rens, and swamps, with a small amount of
good land, scarce of game, and only valuable
in mill privileges and facilities for lumber-
ing purposes.

As to mineral resources, they have not
been fnlly developed. There is no doubt as
to the abundance of iron ore, but uncertain
as to quantity*

Now, 4 under all these circumstance*, a
few of us here have arrived at this con-
clusion in our minds (such as can undergo
all things,)— that as the Gospel has not been
fully opened in all the South and South-
western States, as also Texas, Mexico,
Brazil, &c, together with the West Indian
Islands, having produced lumber enough to
build the Temple and Nauvoo House*— also
having an influence over the Indians, so as
to induce them to sell their lands to the
United States, and go to a climate south-
west, more congenial (all according to the
policy of the U. 8. Government), — ana" having;
also become convinced that the Church at
Nauvoo or in the Eastern States will not
build the Nauvoo House according to the
commandment, neither the Temple in a
reasonable time, and. that we have^ so far
as we have made trials, got means in the
south,— we have it in our minds to go ta

Digitized by Google

104

EDITORIAL.

the table lands of Texas, to a point we may
find to be the most eligible, there locate,
and let it be a place of gathering for all the
South (they being incumbered with that
unfortunate race of beings, the negroes) ; and
for us to employ our time and talents in
gathering together means to build accord-
ing to the commandments of our God, and
spread the Gospel to the nations according
to the will of our Heavenly Father. We,
therefore, our beloved brethren, send oar
worthy brother Young, with a few of our
thoughts, on paper, that you may take the
subject-matter under consideration, and
•return us such instructions as may be
according to the mind and will of the
Lord our God.

We have thought it best to sell the mills
here, if you may think it expedient. We
feel greatly encouraged to spend and be
spent in the cause of Christ, according to
the will of our Heavenly Father.

(To beet

Ton will, therefore, after due delibera-
tion, send us, by the hands of brother Young,
such instructions as may be the result of
your deliberations.

Holding ourselves ready under all circum-
stances in life to try to do all things what-
soever commanded or instructed to do by
those ordained to direct the officers of the
Church of Jesus Christ; subscribing our-
selves yours truly, while life shall endure,

Lyman Wight,
George Miller,
Phinbha.8 R. BiaD,
Pierce Hawlry,
John Youno,
Select Committee to write expressive
of the views of the Branch of the
Church at Black Biver Falls.

Joseph Smith, P. C,
Beigham Young, P. T.,
Willabd Richards, Clerk."

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 1861.

On Ships and Fares. — We are desirous at all times to inform the Saints
correctly on all matters which may have a bearing on their salvation, temporally or
spiritually, — to counsel them for their own individual good, and not for any benefit
we can receive from them. We find it is necessary sometimes to teach the Saints on
simple matters — on subjects which their own good sense and perceptions should have
precluded the necessity of our mentioning in a public manner. But as the Saints,
though many of them long in the Church, are quite inexperienced, we feel to talk
kindly to them and give them such instructions as may benefit them, even though
they may be, as it were, the first principles.

Some of the Saints, who are limited in means, and feeling anxious to emigrate,
wish to know if they should emigrate in vessels chartered by speculating ship*
brokers, because they advertise fares at a very low sum. Long experience has
taught us that u there is a way that seemeth right in a man's eyes, and the end
thereof is death." God has appointed men to take charge of the important depart-
ments of his work, and it is hoped and expected that the Saints will recognise the
wisdom of being obedient to every requirement made by them for their good, and
thus secure their salvation. We have to say, emphatically and distinctly, that the
authority in this land has been appointed and duly licensed to charter ships for the
accommodation and safety of the Latter-day Saints. We engage in this arduous
undertaking to do good to the Saints, and not to make money out of them. Oar
objects and desires are to administer for them alone in this matter, and to save then
much trouble in crossing the mighty deep in obedience to the command of God.
W^re our desires to make money, we know many better ways to accumulate the
glittering ore than opening a ship-broker's office for the poor Saint*.- It ia aboro*

Digitized by VjOOglC

EDITORIAL.

105

sighted and inconsistent to ask as to counsel the Saints to go in ships chartered by men
who may be, for aught we know, speculators and land sharks. Were we to do so, we
might as well close up business in that line, and abandon the Saints to the mercy of
men who are seeking to draw money out of the pockets of the poor and unsuspecting
emigrants. Surely the Saints know more of the world, and look to their own
interests better than not to know the superior advantages they possess in going in
company with Saints and in vessels chartered by the Church. It is true that some
brokers may offer a passage at a little lower price than the Church can (because
they have advantages of which we cannot avail ourselves) ; but every meanness is
too often resorted to, that the simple and unwary may be caught in the net of
duplicity. We say that we purpose making the fare as low as possible, to suit the cir-
cumstances of the Saints; and when we take everything into consideration, we conceive
that it is better, cheaper, and safer to go with our ships than any other. We charter
the best and most commodious vessels, purchase the best provisions in the market, and
leave no effort untried to secure comfort and pleasure to all the passengers ; and
though sometimes the fare may appear higher, it is actually much lower in the end.
We have had much experience in forwarding emigrants to their places of destination,
and we know of some who have acted independently and obtained berths at lower
fares at first; but we have invariably found that those persons have regretted their
course, having been great losers in the operation. We are confident, and we write
it for the good of the brethren, that those who will patronize speculators and go
with ships for the sake of a few shillings less will suffer great disappointment, and
retard their own progress on the way to Zion. The Prophet of God, seeing the
"wickedness of artful and designing men who would seek to rob the poor, and
.knowing the simplicity and ignorance of the Saints, that they would become a prey
to such characters, instituted this Office to prevent all abuse?, and that the Saints
might be counselled, directed, and forwarded by men of integrity, wisdom, and
business habits.

It is the duty of the Elders to teach the Saints their duty in this respect, and shb#
them plainly the advantages to be derived in sailing across the ocean and travelling
each a long journey with the brethren and sisters of the same faith, hope, and spirit,
and being under an organization designed for their comfort, health, and safety. The path
of duty is the path of life and safety; and we trust that the Saints will not forget to
learn these things and retain them in their memories, which will prevent much
unpleasantness and the evils of uncertainty.

' The foregoing remarks are equally as applicable to the Elders and Saints on the
European continent as to those in the British Isles.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — Elder C. Turner, President of
Dundee Conference, under date of Feb. 1st, writes that the Priesthood and Saints
under his charge are alive to their duties, growing in the knowledge of the truth,
and using every effort to spread the Gospel among the people. He states that the
Saints are united, and that " God has broken up the dense clouds and scattered
the thick mist of darkness that covered up the work there, by sending again his
servants from Zion, through whom he speaks forth the truths of heaven." A spirit
of inquiry is excited in that region ; the people are listening to the truth ; and, as a
consequence, several have been added to the Church of late by baptism.

Elder Joseph Stanford, President of Newcastle-upon-Tyne Conference, Feb. 2nd,
state* that "the work is moving steadily forward," and that they are baptizing

Digitized by CjOOg IC

106

EDITORIAL,

frequently in that Conference. The brethren who hare been recently appointed to
preside and labour there are exercising and spreading a good influence throu^oufc,
their fields of labour.

Elder Jeremy, President of the Welsh Mission, Feb. 4th, writes that the recent {
visit of Presidents Lyman and Rich to the Conferences in the Principality will b#
productive of much good.

Elder Richard Bentley, President of Norwich Conference, Feb. 4th, states that ,
the Saints live in the enjoyment of their holy religion, and that many who formerly
lagged on the way are arousing frojn their lethargy and returning into the foJdV
The meetings in several parts of the Conference are well attended by atrangejrs.

Elder Milo Andrus, President of the Birmingham District* Feb. 5th, writes cheer* .
ingly of the work in that region. The word seenis to have taken deep root in the
hearts of the Saints, and they enjoy the spirit of union and cotnmuoiop. The Saints
truly rejoice in the truth and enjoy the spirit of the Gospel. TJie congregations aro ;
increasing, and many inquirers lend an attentive ear to the preaching of the. word*
He feels sanguine that, despite opposition or persecution, the work is and will be o»,
the increase.

Inquiry Answered.— Cattle to be furnished from the Valley. — "Will it
be wisdom for us to start, if we can raise means to take us to Florence ?" is a&.,
inquiry which we have daily propounded to us by letter.

We are not in possession at present of sufficiently definite intelligence from Zion .
respecting the sending down of teams, to Florence to be able to answer th^s question]
satisfactorily. It is too early in the season yet for them to start. When they do) .
start, and the number of teams &c, be known, we shall expect to hear, if we do not
hear before, what proportion of them, if any, can be relied upon to take out poos
Saints who are only able at present to raise sufficient to take themselves to Florence*
As soon as we learn this ourselves, we shall gladly and without loss pf time com* ,
municate it to the Saints.

President Young has suggested that the departure of the Saints, or at least a good .
portion of them from this land, be so timed that they will reach Elorence about the ,
middle or last of June ; to accomplish which, it will be necessary for them to leave
here from the 10th to the last of April Last year's experience has demonstrated ,
the feasibility of sending cattle from Utah to the frontiers and having them return, ,
the same season. It was then proved that those sent down from the Valley to the
Missouri river were better able to perform the return trip successfully than are most of
the cattle that can be bought near the frontiers. The Saints in the Valley have but*
plus cattle, for which they need a market to obtain money to purchase necessary
articles of merchandize. When the number that is needed by our emigration is
known there, the cattle can be driven down to Florence and turned over to Elders Jones
and Gates, who will be acting as agents for the emigrating Saints, and the monej .
be expended in merchandize for the owners of the stock, which they can freight
back in their own teams sent down for the purpose.

We oan see many advantages that will attend a plan of this kind. The emigrating
Saints will have hardy, reliable cattle, accustomed to the Plains, and too well \
acquainted with alkali water and grass to be poisoned by them, as is the case every
season with cattle bought on the frontiers. The Saints in the Valley will obtain m
cash market for their stock ; and by being in a position to purchase their articles of
merchandize at reasonable rates and freight them in their own teams, they will save the
enormous profits which have hitherto been paid to strange merchants on all article^

Digitized by Google

cnmaTiAKiTY akd " mormonism." 107

brought bj them to the Valley. The carrying out of this plan, it will be seen, will
retail m mutual benefit. Anything that promotes the interest of one Saint whose
interest is all in Zion promotes the interest of every other one similarly interested.

Utah is not equalled as a graiing country by any other lying eastward of it, and
indeed we doubt if it be surpassed by any within the limits of the United States. Cattle
raised there are of a superior quality, excellently adapted for freighting across the
Plains; and we can see no reason why our emigration cannot be supplied from there
as- well as or better than they can be from elsewhere.

In view of the above arrangement, we hope that the Presidents of Districts and
Conferences will do all in their power to forward us as early as possible all orders for/
cattle that may be needed by the Saints, so that we may be able to transmit imme-
diately the number to our agents and to the Valley.

Abbiyai*. — Arrived per steamship Fulton, on the 18th ult, Elder W. G. Mills, as
Missionary from Utah to this country.

Notice. — If any of the presiding Elders, or others, should know the whereabout*
ef Ann Williams, Margaret Lloyd, and child, we shall be glad if they will communis
eate the same to this Office.

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."*

BY BLD&B B. L. SLOAW.

(Continued from page 92.)

It is with a sort of awe that professed
believers in the Bible look back in
imagination on the miraculous manifesta-
tions of power displayed by the Lord
Jesus Christ and his immediate followers.
Every recorded incident in their career
which bears the character of superhuman
intelligence and power has been handed
down from generation to generation, and
has been viewed with increased venera-
tion and wonder, till the actors in those
strange and certainly heaven- favoured
scenes have been clothed with a thousand
characteristics almost rivalling in absurdity
the fabled heroes of heatben mythology,
and have been invested with an imaginary |
power far transcending that which they
possessed or laid claim to.

It is firmly believed by thousands at
the present time that the propagandists
of early Christianity possessed the power
of staying the hand of the Destroyer and
rolling back the rapidly- ebbing currents
ef fife into their natural channels by the
mere volition of will, or by simply pro-
nouncing a few words at any time they

pleased, — thatthey could divert the laws of
nature from their legitimate course, con-
trol the elements at will, and even bid
grim Death stand back appalled before
the power they wielded. In fact, though
the intelligent student of New Testament
history may be able to judge more cor
rectly, it is the belief of professing
Christians in general that the Son of
Cod and his Apostles could change sick-
ness to health, rebuke all manner of
diseases and evil spirits, exercise un-
bounded control over the elements of
nature, and even raise the dead to
life, independent of surrounding circum-
stances, whenever and wherever they
chose to exercise the power which they
possessed. That this is not an exag-
gerated statement of their belief on this
matter, the course pursued by them
towards the Latter-day Saints bears
ample testimony. Meeting the Priest-
hood of the last days with the cuckoo
cry, a Show us a miracle, and we wul
believe on you," they ape the position of
those pious Pharisees who demanded of

* «4UQVflMBtm** la ae*ase*bereae a tagttinate wordy It being an epttbet fattened on the aystemi ee
to ej <m* enemies. '* Menn opiate" ao4 Christianity are essentially the same.

Digitized by

CHRISTIANITY AND

168

Ohrist a sign ; and when their hypocritical
query is met by calm reasoning, they in-
stantly assume — "Oh, you have not the
power; or, if yon had, you would convince
us." Endeavouring to explain away the
visible and continual manifestations of the
power of God in our midst, by marshalling
aQ their collated facts of the power of
imagination, and when these will not
serve their purpose, charging the "Mor-
mons" as ingenious applicants of the
* 'mesmeric influence,' 7 they point with ex-
ultation to any instance which may come
under their notice of the Elders laying on
hands for the recovery of the sick and fail-
ing to obtain the desired blessing, betray-
ing a culpably ignorant amount of infi-
delity concerning the very evidence which
they greatly blame the Jews for rejecting.
Every such instance which comes under
their observation they magnify into
another incontestable evidence of the
credulous gullibility of the "Mormons,"
and tb#ir arrogant presumption in laying
claim to the blessings, girts, and powers
promised by the Saviour to his disciples
and all true believers, and which follow
surely in attendance on God's Priesthood
in power upon the earth.

Such an unbounded power as they
believe was enjoyed by the ancient Apos-
tles, if exercised on behalf of man, would
change the very nature of his existence
and open the floodgates of evil for a host
of ills to enter in which would embitter
his existence, while that existence would
be indefinitely prolonged at the caprice
of a mortal endowed with omnipotence,
contrary to, and in spite of every law
which governs his physical organization.
Thus man, possessing a consciousness that
by courting the favour of some such
omnipotently endowed mortal, his life
could be extended to an indefinite period
by having disease successfully rebuked as
often as it fastened upon his system, even
though chat favour was gained by hypo-
crisy and fraud, would have no incentive
to cultivate those heavenly principles by
which his existence could be perpetuated
eternally in happiness, and with a natural
love of life would struggle to continue
that existence amid all its growing and
increasing cares, perplexities, and sorrows,
till life would become a burden to him,
and he would desire to lay it down,
without having taken the first step
towards securing that valueless price, for
the obtaining of which an existence was

" HORftf ONBM,"

appointed to him in this probation. True,
no sane individual would believe in such
an absurdity as to suppose that such
power would be granted to, or could be
wielded by mortal man now. But why
believe in what would be an absurdity
now, simply because it happens to be a
few centuries old? and why reject the
testimony of miracles offered by the
Latter-day Saints, because in some in- .
stances the desired blessings are not
obtained, when it would be an absurdity
to suppose that God would invest man
with such an unlimited power in these
days? Is not one well-substantiated
manifestation of the miraculous power of
God sufficient to establish the divinity of
that power which is exercised, as far as
such testimony can go, though half-a-
score failures could be adduced, which
would only succeed in proving that man
was dependent on a higher being than
himself for the exercise of that power
committed to his charge ?

But it is a" misconception, to say the
least of it, of the authority and power
vested in and exenrsed by the founders
of Christianity, to hold such an opinion ;
and though it may startle and almost
shock the reverential feelings of many
pious individuals, it is nevertheless a fact
that the power wielded by the Son of
God himself was limited, or bounded
by the influences which surrounded him.
For not until he had u desoended below
all things," even to the succumbing to
Death itself, did he "rise above all things."
And it was only after his resurrection,
when he had wrestled with the King of
Terrors in his own grim stronghold, and
had wrested from him " the keys of death
and hell," arising triumphantly from the
sepulchre, where his martyred body had
been laid, that he could say, "All power
is given unto me in heaven and on earth."
The devout believer who with feelings of
reverence reads of that Jesus whom lie
desires to serve and love, rising from his
sleep in the little storm- laboured ship
manned by his fishermen disciples, ana
stilling the angry waves, walking on the
wind-Tashed sea at the still hour of night*
or calling forth the dead Lazarus from
his cold, dark grave to life and vigour,
can hardly bring himself to 'believe that
such power could be limited or bounded,
and wonders why the divinity of Christ's
nature and mission was not recogniaed
and owned by all, forgetting that his owa

Digitized by

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

disciples, who believed in his power and
had been the moat frequent witnesses of
it, asked themselves on one of these occa-
sions what manner of man he was whom
even the winds and waves obeyed, and
passing lightly over that particular pas-
sage which scatters his theories to the
winds when it declares of the Saviour
that " He could there do no mighty work,
aawe that he laid his hands on a few sick
folk and healed them " (Mark vi. 6,)— a
statement which the Evangelist would not
have made, unless Jesus had attempted to
■sinister blessings to his friends around
the home of his childhood, and in par-
ticular instances had been unable to com-
municate the virtues of that power whicb
he possessed, " because of their unbelief."

It is not reasonable to suppose that the
chroniclers of early Christianity would
trouble themselves to record the instances
c£ failure which attended the ministra-
tions of the Saviour and bis Apostles in
endeavouring to bless mankind by the
exercise of those miraculous powers
which they possessed. They were writ-
ing to strengthen the faith of believers
and to assist in propagating the religion
they professed, neither of which purposes
could have been subserved by introducing
anything calculated to depreciate the
Divine character of that being whom
they presented to the world as an object
•f adoration. There would have been
no utility and no wisdom in doing so:
hence they chronicled those instances
where the power of Ood was visibly and
sniraculously displayed ; and it is only by
an occasional admission, like the one

rted, that we have recorded grounds
maintaining that in many instances
the miraculous power failed where an
endeavour was made to use it. Faith on
the part of the recipient of the bleating
must have exercised considerable influ-
ence, as we find Jesus repeatedly saying,
-Thy faith hath made thee whole* "If
thou betievest," &o. ; to which may be
added the already quoted fact of his ina-
hifity to perform mighty works among his
awn kindred and early associates because
ef their unbelief. Notwithstanding the
mpeated sneers of the world at the "Mor-
mons * requiring faith on the part of those
to whom they administer, we find the
same fimitation of power on the part of the
Apostles tacitly admitted by Paul, whose
very apron had been used to heal di s e as es,
whan be writes that be left "Trophism

sick at Miletuni" (2 Tim, iv. 20^— a
most unlikely thing for him to have Qone,
if be could have healed him.

But, apart from all recorded Scripture
on the subject, it would have been unjust
towards the Jews as a people, and towards
the Apostles and early disciples as indi-
vidual*, if this unlimited power had been
vested in and exercised bv the mortal
Jesus and his successors. It would have
been unjust towards the Jews, because
their honesty of heart would never have
had an opportunity of being fairly tested ;
but, carried away by the continual, dee-
ding, and uninterrupted manifestations of
miraculous power in their midst, they
would have been compelled to acknow-
ledge the divinity of Jesus; and acting
upon the evidence of sight, and not walk-
ing by faith, tbey would have blindly
trusted in the mighty possessor of un-
limited power who moved in their midst.
Subjects to the evidence of one of the
grosser senses, they would have bowed
ignorantly to a mental despotism, instead
of acting as intelligent agents, responFible
for the use of that intelligence and agency,
and untried in the first and simplest trial
which Ood requires his children to un-
dergo. Unlearned in the first rudiments of
the science of eternal life, they could not
have progressed "from faith to faith," and
could not have prepared themselves to
become "heirs of God and joint-heirs
with Jesus Christ," who, through faith,
obedience, and suffering, perfected himself
and the salvation of all those who follow
in his footsteps ; neither could they have
prepared themselves for the fiery tor-
menu which await all those who sin
against light and knowledge, and reject
the counsel of God to their own con-
demnation ; for " without faith it is im-
possible to please God."

It would have been unjust towards the
successors of Christ to endow them with
such a power while labouring under the
weaknesses of fallen humanity and the
many imperfections of mortal beings pos-
sessing ail the passions and frailties of
men — a power which would have robbed
them of that trusting confidence in God
which was the mainspring of all their la-
boursand hopes, bv raising them so far above
their fellow mortals, — a power so much cal-
culated to inspire them with presumptuous
arrogance and to foster every feeling of vain
ambition and weak,, pompous pride so
interwoven with the human character.

Digitized by

110

CORRESPONDENCE.

God is too just, too kind, and too good
to bestow upon man an unlimited power
which he has not experience and wisdom
to use, and leaves his servants to feel con-
tinually their dependence upon him by
restricting at his own good pleasure an
authority delegated to them for the good
of his children and the blessing and salva-
tion of the human family.

It is this authority and power which
the Former- day Saints possessed that the

Latter-day Saints lay claim to and enjoy-*
a power used by neither the Priesthood
of former or latter days indiscriminately
and unboundedly, but controlled, re
8 trie ted, and guided by the Lord God
Omnipotent, who conferreth upon man ia
his wisdom those gifts and blessings best
calculated to happify and save him, if be
will only so live in humility and righteous-
ness as to obtain and retain them.

(To be continued.)

CORRESPONDENCE.

WILES.

Tredegar, January 30, 1861.

Dear Brother George,— Tour favour
of the 28th came to hand yesterday.
We are in tolerable health, and hope
the improvement in yours may continue.
Since our last to you from Cardiff, we
liave visited and held meetings in Tree-
forest, in which a good spirit seemed to
pervade the Saints, and strangers listened
with apparent interest to our testimony
of the truth. The incessant rain, while
toere, prevented us from seeing, as we
liad hoped to have done, some of the
mementos of the past connected in some
way with the history of the Druids; but
curiosity was forced reluctantly to yield
to circumstances we could not control.
From this point we went to Merthyr
^Tydvil, where we were kindly entertained
hj brother William Morgan. On Saturday
morning we were surprised and cheered
bj the shining of the sun, who looked
forth with his smile of gladness to cheer
the dark abodes of sorrowing humanity.
Our morniiiff repast despatched, we, in
company witn some of our friends, went
cut tor a stroll. We visited an establish-
ment for the manufacture of iron, the
property of Mr. Crawshaw.

We met with one feature in the carry-
ing on of the works that was most
revolting to our sense of right: that
was the way in which we saw women
employed in performing labour in moving
and breaking with heavy hammers the
jrock that was a full tax for the strength
of the stalwart man. The question arose
in our minds, What can be the feelings of
the pun+proudone who thus can see the
degradation of his own kind, merely to

put the golden fruit of their toil in his
coffers, that its glitter shall reflect the
poverty and wretchedness of the poor,
and its ringing music be the requiem over
the grave of that dignity which humanity
derives from the fountain of its Being r
Thus its divinity and virtue were the
bleeding victims we saw sacrificed at the
shrine of Mammon. When, we ask, will
this impious worship cease, and man's
loftiest aspiration and most intense de-
sire ever be the elevation of his race to
the high destiny that in his nature is
made attainable ?

We held a Conference on Sunday, 2tth,
and had a good time, both morning and
evening. Saints and strangers were in
attendance. We have addressed a brief
letter to the Saints in the Welsh Mission,
to be published, as we could not see them
all. We expect to be in Liverpool be-
tween the 17th and 20th of February.
Next Sabbath we shall be at Newport,
and shall remain there until Tuesday
following ; then we go to Bristol.
Yours in the truth,

Am asa M. Lyman,
Charles C. Rich.

BHOliAlfD.

Maibro', Jan. 36, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother George, — I hope yom
have not thought for one moment tjbat
I have forgotten you. Not a day has
passed since I parted with you but I oar*
thought of you, in connection with bro-
thers Lyman and Rich. My only reason
has been that I have been visiting, my
relatives, and concluded that I would not
trouble you before I had got through and

Digitized by Google

Ill

ready to go to work in mj field of labour.
I found my relatives, wno at one time
sjpaxeely ever noticed me. Borne of them,
'who once thought I was a disgrace to
them, are now delighted to see me. I
attribute this to the idea they hare that
any worldly circumstances are favourable*
I did not forget to remind them of my
for met position and treatment, and also the
feelings I had in consequence. I did it.
liowever, in such a manner, that instead
-of causing anger, in one or two instances
It caused tears. Before I left London, I
attended two meetings on Sunday, and a
Priesthood meeting on the Tuesday fol-
lowing. Brothers Brown, Cook, Lyman,
Taylor, and your humble servant spoke.
I was surprised to see so many of the Priest-
hood together. They all appeared to be
Move determined than ever to serve the
fjord and to magnify their calling and
asmstln building up the kingdom of God
totem the earth.

. . whue at Bedford, the brethren wished
'gfie to meet with them. I did so, and we
Jbad a good fime. I left Bedford for this
tSplace where 1 have been one week; and
dtbe day after my arrival being feunday,
2 received a note requesting me to meet
writh the Saints in Botherham. I am
aVappy to say we had a good time. I
4*«bd the' Saints to be wry poor, but
-emjoying a good spirit. I visited the
gnrh Iron Works, to see the plates rolled
gat the gunboats. This was an interest-
ing sight to me. Earl FitewilUam was
n/i cs cnt . The plate we saw rolled weighed
vpwards of 5 tons, and was about 14 feet
4 Jest wide, and D Roches thick.
> the heat' of such a massive piece
It took about fifty men
the machmery. One
.the whole by signals
with the hand. Tue time of rolling was
ejfiry \hret> minutes after the slab was cold.

~t3t* red hot iron !
to woii it, beside

j Jt met with a brother Memmott here,
who invited me to see him at Sheffield, it
only about half- an- hour's ride. I
1 him I would spend a few hours
I found on my arrival he had
given out a notice that I would speak at
£ne meeting on Thursday night: con
sjnently, I went to the meeting, found
warm-hearted Saints, spoke to
and they appeared delighted to
of the prosperity of Zion, and to

know that the leaders of Israel have
power over their enemies. I shall, if all
is well, leave this place on Monday for
London. I have felt the Spirit of the
Lord with me, and hope that my
visit has done good. I hope now to
$o to with all my might and assist my
rcethren to oarry out the instructions we
may receive from time to time. This is
all I have m view — to help to build up the
kingdom of 'God, and spread the Gospel
amongst the honest in heart. 1 I have
felt sometimes as though I could not do
much, not being used to speaking in pub-
lic i but thus far I have found that, in
my poor fetjble way, I have comforted the
Saints wherever I have been ; and for this
I feel thankful to my Heavenly Father.
My prayer is that we mar be instrumental
in doing much good and gather many of
the honest in heart to the land appointed
for his people.

Please to remember me to brothers
Lyman and Rich ? and to all those whom I
am acquainted with, and believe me ever
to be your well wishing and humble ser-
vant in the cause of Christ,

Wm. 0. Staines.

KOBWICH DISTRICT.

CaUkcote, Feb. 4, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— Since I last wrote you,
I have been travelling from Branch to
Branch in this the Bedford Conference,
and have enjoved myself first-rate. The
Saints feel well and rejoice in the Gospel
of Christ. I have numbers of strangers
attend my meetings. Yesterday we held
a District meeting at E) utsbury, and had
over one hundred strangers. I can truly
say Unit the prospect is good in these
country places for a great ingathering
into the Church. In fact, there is no spirit
to mob at all. The Elders have pretty full
liberty to preach ; and I can say that a good
feehng is manifest throughout the Con-
ference. At present brother Bull is with
me. He feels very well^and desires to bless
the Saints.

I believe that all things will prosper
throughout this District, as we have good
men for Conference Presidents, and we
are full of faith that we shall accomplish
good.

May God bless you is my prayer.
1 am your brother, &c,

K. H. Blackbtoh.

Digitized by

Google

112

SUMMARY.— POKTRY.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AMD PASSING EVENTS. r

General. — A. telegram from Constantinople says that a great storm prevails in the
Black Sea. On the 28th nit., 2,000 Sardinian •, with cavalry and artillery, attacked ti>e
reactionary troops at Canco, the fight lasting seven hours. The Sardinians afterward* .
evacnated the Papal territory, in compliance with orders from the Emperor Napoleon.
The Convention between England and Sardinia for the establishment of international
copyright in literature and art is published in the Gazette*

America*. — Another star (the Georgian) has fallen. The State Convention have
adopted and signed the secession ordinance, in which they M declare and ordain that the
union now subsisting between the State of Georgia and other States, under the name of
the Vnited 8tates, is hereby dissolved, and that the State of Georgia is in full possession
a and exercise of all those rights of sovereignty which belong and appertain to a free and
' independent State." The programme for the secession of Louisiana has al?o been agreed
upon by the leading members of the State Convention. Aletterfrom Washington, dated Jan.
21, says — "The most solemn and impressive scene that has occurred in the Capitol during
the pending troubles was witnessed to-day in the formal withdrawal of Senators Davis, of
Mississippi ; Kirkpatrick and Clay, of Alabama, and Mallory and Yolee, of Florida. . The
farewell words of Col. Davis drew tears from the eyes of many Senators. After their
departure, Senator Mason, a gentleman of commanding influence in the Senate, and a noble
representative of the great State of Virginia, thrilled the Senate chamber with the bold
declaration that ' the Union was now dissolved,* and pointed to the vacant chairs of the
retiring Senators as vesication of the fact. His remarks seemed for the first time
to force upon Senators on both sides, and also upon the audience, a realizing
sense of the momentous events now daily occurring — the dissolution of the Union,
the breaking up of the Government, and the awful imminence of civil war. So still
were the audience during the delivery of his remarks, that one could almost fancy he heard
the beatings of their hearts. The occurrences of the last twenty-four hours at the seat -of
Government afford but little encouragement that a peaceful solution of the difficulties can
be attained." The President adheres to his position in regard to the forte id Charges tbn
Harbour, and emphatically refuses, under any circumstances, to surrender fort Somier to
the authorities of South Carolina. Letters from Charleston give gloomy accounts' of
affairs there. Slaveholders who formerly had to pay a tax of 75 cents on each of their
slaves are now taxed 16 dollars on each. The Senate has passed the Bill for the admission
of Kansas into the Union as a free State. .

POETRY.

FAREWELL TO ENGLAND. ' '

; i

Farewell to thee, England ' for ever farewell I 'lis sad to leave kindred unto oa ao dear— ' - f

I go to a land where earth's noblest ones dwell— To leave thenUn darkness, confusion, and frar r

The chambers of Israel ao lovely and fair ; © grant that they soon. Lord, thy statu tea may learn*

War virtue may bloom In security there. And home with the ranaomed of Israel renin. .

The voice of my God/through his Priesthood, I hear, What joy it would be those beloved anee felee

To bleu and sustain ma, to comfort and cheer. From Babylon hastening to Zton ao free, f

While I from my native land hasteu away : To join with the faithful sweet praises to aiba> *

Jehavah haa spoken, and I must obey. Awaiting the advent of Jesus their King. ' '

Paddington. _ El lex HAiujaa^

CONTENTS.

Division of the United States— Causes which Christianity and Monnoniam" ...... w- ...... 'iSiT

have Hastened it „ 97 Correspondence. — Wales : Letter from Pre4

HUtory of Joseph Smith 102 sideuts Lyman and Rich. England: f "

Editorial.— On Ships and Fares.-— Abstract of t rem Elder Staines. Norwich District: 1

News from the Conferences.— Inquiry An. from Elder Blackburn . M .

awered — Cattle to be Kurnlahed from the Summary of Newa and Passing Events...

Valley.— Arrival.— Notice 1Q4 Poetry.— Farewell to England........^....

LIVERPOOL: J J

SDITXD Alin PUBLISHED BT CBOBOE Q. CAKVOK, 42, ISfclVwTOK. •
LONDON: It'
rem SAL* at vast LArraa-BAv saintV aooa oarer, 30, plobbncs stout, caosa stobst, ssaisfojew,

A XV ALL BOOKS* LUCKA.

raufTst) av jam** and xxrnxw, 51, seam john street, aivaarooi.. ' '

Digitized by

Google

THB -LATTER-DAY 8AIS#

MILLENNIAL STAR.

*i aftfti* AeM come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations:
hi m plead wOM aHJlethi he viH give them that are wicked to the ewerd\ eaith the L&reW—

Jta, 8, Vol. xxin.

Saturday, February as, 1861.

Prlet One Penny.

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONJSJI,

Hara» briefly

BT ELDfcB B. L. SLOAN. 1

(Continued Jrom page

„ zr — 4 examined the hounds
andexteStofttfc miraculous power vested
inland exercbed* by the founder* of
Qhristhnity," let us now glance at its
manifestations as a point of evidence in
(avcrnrof the divinity of Christ's mission
toman. That it formed a strong link
b the chain of evidence adduced in sup-
port of 'his claims, there is no doubt ; hut
mat It was ai ^overwhelming in its nature
sad character as is generally supposed,
%t are fyiio 'means disposed to admit.

In ^b* first place, 4 the Jews were, or
•ngfit to have been, well acquainted With
ifce nature and character of miraculous
maBbtatfona ; for the whole history of
the** chfldrfcn of ^Israel sparkled with
^orkms panoramic scenes of the might
Jfc&^ower of ' Jehovah signally and
!™SJ displayed for and amongst them.
And iioV only old their ancient records
J^ntoiittouWfadiUous instances' of G6d*B
}ftaSjkste& power, but they bore un-
m&yfceable istimony to the fact that
miracles hid been wrought by individuals
jhfciftre acting indirect opposition to
. *ne jpwposea flifdn, such as the
of BgjM Mb, by their won-
,«rt wrought in ^HHkm to and in the

presence of Moses and Aaron, encouraged
and strengthened Pharaoh in his rebellious
Course towards the requisitions of Jehovah
made through Jiis servants. Hence, witfi
this knowledge of the past, the ancient
Pharisees, unwilling to admit the truth,
declared that, through Beelzebub, the
prince of devils, Jesus did cast out
devils, and ' demanded of him a sigh
from heaven, the casting out of an evil
spirit from a dumb man, so that he spake,
(Luke xi. 15, 16*,) being insufficient to
cohvinde them that 'the Jesus who so
plainly denounced 1 then? guile and hypo-
crisy was the Christ who was to come*
As In these latter timed, when those born
dttmb have been made to speak by the
power of God, (Mitt. Star, Vol. II., page
377,) a generation which condemns the
Jews for rejecting the testimony of mira-
cles sneers' at the substantiated fact, and
modern Pharisees 'demand a "sign from
heaven" td convince them, like their pro-
totypes of old.

Next, the miracles performed during
the first century of the Christian era
were not near so mmierous as many
imagine. The New f Testament certainly
contains, for so small a book, an account

v * 4*lfannaalMA M ta not use* hero, m a legitimate wofd, it beta* an epithet fattened oa fee pyttaa Wt

Digitized by

Google

114

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONIfflaV

of many miracles; bat to arrive at a
correct conclusion relative to whether
these miracles were numerous in point of
time, we must consider not onlj the size
of the book, but the lapse of time covered
by it as a record. Small as it is, the
minor part of it, from Matthew to the
close of the Acts, embraces, according to
acknowledged chronology, a period over
sixty years ; and when we consider again
that many incidents are repeated by each
of the four Evangelists, it will be seen
that, numerically, the recorded instances
of miraculous power do not really occupy
the prominent position usually assigned
to them. It could be proven, if facts
were collected, that there have been
more visible manifestations of the power
of God displayed in any one Conference of
the Latter-day Church in England, since
the introduction of the Gospel to the%e
lands, substantiated by thousands of
living witnesses in and out of the Church,
than are recorded in the entire New
Testament ; and if these were multiplied
by the experience of all the Saints in
every Conference and Mission throughout
the world of a church but thirty years
established, an array of miraculous tes-
timony would be adduced such as no other
generation ever had presented to it. Yet
wis generation condemn the Jews, while
they are a hundredfold more culpable
themselves.

Again: The object of miracles was
not to convince unbelievers, nor does any
recorded instance prove that such was
the case, but to bless those who had
faith, and to strengthen the testimony of
believers. From a misconception of the
nature and limits of the power enjoyed
in early apostolic times, added to the
fact of miracles gradually decreasing in
number and point of magnitude, and
eventually ceasing, the idea originated
that they were intended only for the
introduction of Christianity, and were no
longer needed after it was established.
A careful analysis of those wrought
during the career of Jeans and subsequent
to his crucifixion dissipates this idea; for
if they had been intended to be used as
strongly overpowering evidences of the
divinity of his mission, publicity would
have been courted on every available
occasion, instead of being sedulously
shunned. If he had wanted to inaugurate
his mission with a significant display of
his power, a most favourable opportunity

presented itself on the occasion of working
his first miracle. A marriage feast found
him at Cana of Galilee, which, according
to the Jewish custom would necessarily
bring together a numerous party — relatives
and friends of the bridegroom and bride.
That their social position was superior to
the poorer classes of the people, the

gresence of servants amply proves. There
e first displayed the miraculous power
which he possessed, by turning water
into wine; but who were the witnesses?
Did he call together the governor of the
feast and the invited guests, that they
might be prepared to testify of it? Did
he assemble the respectable $ Doubtless,
some of the pious members of society con-
gregated there, whose voice would have
been listened to by the influential men of
the nation? Did he call them all together,
that they might declare his wondrous
power in the regions round about ? No ;
but the only witnesses to the fact were
the servants, whose assistance he could
not well have dispensed with, as their
services were required to fill the pots
with water, and carry that water, when
changed into wine, to the governor of
the feast, — a most unlikely course of pro*
cedure, if he had desired to convince the
people by the working of miracles.
Again, we find him healing a leper, and
strictly charging him not to tell any man
of it, (Matt, viiu 3, 4,)— which, if he had
desired to give publicity to bis miracles,
would have been either silly or hypocritical ;
and surely no professing Christian would
dare prefer either charge against the Bon
of God. After this, we find him in hi*
own city, and there curing a man sick
of the palsy, or something lie a shivering
numbness; but was this individual brought
to him that the people might have a
"sign" to convince them? So far from
this being the case, it was by the very
manifestation of their faith that his
bowels of compassion were stirred within
him, and he called down upon the sufferer
that blessing which he needed and de-
sired; and so ignorant of his true charac-
ter were the people by whom this case
of healing was witnessed, that **ther
glorified God which had given soon
power unto mm." (Matt. ix. 2, 8.)
When a Greatrakes, somewhat over
two centuries ago, healed the sick by the
touch of his hands, the people thanked
God for bwHi pvwer uwng committed to
but when in our own time the*

Digitized by

Google

tHUSTIAXITY AND " MORMOXWM /

115

My Frisstheod go forth and beal the
sack by tht laying on of hands in the
sauna of Jesus, their claims are repudiated
and themselves cast out as evil, because
they daim the commission of Heaven as
at and authority for calling
to repentance, while they minister
to those suffering under the
i of humanity. Again, we find
two blind men following Jesus, crying,
** Thorn son of David, have mercy upon
an," and desiring to have sight given unto
Did he take these men and gather
t his opposers, that he might con-
foaad and convince them by a display of
Ins power ? So far from such beiag the
ease, he quietly asked them, " Believe ye
that I am able to do this?* and upon
their answering, " Tea, Lord," he touched
their eyes, saying, ? According to your
faith be it unto you. 19 It seems that they
bad frith sufficient to be healed, for they
received their sight But, instead of re-
quiring them to bear testimony of it, he
•* atraidv charged them, saying, See that
so man know it." (Matt. ix. 27—30.)

Of necessity, during the period which
lad elapsed from his setting forth to pro-
claim his mission up to the time when
tins last case of healing occurred, he must
liave poured forth the blessings of health
-and strength upon many invalid and
5 to establish such faith in his
but we can only reason of the
i pursued bj him generally from the
Incidents recorded. Immediately previous
to tins we find him raising the daughter
of Jains to life ; but, in doing so, did he
pause a course calculated to strike the
people with awe at such a miraculous
ac^ and come el them to believe in hb
dmnity ? Not so; for he told them she
was mot dead, but iUeping, and turned
Hkemout of the house, having no witnesses
Imt her father and mother, with Peter
and Jobsv— all believers in his power and
m ;—m« . and in their presence he called
sjpon her to arise. Such a course of action
vnifbnnly pursued by him was, according
to aaooVra logic, open to grave suspicions.
What so easy as for the acute sceptics to
awtpu ee and give publicity to their sup-
— 1 — i gut the girl was not dead, but

anereJyinatrance, from which be awakened
~ker by some peculiar secret she possessed.
* Wh^ doubtless, they queried, "did he

people out, if his power was true
-—pa, and there was no fraud
Doubtless, too, they shook

their sapient beards, as .their
brethren do their wise heads, at the cre-
dulity .of the ignorant multitude, and
hinted strongly at the power of inwgina-
tion on the part of the palsied man, and
imposition in tbe case of the blind men,
questioning the , fact of a M Sabbath-
breaker"-- a "friend of publicans and stn-
ners" — a " gluttonous man" and a u wine-
bibber " performing such works ; for Jesus
had all these unenviable epithets attached
to his character by his pious (?) contem-
poraries; and if they did find themselves
compelled to admit that some strange and
miraculous works had been performed,
how easy it was to bring up the case of
the magicians, or cite instances of wizards
and those having familiar spirits of former
times, justasnownointelligent(?), pious (?),
or respectable (?) person would for a single
moment believe that "a money-diffier
and bar-room fiddler like Joseph Smith,"
as his enemies represent him, or " licen-
tious polygamists," as the Latter-
day Saints are represented to be, could
do anything savouring of the miraculous
by the power of God. And besides, this
character of the Saints and their great
founder is furnished on such unimpeach-
able testimony ! Reverend divines ! truth-
loving editors 1 assisted by virtuous and
pure (!) officials and judge, and a host of
honest-minded (I) men and women, who,
by the merest chance in life, effected
their escape from the u Mormon Pande-
monium," or, in other language, from the
grasp of broken laws as the "wine-
bibbing," u gluttonous," and "devil- pos-
sessed character of Christ was drawn by
solemn-faced Pharisees, pious teachers of
the people, noted for their long prayers,
and other equally respectable, trustworthy,
and truth-loving individuals.

There was a peculiar and significant
fact connected with the preaching of the
Gospel eighteen centuries ago, and one
that is associated with it now, which it
might be well to notice here. It was
almost invariably that portion of society
known as the ignorant poor that followed
Jesus, rejoioed m his teachings, and had
faith in his miracles. It is the poor
who in this generation have been the
recipients ef Gospel blessings, and have
been witnesses of the power of God made
manifest. The * credulous," "Wind,"
and * easily-deceived" multitude bore
testimony, by their presence and voice, to
their appreciation of the works and

Digitized by

Goegle

CHRIST IAMITT AND " U0RH0KI81I.

teachings of Jesus; but that testimony 3
fit repudiated and explained away by
the philosophers, divines, and pietists of
that generation ; and it is the " credulous
*nd ^ullihle" poor who now bear tes-
timony in thousands of eases to the visible
Heatings of God towards them ; yet their
-testimony is rejected by a generation that
W*U yet come bending for blessings and
station to the Israel of the last days.
Why, the very individual called back to
He, after being dead for days, the greatest
miracle recorded of Jesus, was, as far
aa we have any account, very poor, if not
a common pauper. His sisters were poor,
and, of necessity, their associates were
peer; for when did the rich mingle in
their associations with the poor? Yet
Jesus loved him, called him horn, the
tomb, and restored him to his mourning
fiunilv, not to convince the people of the
divinity of his mission — not to compel
them to believe on his name, but through
his love for Lazarus and his sisters, whose
iaith called into action the power of
<3hrist on behalf of their brother. Were
the witnesses to that miracle believed by
the leaders of the Jews when they testified
of it ? If they were, then those to whom
they testified acted in a most strange
wanner when they counselled together
£hat they might put to death a man who
tad just been called from the dead to
motive life in their midst. That Jesus
polked upon the water, the Evangelists
declare; out who were his witnesses?
Why, his own disciples; and the same
Individuals only could testify that he
palmed the raging wind. Was it likely
.that an unbelieving people would credit
,these miracles upon the testimony of his
associates alone ? He fed a vast multitude
*with a few loaves and fishes ; but who of
.that multitude were witnesses of the
miraculous increase of food ? Evidently
act all, if any but a few; and they were
rtheeemost closely associated with him,as he
•counselled with his Apostles on the matter,
'and made them his instruments for
serving the many.

"The truth of the miracles performed
/fey "Christ is not for a moment questioned,
,lmt their influence as an evidence of his
mission is greatly over-rated, and their
^vnlidity and the heaven»born power bv
.-which they were wrought was questioned,
,at the time,- upon grounds equally as
jaolid as the validity of the latter-day
miracles are questioned. Were those

miracles greater than these? Then 1m
claims were greater. He claimed to ha
the direct Son of God, and his language
in putting forth that claim waa con-
sidered so blasphemous by the Jews, i*
whose ears rang the (to them) mystic cry
of " Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God
is one Lord," that they considered they ^
were doing God's service in putting hint
to death. Joseph claimed to be a Pro-
phet and an Apostle of Jesus Christ, and
his daims have been substantiated bj
many mighty miracles ; yet those claims
seemed so blasphemous in the eyes oC
this generation, that they did not cease
their persecutions of him till h» life-
blood sealed his testimony. " Had Christ
only professed to be a Prophet," doubt lea*
the Jews said, " we could have borne with
him." If Joseph Smith had only pro-
fessed to be a good uninspired man, then
the world would have wandered after
him. But so it has been in all ages:
God's commissioned and appointed one*
have been rejected, persecuted, and
martyred for the truth's sake; apdV
strange to say, their murderers always
took away their lives because they were
so blasphemous that they were unfit to
live! It is true that Jesus said, "Believe
me for the work's sake,"— not because he
he had done the works among them that
he might convince them, but because,
having appealed to their reason and judg-
ment in vain, he could leave them who*
out excuse, by showing them that even
their grosser senses might have been
satisfied.

The claims of the Latter-day Work
have been sustained by miracles significant
and numerous in every country under
heaven where the Gospel has been pro-
claimed and received. The dumb have
been made to* speak,— the blind to see ; the
ears of the deaf have been unstopped, the
sick have been healed, and even the dead
have been restored to life by the power oT
God through the ministrations of his ser-
vants ; and the voices of those who have
experienced this power have been raised
in grateful testimony of it on every soil
where the everlasting Gospel has struck
root, verifying the promise of the great
Founder of Christianity, that " these signa
shall follow them that believe."

After the crucifixion of Jesus, tbe power
of God attended the ministrations of bis
servants, sustaining, comforting, and
cheering the hearts of those who, m their

Digitized by CjOOQIC

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

of heart, despised the shame
\ feared not the persecutions heaped
l them by blinded zealots, who, mad-
dened against the truth, satiated their
fierce spirits with the blood of the unof-
f and peace-loving " Christians," as
mps of this generation have
mocked, and persecuted to the
the successors in faith, doctrine,
and principle of those early sufferers and
ma r ty r s , even the " Mormons" who would
bare blessed them, and still are desirous
of Messing them with the knowledge and
power of the principles of eternal life.

Let as look at one or two of the
miracles wrought by the early Apostles,
and weigh their value as evidences in
fitfonr of Christianity to unbelievers.
The first miracle recorded in the " Acts"
is the restoring of a lame man to the use
of his limbs. But who were witnesses to
this restoration? The man who was
healed. The people saw him walking, and
anew he had been lame; but there is no
evidence to prove that any person wit-
nessed bis restoration to strength besides
. Peter, John, and himself ; and the amount
of credence placed in their testimony by
. the rulers ef the people is evidenced in
the fact of their being imprisoned the
- name day. The death of Ananias and
Sapphire occurred in the presence of be-
lievers only, and could easily have been
accounted for by natural causes, such as
an attack of paralysis or a sudden fit of
apoplexy. In fact, had it got noised abroad
that Peter was accessory to their death,
fee would most likely have been taken
and tried for murder. There is no doubt,
at any rate, that such would be the case
now. Pan! shook a viper off his hand,
not to convince the people, but through
* faith he realized the promise made to all
beDevers. To show how a simple cir-
may be magnified Into some-

thing of importance, I will quote the-
following incident : — Paul was preaching
at Troas ; and being somewhat lengthy hi
his discourse, a young man who was m
the congregation sank into sleep, anaV
while sleeping, fell down some distance*
and was taken up dead ; in other wards*
he was badly stunned. The peoplernn-
turally were considerably alarmed at taw-
circumstance ; but Paul, looking at mm* '
saw that he was not really dead, and teal
them not to trouble themselves, for hisKfe
was in him. After some time, the wxrth.
recovered from the effects of his fall, and
the people were much comforted that
nothing serious had happened. And this
little incident simply narrated by Lake*!*
magnified into a great miracle, events
restoring a person to life. The sick wens
healed by aprons and handkerchiefs taken
from the body of Paul: but would the
sceptic, the highminded, and the unbe-
liever receive that as evidence of the truest
of Christianity? or would they sneer at
the credulity of the Nazarenes and tajfcaf
the power of imagination, even as the
moderns try to sneer at the sick being;
healed, not only by the laying on of bands*
but by as simple a means as touching ta»
staff of Hebsr C. Kimball when preach-
ing in this very Lancashire where Laos,
now writing. <

Time and space would fail to notice al
the instances of miraculous power dhv
played in a former age which are recorded j
but what is written may suffice to show/
that the testimony of miracles was and fsv
a powerful evidence of the truth of tho
Gospel, both in former and latter f
to believers. But to those who <
to doubt, and are unwilling to i
the truth, Satan is ever ready
to furnish reasons for rejecting tain
or any other testimony which might hav
adduced.

(To be contimud.)

HISTOEY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

{Continued from, pag* 104.)

[March, 1844.
Also a letter to myself from Lyman
" Wight and others :—

•JMaek Biter Falls, Wisconsin Territory,
Feb. 10tb, 1844.
Te Joseph Smith, President of the Chursh

of Jesus Christ of Latter-day- Saints* as*
to the Twelve Apostles, greeting c**» <

Believing a concert of action in all thing*
in this Church to be highly important, vt
deem it necessary, under existing cirriisi
stances, to make you acquainted with <

Digitized by

Google

HHTORT Of JOSEPH 8UITH.

118

views, feelings, and temporal and spiritual
prospects, as they now exist.

We wrote yen last fall a full and com-
plete description of this country as high as
the falls on Black River, without exaggera-
tion, giving a slight description of the
.Pinery.

With the exception of several renegadoes
and false brethren, things passed smoothly
.on until some time in the month of January,
when we were visited by three different
tribes of Lamanites upon the most friendly
terms, receiving us as their counsellors,
Jboth temporal and spiritual.

The names of those tribes are Menomanees
Chippewa, and Winnebagoes. They informed
us that all the land above the falls belongs
to the Menomanee tribe, and that the agents
and the Governor, the general agent in
/ the north-weit of all the Indian affairs, had
agreed with them to remove all the Weber
men from Black River, Chippewa, and
Lemanware rivers, by their request; but
after a lengthy conversation with them,
they felt to treat us as their friends, and not
their enemies.

We dispatched two messengers — namely,
tfeorge Miller and Cyrus Daniels, to go
Immediately to Wisconsin, where they met
'with the agent, who gave them to 'under-
stand we could get the timber, which is
•already cut, at a reasonable rate; and for
any future prospect we will be under the
necessity of entering into a contract.

We calculate the present prospect for
lumber betwixt this and the last of July
next will be from eight to twelve hundred
thousand feet, whioh we deem will be all-
sufficient to finish the two houses, which
will accomplish the mission on which we
.started to this country.

* We, therefore, as a branch and a member
-of the body of the Church of Jesus Christ of
latter-day Saints chose the following com-
mittee — namely, Lyman Wight, George
JfiUer, Pierce Hawley, Phinehas R. Bird,
and John Young, to correspond with your
reverend council, giving you our views con-
cerning matters and things, and requesting
jour counsel on the same.

This committee views it inexpedient to
purchase standing timber on so rapid and
vmnavigable a stream for the purpose of
making lumber to gain wealth.

The Lamanites owning this land, not-
withstanding their great anxiety to receive
the Gospel and the Book of Mormon, have a
atrong desire, if counselled by us so to do,
to go south-west, where game is more
plenty,*! their only resource here for a living
as the pitiful annuities and proceeds from
their pine timber, which timber is the only
inducement to the Government to purchase
**mr lands.

This committee is therefore led to take a
brief view of the south and western part of
North America, together with the Plaridav
Texas, West India Islands, and the adjacent
islands to the Gulf of Mexieo, together with,
the Lamanites bordering on the United
Territories from Green Bay to the Mexsesm
Gulf, all crying with one voice, through the
medium of their chiefs, Give us an under-
standing of your doctrine and principles, for
we perceive that your ways are equal, and
your righteousness far exceeds the right-
eousness of all the missionaries that wa
have yet become acquainted with, — that your-
conduct with one another is like that of
ours, and that all your feast* and attendant
ceremonies are precisely like ears.

Tour servants, the committee, have viewed
the Colorado river, with all its beautiful
hills and valleys and fertile soil, with deep
regret, when viewing the countless thou-
sand! of inhabitants on either side thereof*
without the knowledge of God or the doe-
trine of the Church of Jesus Christ o£
Latter-day Saints, and say in their bssrta,
Would it be expedient to form a frm of
those true and full-blooded Eptesmrites,
who, from principle and the lore of the
truth, have borne the most extreme burdens,
fatigue, and hunger, to prosecute the mis-
sion, to procure lumber sufficient to build
the two houses, to open the door to all the
regions which we have named, which region*
have never yet had an opportunity to hear
the Gospel and to be made acquainted
with the plan of salvation ? or shall they
continue to suffer the fatigues of hunger*
wet, and cold, in a rigid, inclement ^fnstfj,
for the pitiful sum that it shall avail them*
after undergoing those hazardous perila ? or
shall they, like Timothy and Titan, with
Paul, hasard the perils of see. sad laud
through the Southern States sod West
India Islands, and all the LamanHe world*
go forth and proclaim to them the Gospel
of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, and •
teach them to build up Zion ^

Are there not thousands of the rids
planters who would embrace the Gospel, .
and, if they had a place to plant their slaves,
give all the proceeds of their yearly hsbouv
i£ rightly taught, for building up the sins;.
, dom, being directed by the President of tarn
whole Church to make the right spplicsr-
tion? We answer, Yes, we behave they
would.

Your servants, the committee, are of the
opinion that s concert and recisnp s caty of
action between the North sod the 8cmtk
would greatly advance the building sun of
the kingdom.

The committee is well informed of tine
Cherokee snd the Choctaw nations who fines
between the 8tste of Arkansas sod *>*

Digitized by CjOOg IC

BISTORT OT JOSEPH SMITH*

Colorado river of the. Texas, owning large
plantations and thousand! of slaves, and
that they are also very desirous to have an
interview with the Elders of this Church,
upon the principles of the Book of Mor-

This oommittee is of the opinion that thej
«an choose soldiers for this expedition who
are as andeviating in the principles of the
doctrine of Christ and the Book of Mormon
as the sun in his daily course, and as inde-
fatigable in their exertions in this* cause as
the earth is in its daily revolution.

This oommittee views it as a matter of
investigation, Whether would the Southener,
with his slaves and abundance of wealth, do
better to take them to some slave-holding
point, keep them in lively exercise according
to his former customs and habits, turning
over his yearly proceeds into the hands of
the Trustee-in- Trust for the whole Church,
or to abolish slavery and settle himself in a
> climate uncongenial to his nature and en-
tirely derogatory to his former occupations
in life?

After having procured the lumber for
those two bouses, the committee is of the
•opinion that the preaching the Gospel
and raising funds in the South would be a
Ut more speedy way of accomplishing the
♦■work than any other that could be intro-
duced at the present time.

We, your servants, therefore, will wait
patiently the remit of your council, and
entrant ourselves to the same with all oheer- '
Tulness, our only object being to advance
the cause and kingdom of God, stand ready
to take hold wherever your wise council may
consider it to be of the most advantage.

This committee view with deep regret
the many different teachings this Church
/has received concerning the distribution of
their property, such as raising funds for
the printing of tracts, evidences of the Book
of Mormon, and pamphlets of various de-
scriptions, which we consider has not ad-
vanced the cause in the least degree, but
has tended directly to sap the foundation of
building the houses.

We therefore believe that no person em-
bffaetng the doctrine of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints should give any
part or parcel of the property without a
direct counsel, written or oral, from the
Plrst Presidency of the Church.

Whereas the committee having appointed
George Miller and Lyman Wight to write
the views of the committee, each wrote
separate and apart, having laid the same
before the oommittee, the committee re-
solved that both productions be sent with-
out alterations.

We, the committee, conclude by sub-
. tSritung ourselves jour friends and welU

119

wishers in the Lord, praying a speedy
answer from your worthy council, or the
word of the Lord*

Lyman Wight,
Gkobob Millib,
Phinbhas R. Bibb,

PlBBOB HAWLET,

John Youiro,
Select Committee to write expressive ef
the views of the Branch of the Church
at Black River Falls.
Josbph Smith, Sen., P. C,
Bbiqham Young, P.T.,
William Riohabos, Clerk."

And went into council on the subject /
matter of those letters during the re-
mainder of the evening.

Monday, 11th. At home till 9; then
spent the day in council in the lodge
room over Henry Miller's house.

Present— Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith,
Brighsm Young, Heber C. Kimball, Willard
Richards, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt,
John Taylor, GeoVge A. Smith, William W.
Phelps, John M. Bernhiael, Lucien Wood-
worth, George Miller, Alexander Bedlam,
Peter Haws, Erestus Snow, Reynolds Ca~
hoon, Amos Fielding, Alphens Cutler, Levi
Richards, Newel K. Whitney, Lorenso D.
Whasson, and William Clayton, whom I
organized into a special council, to take
into consideration the subject matter con-
tained in the above letters, and also the
best policy for this people to adopt to
obtain their rights .from the nation and
insure protection for themselves and chil-
dren ; and to secure a resting place in the
mountains, or some uninhabited region,
where we can enjoy the liberty of conscience
guaranteed to us by the Constitution of our
country, rendered doubly sacred by the
precious blood of our fathers, and denied
to us by the present authorities, who have
smuggled themselves into power in the
States and nation.

Tuesday, 12tb. At home in the morn-
ing. At eleven, a.m., I told brother
Cole I wanted the room over the store for
more important purposes, and wished him
to remove the school to Henrv Miller's
house immediately ; which he did.

The brethren who were in Council
with me yesterday assembled there in
the afternoon and evening.

Gave the following recommend to
Elder Orson Pratt:-*

*• City of Nauvoo, HI., March 12, 1844.
To whom it may concern : —

We, the Mayor and Recorder of said cftyj
do certify that Orson Pratt, Eiq., tbe
bearer, a Councillor in the City Council o|

Digitized by

120 EDITORIAL.

said city, if sent as ah agetft by tb* autho-
rities of said city or corporation to transact
such business as he may deem expedient and
beneficial forvthe community which he repre-
sents ; and as such agent and gentleman of
principle and character, he by us is recom-
mended to the due consideration of all the
executive officers of the Government, both
bouses of Congress, and gentlemen gene-
rally of the United States.

s^A^ In witness whereof we have
/Corpo- ) hereunto set our hands and
3 ration > affixed the seal of said corpora-
{ Seal* ) tion at the time and place
aforesaid.

Joseph Smite, Mayor.
"Willard Richaeds, Recorder."

A dull cloudy day.

A meeting of the inhabitants of the
, Tenth Ward was held this evening at the
school- house on the hill, in Parley- street,
to take into consideration the propriety

of establishing a store on the principle of
co-operation or reciprocity. The sub*
ject was fully investigated, and the be-
nefits of such an institution clearly
pointed out.

The plan proposed for carrying out
the object of the meeting was by shares
of five dollars each.

The leading feature of the institution
was to give employment to our own
mechanics, by supplying the raw mate-
rial, and manufacturing all sorts of
domestics, and furnishing the necessaries
and comforts of life on the lowest pos-
sible terms.

A committee was appointed to draft a
plan for the government of said institute,
to be submitted for adop tion or amend-
ment at their next meeting ; after which,
an adjournment took place till next
Tuesday evening, at half-past six o'clock,
at the same place.

(To be continued,)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 1SG1.

Importance or the Sacrament. — There are various causes for the loss of the
Spirit and decrease of faith among the Saints — adultery, last, murmuring against
the Priesthood, neglect of prayer and other duties, &c, &c. ; hut there is, perhaps,
no single cause more frequently productive of these evil consequences than the par-
taking of the sacrament by the Saints while in possession of a wrong spirit and
feelings. To commit adultery, every one who has had any experience or understand-
ing of the work of God knows, will inevitably result, unless speedily and sincerel
repented of, in the apostacy of the adulterer. So also in the commission of other
gins, though the denial of the faith by the one thus sinning might not follow the
sinful act so quickly as in the other instance. But the partaking of the Lord's
Supper appears almost to be so unimportant in the estimation of some, (probably
through partaking of it often,) that they think it a matter of no consequence whatever,
whether they are at that time filled with love to God and their brethren, or whether
they are filled with enmity,— whether they eat and drink in remembrance of the
Lord Jesus, or whether his death and sufferings are never thought about by them.
The eating of a piece of bread, or the drinking of a little wine, or its substitute,
under ordinary circumstances, might not be expected to excite any particular
emotions in those thus partaking ; but it is nothing less than solemn mockery for
men and women, professed followers of the Lord Jesus, to assemble together and unite
in a prayer to have the bread and the contents of the cup blessed and sanctified to their
souls, and then eat and drink with feelings of enmity in their bosoms to some one or
more individuals of the same faith and hope with themselves, and in total forgetful-
ness of their Lord and his precepts. No individual, whether officer or member, .

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL

121

can pursue a course of tins kind and escape condemnation. Sueh was aba Paul's fidth
in ancient days; for he wrote to the Oorulthiatf Branch of the Church that, in
coaseotience of their partaking of the Lord's Supper unworthily, many were weak
•and sickly among them, and many had slept.

The Lord Jesos himself attaches so much importance to the sacrament, that he
has commanded his servants not to knowingly suffer any one to partake of his fleah
and hbod unworthily when they shall minister it. They are required to forbid eucb,
because they who eat his flesh and blood unworthily eat and drink damnation to
their souls.

This places the Elders under solemn obligations to tee that iniquity does not exist
among the Saints ; for iniquity of any kind would render whoever practised it un-
worthy of tins ordinance. If there are feelings of enmity m the bosom of one
against another — if there is evil speaking one of another, those harbouring such
feelings, those giving utterance to suoh sentiments, cannot partake of the Lord's
Supper without incurring his displeasure. Entertaining such a spirit and such feel-
ings causes them to be unworthy, and they have .peed of repentance. Those who eat
the flesh and drink the blood of the Lord should always remember him, and should
be filled with perfect love for him and for their brethren, and upon no other principle
can they expect to have his Spirit to be with them. We feel satisfied that there is a
feeling of apathy and carelessness upon this subject which should not exist among
the Saints. To show the nature of the obligation we take upon us on such occa-
sions, permit us to quote from the customary prayer. The Elder or Priest who is
called upon to administer the sacrament calls upon the Father according to the
pattern given by the Lord. After asking him to bless and sanctify what they
are about to partake of to the souls of all, that they may partake of it in remem-
brance of the body and blood of his Son, he says—" And witness unto thee, O God, the
Eternal Father, that they are willing to take upon them the name of thy Son, and
always remember him and keep his commandments which he has given them, that
they may always have his Spirit to be with them. Amen." Those who join in this
prayer, and partake of the bread and wine, or its substitute, actually renew their
covenant by so doing, before the Lord, to take upon them the name of Jesus, and to
keep his commandments. They witness unto the Father, by that act, that they are
willing to do those things. If they do not mean to do so, then they lie unto the
Lord. Jesus, in speaking to his Apostles among the Nephites, after they had par-
taken of the bread and wine, said — " Blessed are ye for this thing which ye have
done ; for this is fulfilling my commandments, and this doth witness unto the Father
that ye are willing to do that which I have commanded you."

The proper participation in this ordinance witnessed unto the Father their willing-
ness to keep his commandments equally as much, in its place, as the ordinance of
baptism, when it was necessary to be administered. Now, every one who has amy
belief in the Gospel would deem It a very improper and wicked proceeding for any
persons to go forth and be baptized or re-baptized, knowing that they had been
violating plain laws of heaven, and not repenting of such violations, but rather cherishing
them. No true believer in that ordinance would for one moment expect any good
results to follow such a baptism as that, however pure the man might be who would
administer it. On the contrary, they would expect the anger of the Lord to be
Jtindled against an individual who would act thus hypocritically. Yet this is no
worse than for Saints to partake of the sacrament with wrong feelings and thoughts
-in their hearts. Repentance of every wrong spirit, feeling, and action is as neoes-
aary upon one occasion as the other.

122 VIEWS OF "MORMON1SM" AMD THE "MORMONS."

To partake ef the sacrament often and in a proper spirit is a very great safe*
guard against apoatacy, because the Saints who will do thus will always remember
the Lord, and as a consequence, according to his promise, shall have his Spirit to be
with them. But to partake of it unworthily involves terrible consequences. No-
Elder can do his duty and permit persons whom he knows are not feeling and doing
right to partake of this ordinance.

We hope that the importance of the sacrament will be more and more appreciated
by the Saints ; for, where it is properly appreciated, there must be spirit and power.
No matter how small the Branch of Saints may be that realizes the necessity of par*
taking of the Lord's Supper with pure and holy desires, remembering the Lord, they
will be fall of life and faith : they must grow. And we can assure them that, whether
it be an individual or a Branch, whether an Elder or a member, whether strong tr
weak, all who partake of the flesh and blood of the Lord with acrimonious and on*
lovable feelings in their hearts most lose the Spirit and dwindle into nnbelief.

Abstract of News from the Conferences . — Presidents Lyman and Rich,
in a communication from Bristol, dated Feb. 7, write that, since leaving Liverpool
for their present tour, they have held 28 meetings, and purposed holding a Confer*
ence on the following Sunday (13th) at Bristol ; after which Elder Lyman intended to
proceed to London, and Elder Rich to Cheltenham.

Elder F. M. Lyman, in a letter of the same date from London, after giving a
succinct report of a Priesthood meeting held there on the 6th, in which Elders Cook,
Brown, and Staines took a prominent part, says — " All is peace and quiet now in
this part, and the Saints are generally in good spirits, and striving to serve the Lord
to the best of their ability. We have a few strangers to listen on Sunday evenings.
Some of them come out of curiosity to listen to the strange doctrine of 'Moiv
monism/ and there are others that are returning to the fold, that have been
separated from the flock, perchance by straying out of the fold and sound of tjje voice
of the true shepherd. There are some that have almost forgotten the sound, and
there are others that recognize it immediately, and hasten to meet with joy the
welcome sound of ' Come and be blessed. 9 99

VIEWS OF i'MOttMONISM

BT ELDEB E.

VIEW TV. — IBRESISTIBLENESS OF JOSEPH
AND HIS MISSION.

The chosen man the mighty God ordains:

He comet !— the government divine he bears,
And soon the cry shall be, " Jehovah reigns !"

And with his Saints the endless empire shares.
Behold he comes! and comes to all mankind :

Behold be comes ! Let every nation hear i
For God will prove It, and the world will find

Bia coming brings JHc$sioh y $ advent near.

In onr last view of " Mormonism" and
the " Mormons," we looked at the enemy's
description of Joseph as the American
Mahomet, considered the parallel drawn

" AND THE " MORMONS."

If. TULLIDOB.

by them Between w Mormonism w ami
Mahometanism, and promised to farther
state the case as illustrative of the power
and commanding character of Joseph as>
the mightiest of Prophets.

Joseph comes forth proclaiming a new
prophetio era and a new Christian dis-
pensation. The man appears whom God
had foreordained to bring in the times of
the restitution of all things, and to be the
key of the great dispensation spoken of in
Scripture as the "dispensation of the-
fulness of times," in which "all thing**

Digitized by Google

YIBWS OF "MOBMONISH" AMD THE " MOMCONS." 12£

belonging to the divine institutions,
covenants, pre- ordinations, and eternal
arrangements shall be restored and em-
bodied and perpetuated in a divine
universal empire that shall stand for ever.
He comes to bnild up the kingdom of
God, towards which the great prophetic
ones of old so fondly looked, and of which
' they so fondly spoke in those massive
and lofty strains of inspiration. He comes
to begm that great and marvellous
work of the last days which has not
only been the theme of all God's holy
Prophets from the beginning of the world,
but which has been the hope of the Saints
in all generations. He comes to prepare
the way for the second advent of Messiah ;
and his mission and work in their unfold-
intra will gather together the whole house
oflsrael, and not only restore to Jacob
Ins nationality, but give to him the
dominant empire of the world. More-
over, the work and mission which has
Jbeen given to him, as the representative
of the God of Israel, will in its unfoldings
not only restore all the tribes of Jacob,
and give to them the presiding nationality,
according to the covenant of Jehovah to
Moses, that he would make Israel the
bead of the nations, but it will also bring
salvation to the Gentiles and healing to
all the world, according to the covenant
of God to Abraham— "In thy seed shall
all the nations of the earth be blessed."
He comes that all the Prophets might be
fulfilled, the dispensation of the fulness
of tunes opened, and the " restitution of
all things'* consummated. He comes that
the Gospel of a new and universal
Christian dispensation might be preached
unto all the world as a witness of the
setting up of the kingdom of heaven, and
as the sign and preparation for the second
advent of Christ. He comes specially
that Jacob might be redeemed, the
covenants made with the fathers fulfilled
and embodied in the "new covenant,''
"which Jehovah promised to make 'with
the house of Israel in the last days. He
comes that all Israel might be saved,
comforting words spoken to Jerusalem,
and all the tribes of Jacob revealed and
gathered to their " promised" lands.

He comes and brings forth from its
hiding-place the Book of Mormon, which
is the ancient history of the « new world,"
and contains many important facts con-
cerning not only the past, but also the
present and future of that continent. In

what is now called the " new world," the
race of man originated and the garden of
Bden flourished. The Book of Mormon
makes known the facts that it has been a
11 promised land " from the creation, that
it was ultimately given to a branch of
Joseph, who was sold into Egypt, and
destined to be for his seed an everlasting
inheritance, and a gathering-place in the-
last days for God's people from every
land, and the place where the mighty
Latter-day Kingdom should be established
and Zion built up.

Joseph the Prophet, then, comes to
give form and meaning, and a fulfilment
and consummation to all this. He comes,
that upon the "new world" the divine
empire of the new order of things might
receive birth and grow into maturity*
He comes, that subjects of the Latter-day
Kingdom of God might be made, by the
preaching of the Gospel to every nation,,
and that they might also be gathered
together from all nations to form the
chief branch of the Israel of the last days.
He comes also to bring in the times of the
gathering of the ten tribes, whom God
shall soon reveal from their hiding-
places in the North, and that the Jews
might return from their long and terrible
dispersion, to again become a nation in the
lands of their fathers, and rebuild their
beloved Jerusalem. In short, although
his mission brings in the days of Goers
dreadful controversy with all nations,
Joseph is raised up that there might be
also brought in that " good time coming,'*
for which mankind and the earth were
created, and which has not only been the
theme of all God's holy Prophets, but
which has also been the hope of the
great and good and gifted of all ages,
both of Israel and the Gentiles. He
is as a bold, rugged stone hewed out
by the hand of God; but still he is
chosen to be the chief stone of that
divine universal empire destined to
spring up in the last days, over which
Christ shall, by. and- by, reign a thousand
years.

He comes! and the world at first treat-
him as beneath notice, and his mission as
one which, at most, only a few fanatics
could receive ; and it was expected and
predicted that his work and the Church
of Latter-day Saints would die almost
as soon as born. But such was not
the case. His- mission spread, his work
lived and prevailed; and the Church

Digitized by VjOOQIC

124 V1MWB OF "VO&MOimx" AND THE "MORMONS."

which he established flourished and in-
creased, and soon the Saints became
known as a strange people, and "Mor-
monism " a marvel which lived and grew
and spread abroad on every hand, and
is now gathering together the elements to
form a powerful community.

He comes! and the contempt and
indifference first manifested towards him
and his mission and his disciples soon
Ifind expression in other and different
forms. Devils and men are no longer
indifferent ; and although they professed
contempt towards him and his people,
they rage and howl, and spit out such
names as false prophet, fanatics, money-
digger, low cunning knaves, and dupes,
and a variety of similar epithets and vile
descriptive expressions.

But, in spite of all this,- Joseph comes!
He comes to the people of this generation !
Every day his coming grows broader and
bigger, and assumes the character of the
wonder of the age. On the antagonistic
unbelieving side, Joseph and his mission
appear as the astonishment, the by- word,
the bugbear, and terror of all who
hear thereof. On the other side, the
Latter-day Prophet and his mission
appear as the salvation and hope of the
world, foreshadowing the "good time
coming," and giving all heaven to work out
the millennial period of peace and good*
will to man, and to fulfil the Divine
purposes and the fond visions of in-
spiration.

He comes! and from the first moment
that God sent him he has every day been
coming, until from six individuals, who
first recognize that coming to prepare the
greater coming of Christ, all America and
England and many nations hear of the
Prophet Joseph Smith ; and soon all the
world will hear of him and of that won-
derful mission and work which his
coming has begun, book upon him and
his mission and his disciples as they may,
all the world must bear of them and that
mighty work of religious empire-founding
which Joseph and the first Elders of the
Church of Latter-day Saints commenced,
and which Brigham, his successor, with
the present Apostles, Elders, and com-
munity of Saints, is carrying onward.

Joseph, the Prophet of the Latter-day
Kingdom of God, comes, then; and his
coming is to all the world and his mission
to the ends of the earth. - He begins his
work^he advances onward with nis peo-

ple; and scarcely has he come, and harder
has his mighty work begun, or "Vor-
monism " reached more than its first
stages, when signs are made by tije
enemy, witnessing to the greatness of tys
mission. In spite of all the low epithets
and villanous slanders — in spite of Up
howlings of men and devils — in spite of
the rage and violence of mobs, and Up
drivings from State to State of the Pro-
phet and his disciples,— in spite of this,
and much more than we can attempt to
describe of the irresistibleness of Joseph
and his mission, important acknowledg-
ments are wrung from the Gentiles. He is
to them an impostor, money- digger, &c*
— in fact, everything that the wieked or
the sceptic were disposed to view him:
still, even the bitterest of his priestly
declaimers, as well as more friendly scep-
tics, and men who rank among the works's
social philosophers, lift him up to the
public gaze as the great wonder of tip
nineteenth century.

The fact is, those who have at all
viewed the subject of "Mormonism" and
the " Mormons," and whose serious at-
tention has been drawn even to a super-
ficial and passing contemplation of the
Prophet of the nineteenth century, havs
seen in him and his mission the com-
manding empire- founding character and

fenius. They did not, nor do they on-
erstand him or his mission; nor did they
rightly view him or paint his proper like*
ness. But they had to feel his wekjbt;
and, in spite of themselves, they had p»
acknowledge that weight; and, under its
irresistible force, they cry out — "The
American Mahomet of the nineteenth
century !" They name him in hate and
rage, and in their hate and rage they
design to give him the worst of names.
But, and perhaps half unconsciously and
without ' knowing it, they bear strong,
though indirect testimony of the irresis-
tible forcef illness of Joseph's prophetic
character and the immensity of $is
mission.

This Gentile acknowledgement of
Joseph, the Prophet of the Latter-day
Kingdom, is similar to the acknowledg-
ment made by the devils of the Divine
claims and power of .Jesus, and like the
forced admission of his miracle- working
power wrung from the Jews when they
said, " He casteth out devils by Beelzebok
the prince of devils."

Nor have the world yet djrovered tyc

Digitized by Google

▼ISWS OF "MORlKimSM" AKD TBS "MORMONS," 125r

they have painted Joseph too great, or
given a too important character of his
mission and the work which grew there-
from, and which is now being carried on-
ward by his chief representative and
Apo*tie— his great successor, Brigham
Young. The Gentiles, however, will by-
anoVby arrive at a better understanding
of both these chief empire-founders of
Latter-day Israel, and draw a Ekeness of
these men from a more divine class of
originals than the Mahomets of the
world. Bat rather than finding that they
have painted them from originals of too
massive a character, and made "Mor-
monism too important by comparing it to
Ifahometanism, they are constantly dis-
covering that the work of the Latter-
day Saints, or, as we have been viewing
them, the latter-day Empire-founders,
is far more stupendous and Irresistible
than they had imagined. They will also
discover that it has a broader and far
more certain and lasting destiny than
they have imagined ; and it will, by- and-
ny, be universally acknowledged that
Joseph is as remarkable a man as ever
trod the face of the earth, while the
Saints will continue to view him as
the greatest Prophet of the Israelitish
type.

In fact, the future mighty empire of
"Monnondoxn" has already often been
foreshadowed in Gentile prophecies, pre-
sentiments, and fears ; and day after day
a feeling is fast coming over the people
'that the work which has grown out of
the mission of Joseph, and now carried
onward under the headship of Brighton,
-will soon form the most important part of
the awfully stupendous drama of the last
days. Aye, it was this very presentiment
of the future empire of the Saints which
had from the first been growing up in the
minds of the people of America, that
umd them to the desperate, murderous,
and unlawful attempts to root up the
work of God, destroy the mission of
'Joseph, murder him and some of his chief
followers, blot out the destiny of "Mor-
monism/* and exterminate the 8aints.
It Ss because there has, day after day, and

year after year, grown up and fast spread
in America a realization, and with it a
fear of the empire-founding character of
" Mormonism" and the " Mormons," that
this Church has such heartrending pages
in its history. It is because of the growth
of this presentiment and fear that a Joseph,
a Hyrum, a Parley, a David Patten, and
many others of the chief Elders and
Saints have been directly or indirectly
martyred. From the same cause, the
community of Saints have been driven
from State to State in America, until
they reached the Rocky Mountains, far
beyond "civilization," and until finally the
United States arose, in the awful majesty
of a mighty nation about to take the
fearful responsibility of entering the
bloody battlefield, and, in spite of the fact
that Utah was one of their own Terri-
tories, sent their marshalled forces to
make a war of extermination upon the
community of Saints. Nor has this
growing, spreading presentiment of the
future empire of " Mormondom" been
less terrible to its enemies because they
have not clearly seen its end or destiny;
nor have they gathered much comfort,
nor their presentiment of some great un-
known future and dominant destiny for
the Saints been weakened by the failures
of mobs and States, and finally the failure
of the United States to stop the growing
work of the empire-founding community
of Saints.

Moreover, the mission of Joseph bss
not, since his and his brother Hymm's
martyrdom, lost any of its irresistiblenesv
but has increased immensely its forcefut-
ness; nor have the "Mormons" lost their
empire-founding character. The reverse
Is the case.

Joseph, although behind the van* and
invisible, still continues the great mission
which God committed to him, while on
this side of the vail the visible Brigham
and the other Apostles and -Elders are
mightily co-operating with him. Thus
is God's great Latter-day Prophet still
marching onward with his followers and
empire-founding work.

Tn Disco vest or tbx Cibculatiov or tub Blood Forestalled.— The Gazette
Sebdtnmadaire of the 23rd instant qaotes Italian verses extracted from a work of one

. Ceeco tfAieoli, who Was bom in 1257, bat whose poem, entitled " Acerbo," was printed
only In 1476, which verses might be so construed as to contain a clear statement of the

"ctrcatation of the blood as discovered by Harvey. Cecco was burned as a heretic in 1347.

Digitized by

126

C0RR18P0NDIHCB.

COREESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.

1 Genoa, Nebraska Territory,

January 4, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — According to
promise, I take up my pen to address a
few lines to you. We have had con-
siderable snow ever since you left this
place; in fact, there has been a storm
every few days. The severity of the
weather has been such, that the Pawnee
Indians have not been able to come in
from their winter hunt. The squaws
and papooses have their feet so badly
frozen, that they cannot travel. Bad
indeed must be their condition, for they
have been notified of the payment of their
annuities by their agent, but have not
come in to receive them.

There is a great deal of excitement at
Kearney city just now. It appears that
one of the settlers shot two youths, sons
of the head chief of the Sioux. The
statements of the cause for shooting is so
conflicting, that I forbear to state them.
However, the chief, in his remarks made
at a council held in Fort Kearney upon
the subject, insisted that the offender be
given up, and 3,000 dollars be paid before
grass comes, or he will make war upon
the whites, and have revenge. Time will
tell. It is true the Sioux have been very
troublesome the past season; but how far
the present case of shooting can be
justified, is extremely doubtful in my
<xnind. As far as I can obtain the facts,
it is more wanton than necessitous.

The hostile position of the Slave States,
together with the actual secession of
South Carolina, is paralysing trade and
snaking employment hard to obtain, pro-
ducing much want amongst the poor';
nevertheless, whilst the Saints see in
these things the rapid strides of fulfilling
prophecy, and the realization of Joseph's
mission, the wicked and purse-proud and
blood-stained oppressors significantly
shrug the shoulders and wag the head,
saying, It will soon pass— we are wise.
No, verily, no: they are wise in their own
conceits, and their destruction is sure.
But I am wearying your patience, and
must conclude by saving, however, that
the lecture delivered by President Orson
Pratt, and the remarks made by yourself

and others in the Court-house in Omaha,
city, has aroused a deep feeling of inquiry
in the minds of men* in high places.
With kind regards to yourself, sister Can-
non, and all the Saints,

I am truly yours,

Henry J. Hudsoit.

SCOTLAND.

Edinburgh, Jan. 27, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Sir,— Yesterday I met with
several Branches of the Edinburgh
Conference at a place called Bathgate,
about sixteen miles from here. My object
in meeting with the Saints is to instruct
them in their duties and cement the
Priesthood and the people in the bonds
of love and brotherly affection. It has
been a common thing for brethren in the
Priesthood to sit down together and
partake of the sacrament with bitterness
in their hearts one towards the other;
after whicb, or at the same time, calling
upon the people to forgive one another.
This is one great cause of the lukewarm-
ness that exists among the Saints in
Scotland. My desire is to puriry my
own heart, and get my brethren to for-

five one another; then our Father in
eaven will forgive us and pour out his
Holy Spirit upon us in greater abun-
dance than we have ever enjoyed it
before* The Saints are all feeling well,
and manifest a willingness to do right.
This is all that is in the way of a great
and a good work being done in Scotland.
I pray God, my Heavenly Father, to
bless me to this end.

Brother Baxter has gone to the Glasgow
Conference.

Pray that I may ever have the Spirit
of God to rest mightily upon me, that
my brethren, seeing my good works, may
be led to serve God. As ever your
brother in the covenant of Priesthood,
David M. Stuabt.

wales.

Carmarthen, February 9* 1S61.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,-* I arrived here last
evening in company with brother David

Digitized by

Google

Davies, the President of the Llanelly
'Conference. Brother Isaac Jones, a
faithful Elder in the Carmarthen Branch,
lias succeeded in getting the Editor of the
Carmarthen Weekly Reporter to publish
the revelation given to Joseph Smith
concerning the rebellion of South Ca-
rolina, &c There is considerable ex-
citement already in this town. I have
just returned from the Editor of the above
paper, who appeared very friendly, and
remarked that the revelation was very
striking. I thanked him kindly for pub-
fishing it. The brethren and myself have
fought several of the Weekly Reporter,
which we intend to send to different in-
dividuals.

A very respectable merchant came to
me last night, after reading the revelation
in the Weekly Reporter, and seemed to
be very much interested concerning it.
He baa invited me to call and see him
to-day.

SUMMARY. 137

Some say that the w Mormons 99 have
made the revelation, and that it is nothing
but a humbug just got up. One gentle-
man bought the "Pearl of Great Price"
of us last evening, which was in
print in the Welsh Language nine years
ago. It is too soon te know the feelings
of the people yet, as the Reporter was only
out of press last evening.

The Saints feel well in the Conference*
that I have visited. They are poor in
pocket, but rich in faith. Trade in this
country is very dull: wages low.. We
look for better times to come.

My prayer is that the Lord may bless
you with a great portion of his Holy
Spirit, and prosper you in all your la-
bours. My kind love to yourself and
sister Cannon, and the brethren in the
Office.

I remain your brother in the Gospel of
Christ,

Thomas Jebemt.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gotbal. — Popular disturbances have again taken place in Naples, and the printing
presses of the Royalist newspapers, broken. Reactionary movements have broken out at
Beggio. A popular movement has also been suppressed at San Marino, where reactionary
toads are stQl organising. The city of Flume, with the surrounding district, has been
declared in a state of seige. An official dispatch states that Achiarone, one of the chiefs
of the reactionary bands in the Abruzzi, had surrendered. Fighting continues to take
place, and a spirit ef revenge is displayed on both sides. Villages are set on fire, and
gardinian officers cut to pieces. Sardinia has claimed the restoration of the soldiers
snade prisoners by the Papal Zouaves, and has arrested the Bishop of Sabini as hostage,
^he Paris papers publish a telegram from Constantinople, dated Feb. 2, announcing that
the European Commission at Beyrout had proposed to establish in 8yria one sole Govern-
anent for the Christian inhabitants, under the protection of the European Powers.
According to the same telegram, the Porte had proposed the establishment of two
Crorernments, with general councils, oomposed of Christian and Mussulman members.

Amsbicah. — Another star has fallen. The Louisiana State Convention has passed the
JbUowing secession ordinance M We, the people of the State of Louisiana, in convention
assembled, do declare and ordain, and it is hereby declared and ordained, that the ordi-
nance passed by this State on the 22nd of November, 1807, whereby the constitution of
the Vnited States of America, and the amendments of said constitution were adopted, and
all the laws and ordinances by which Louisiana became a member of the Federal Union,
J b% and the same are hereby repealed and abrogated ; and the union now subsisting
between Louisiana and the other States, under the name of the United States of America,
is hereby dissolved. We further declare and ordain that the State of Louisiana hereby
resumes the rights and powers heretofore delegated to the Government of the United
States of America, and its citizens absolved from allegiance to the said Government, and
ahe is in full possession of all the rights and sovereignty that appertain to a free and inde-
pendent State." A gold pen was given each member with which tor sign the ordinance of
accession.

A snuawD observer was asked, on visiting London, to name what appeared to him most
remarkable in the great metropolis. He replied—** There is nothing so astonishing to
mjna the wealth it displays, except its poverty."

Digitized by

VARIETIES* — rPOETRY. 1 — INQUIRY,

VARIETIES.

Rat-catchers exercise their fascinations ever rats by rubbing their hands orer with'
tnx Tomica, or oil of rhodium, while pursuing their calling* !

Nature is hnmortal and without restriction in its compass. Whatever spot we stand
on serves as the centre of immensity ; whatever hoar we lire in is the dividing-point of
tbe eternities.

Cube fob In-obowuu* Nails. — It is said that cauterisation by Jiot tails w is an isa- >
aaodJate ourta for in-growing nails. A medical writer says— "The patient on whom I
first tried this was a young lady, who had been unable to put on a shoe for several months*
and decidedly the worst case I have ever seen. The disease had been of long standing.
The edge of the nail was very deeply undermined ; the granulation formed a high ridge,
partially covered with skin, and pus constantly oozed from the root of the nail. The whole
toe was swollen, and extremely tender aod painful. My mode of proceeding was this :
i put a small piece of tsllow in a spoon, and heated it over a lamp until it became very
hot, and dropped two or three drops between the nail and. granulations. The effect was
almost magical. Pain and tenderness were at once relieved, and in a few days the granuw
fattens were all gone, the diseased parts dry and destitute of feeling, and the edge of the
Bail exposed so as to admit of being pared away without any inconvenience. The cnrer
was complete, and the trouble never returned. I have tried .this plan repeatedly since*
With the most satisfactory results. The operation causes but little, if any paip, if the
tallow is properly heated. A repetition might in some cases be , necessary* although I
never have met with a case that did not yield to one application."

POETRY,

OLD AND NEW FRIENDS.

The scenes of iile are changing.

As clouds that drift away;
And hearts are erer ranging.

Like birds from bough to spray :
These changes bring us new friends

With breathings warm and bold ;
Bui while the new aie trua friends*

We'll not furgec the old.

1 The friends that changes send us
With changes oft are gone,
As shadows that attend us

When shines the glorious sun :
Oh ! give me those with true hearts

In weather warm or cold j
And though we cling to new hearts,
. We'll not forget the old.
Birmingham.

'Tis well through life's revealing

To gather friendly hearts.
And cherish every feeling
.. Thai happiness imparts :
Butfew among the many

Will keep a friendly hold ;
Then, while wc cling to any.

We'll not forget the old. »

Those roices seem so pleasant

That cheered us king ago ; ,
Their counsels at the present

They lovingly bestow:
Oh ! those are tried and true friends,

Whose hearts will ne'er grow col&j
Then, while we lore our new friends*

Well not forget the old,

\Y. G. Mills.

Lyquiry.— Information is wanted by Isaac Jefferies, of Bristol, concerning his sen William, who left
for Utah five years ago, and has not been heard of since Jan. 1868. Any person who maybe acquainted
with she whereabouts or late of the said William Jefferies wiH please communicate the same to thia C ~~ '
JDueret Neivs and Mountaineer, please copy.)

CONTENTS.

Christianity and •« llormonlsm" M . M 113 Hud ton. — Scotland : Letter from Elder

.History of Joseph Smith ..... 117 Stuart.— Wales : Letter from Elder Jeremy 11*

Editorial.— Importance of the Sacrament.— Summary of News and Passing Events... li7

Abstract of News from the Conferences 128 Varieties M WS

Views of Mormonlsm" and the '* Mormons" 122 Poetry.— Old and New Friends .„ 118

Correspondence.— America : Letter from Elder Inquiry M .^.^.^.^....^ 12*

LIVEKPOOL:

KP1TSD AN» PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q» CAHHON, A^J&MKQTOX.

LONDON: >

' TOTSAIK AT Tnx LATTEa -DAT FA I NTS* B OOX OETOT, 80, FLOaSKCX STREET, CROSS STREET, ISLUCOTOV,

AJCO ALL SOOKSttLLSRS*

FRIXTK© ny JAMES AN*I> NKFIUW, 51, SOffTH JOHJJ STREET, LIVERPOOL*

Digitized by Google

THE IATTER-DAT SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

«J noise $hatt come even to the end* of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controvert^ with the noting:
ke *rW plead with alt /teth ; he will give them that are wicked to the eword, eaith the Lord"—

aTb. 9, Yd. Xftn.

Saturday, If arch 2, 1861.

Price One Penny.

"W&Y DO TEE SAINTS GATHER?"

We doubt that, during the first half of
the present jeer, tb* above question will
be asked nmny tines by those who are in

> rejative to the great purposes
this the dispensation of the

God in

flamessof times, Thetefort, attd because
f . desire to, impart inrbrmntioa to the
sjsjiufomdt honest trutb»eeeker, I will
pteespt a Saw out of the numerous rea-
son* which Latter-^ Saints are Me-
naced to assign for their peculiar oooauot
cd gatheri n g together In the present
eaje.

Wby? BeoswOod commands them
to dp so. He,by virtoe of his baag their
Create, their Bustainer, their KaflsVwnojy

stteV stvesMBBSt *i*hn to their «i«Hafr
obe&enoe. In view of this, his dutiful
tiwld«tn •^•^* > it their ifanerative dnt?
> to that piece or to these places he
^^^^^ to gethoTi ,t0jj' even were be
to aire thenv-one reason why he
Ttetoo^so* Uenoe it is that
is to their mountain homo-

poor to tEe coming of neevenV Kiig to

reign on the earth a thousand years, of
the cities of Zion and Jerusalem, and the
gathering together of peoples trem every
nation under the bread eanppy of heaven
to do so. This must begone; for, sahh
the Lord, « Heaven and earth shaft pats
away, but my word shall not pass mway"
tmubasaeoompBsbsd Snat for which it
was spoken* Therefore th e y
where God can use them Hot i
this week. And even the wicked
gather together, though perhajn m igno-
rance, to aid in the work of th^Greac

WhyS Because God has decreed warn
frnunes, pestUenos^ Jiglitinu
earthquakes, and many: other dire ca«
jbsunsea upon the wisked natisns of cor-
ruft modern Babylon, and palled upon
his people with a loud . voice, enymg^
" Come cut of her. my people, that ye be
not partakers of her sma> and than ye
reoeive not of bet plagues*" To escape
tbejrfgmenteof an efiWled God, which
the w icked must suffer, unless they
miim%mi wfej» the m^wmM ha*»

be obedient to
God, they "flee from the
wrath) to eome." .

Why* Beonac* their virtuous r daugh-
ters are seldom safe when from borne ia

te be thesharemesYmoro or
would not gather i and* so hs
she voice of God, they "Ik

Digitized by

Google

130

"WHY DO THE SAINTS GATHER?

the Christian (?) towns and cities ofi
Europe, on account of the many corrupt
beings in the shape of men, but unworthy
of the name, who are daily and nightly
plotting, scheming, laminar traps, em-
ploying, with the gold with which they
ouhrht to bless the poor and do the
will of God generally, procurers and
procuresses, and almost every other mean
thinf to aid them in carrying out their
unhallowed desires, and prowling about
the streets, visiting every convenient
brothel, and seducing every fair daughter
of Adam they can possibly get within
their unholy grasp. They want to pre-
serve their daughters in purity before
God; hence they take them from the
hell- traps and dens of infamy which
abound so plenteously in Bible-reading,
Bible- believing (?), Bible-teaching (?), and
professedly God-fearing Christendom, to
blot it, to blight it, and to curse it with
the withering curse of the God of
heaven.

Why ? Because their youthful, un.
wary, but virtuous sons are unsafe, unless
immediately under the paternal er ma-
ternal cjre. Hamlets, villages, towns,
and cities contain their standing, living,
and multiplying evidences of man's great
degeneracy — numerous public and private
prostituted daughters of Eve, who are
ever on the alert to entrap and seduce
inexperienced youths of the opposite sex.
Therefore, as rast as opportunities offer,
they flee from where such walking
machines of seduction can be found,
taking with them their sons — the in-
struments for the creation of the morals
of a rising generation — the fathers and
rulers of many generations! and placing
them in a much more healthy, heavenly,
moral atmosphere, where they can learn
the wiQ of God, and be the honoured
producers of a race which will be a
- miUiea-frld more worthy of existence and
4jf the propagation of their species than
the present generation is.

Why? Because they wish their chil-
«dren to be indoctrinated in truth. Among
f the nations of the earth, numbers of
different gods are worshipped, and many
conflicting opinions are entertained rela-
tive to the true plan of salvation. This
worship and these opinions are taught
40 children as soon as they are capable
of receiving them. Now, for individuals
to understand, in part, the result of this
•teaching of moorrect doctrines; thev have

only to launch forth into the world and
teach true doctrines concerning the plan
of salvation and its Author, and they will
soon obtain ample evidence to prove the
result of the former to be one of the
greatest curses which the "father of
lies" has been permitted to bring upon
the human family. Therefore, and be-
cause the truth, un Bullied and free as it
emanates from its eternal Fountain, is
taught by God's inspired servants in
w Utah, fyi away," they hasten there to
learn it themselves and to have the
"young idea" instructed aright

Why? Because God's purposes in
relation to this earth and its inhabitants
cannot be accomplished without it. Can
the Babel curse be removed,, and a
pure, universal language be restored?
Can the Jews be restored to their former
place, polity, and favour with God ? Can
the other portions of Jacob's vast house-
hold enjov the fulfilment of God's pro-
mises to their father? Can Jerusalem be
rebuilt, old men walk therein leaning
upon their staffs, children play in
its streets, prophets prophesy within tt»
the armies of the earth surround it
while yet without walls, half of it
go into captivity, and the Son of God
come and stand upon the Mount of
Olives, dividing that mount, and de-
livering u his own" from their enemies?
Can the Zion of the last days be built up
and become the joy of the whole earth?
Can " the knowledge of the Lord cover
the earth," so that " none need teach Ins
neighbour, for all shall know the Lord
from the least to the greatest"? Can
man again be found in Eden's lovely
garden, walking and talking witlr his.
Maker without a vail between ? Can
these, and manv other things which must
take place, be brought about wtihdnt it
gathering f Common sense, reason,' and
revelation unite in answering with a loud,
emotatic, truthful No! Hence they

Why ? Because they want the know-
ledge of God. " But cannot thef get
that in their native lands?" They can in
part, but not in a sufficient degree to
satisfy the cravings of the * spark of
Deity" within them. In days rone by»
when God has had as organized and
righteous people on the earth, he has
selected and appointed^ a place or places
at which or in which he would instruct
them— Mount $inai. the tabernacle in

or "wv/i -irxrr\ r.- — 1 ~~ *

Digitized by

' " WHY DO THE 8AINT8 GATHER !"

iar

ahe wilderness, and Solomon's beantifal
temple, for examples. God has his
Church or people organized on the earth
in this age ; and he has had his Kirtland
TempH, his Nauvoo Temple, and his
places in the wilderness at or in whjch he
has imparted much 'saving knowledge;
and he has now his " tabernacle in the
-wilderness," in which he is giving unto his
obedient children the keys and powers of
heaven. Another temple is now being
erected on the American continent, and
many others will be built, which will far
surpass the costliness and splendour of
Solomon's magnificent building, in which
the Lord, will instruct his sons and
daughters in the precepts, practices, laws,
and order of the celestial worlds, to the
end that his will may be done on earth as
it is done in heaven. Seeing that Latter-
day Saints want life eternal, they gather
to where they can obtain the knowledge
of God and Jesus Christ whom he hath
sent, whom to know i$ life eternal.

"But," says the objecting critic, "it
appears to me that you make the attain-
ment of the knowledge of God dependent
on gathering to your Zion in the flesh.
What, then, is to become of many of
your own good members who die before
they go to Zion, and who are thus
destitute of the knowledge of God and
his Son Jesus Christ ? Will they obtain
eternal life }" Although it is stated that
the Saints gather to obtain the knowledge
of God, it is not stated, neither is it im-
plied, that they never can gain that know-
ledge after they pass from mortality,
should that take place before they gather
to Zion. But, without discussing the
matter further, I will give the objector
some of the words of the great Apostle of
the Gentiles ; and perhaps, after properly
reflecting upon them, guided by the light
of heaven, he will be satisfied that those
. who die in Christ, ungathered, will have
ample opportunity to be gathered after-
wards, and taught what they did not
learn in die flesh. " Having made known
unto qb the mystery of his (God's) will,
according to his good pleasure which he
hath purposed in himself, that in the dis-
pensation of the fulness of times he might
. gather together in one all things in Christ,
Both which are in heaven and which are
on earth." (£ph. i. 9, 10.)

To obey the voice of God, to fulfil his
word, to escape his " vials of wrath," to
pr eserve in purity their sons and daugh-

ters, to get them taught the truth, to*
accomplish the purposes of the Lord, and
to gain, as a reward for their "deeds
done in the body," eternal lives in the
presence of their Heavenly Father, are
among the many reasons why Latter-day
Saints leave their native lands for the
Divinely- appointed gathering-place on the
American continent.

And now, in conclusion, seeing that I
am numbered with the Saints, and have
the happy privilege of gathering with
them to our God-blessed mountain home,
I will bear my humble testimony to the
inhabitants of my native land — to as many
of them and of my native earth as tins
little luminary may reach; and I pray
that it may exist and travel and testify
as long as* there is a child of Adam on
this earth ignorant of the glorious latter-
day message of salvation. I know that,
in this, the nineteenth century, the Great
Eternal, his Son Jesus, and holy angels
have visited this earth. They have spoken
to man ; they have given him the true
Gospel and the legitimate authority of
heaven ; and they have empowered him
to establish and roll on the great Latter-day
Kingdom, which will become universale
They raised up and empowered the
youthful Prophet, Joseph Smith ; and I
Jcnow that he was and is a mighty Prophet
of God. I know that Brigham Young ia
God's Prophet and mouthpiece to this
generation. He communes with God, and.
angels are his companions. I know that
there are thousands of heaven-inspired
men in the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints. I know that through
their administrations hundreds of thou-
sands have received the remission of their
sins and the gift of the Holy Ghost.
I know that, through the administrations
of some, my sins have been remitted. I
have received the gift of the Holy Ghost,
and I have received a portion of the
authority of God. By this authority I
have administered unto others, and their
sins have been remitted, they have re-
ceived the gift of the Holy Ghost, thep
have received a portion of the authority
of God, they have been healed of their
afflictions, and they have borne testimony,
privately and publicly, of these things ; and
we have rejoiced much together in the
enjoyment of the choice gifts and blessing*
of our Heavenly Father. I know that all
who have not sinned away the day of
God's favour, who will forsake their sins*

Digitized by

132

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

*wh© will covenant to keep the laws of
heaven, who will be baptized by the same
authority for the remission of their sins,
and who will receive the imposition of hands
ibr the receiving of the Holy Ghost, will
fee forgiven for their past transgressions,
mad receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,
aad will know for themselves that the
^Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints is of God. I know that the doc-
trine of gathering is of God, and that
those who obey it and continue faithful
unto him will have bread when thousands
among the nations of the earth will be
wasting away for the want of it.
They will enjoy peace when the wicked
nations of the earth are being depopulated
hj horrid wars; they will enjoy health
-when dire and loathsome diseases are
laying low in the dust millions of the
-wicked in proud Babylon; they will be

happy when hellish misery will be the
portion of the wicked outside of Zion;
and they will bask and luxuriate in the
knowledge and blessings of the celestial
worlds while those who fear not God,
who keep not his commandments, and
who persecute his people, and will not
repent, will be grovelling and suffering
the bitter curses and hot 'indignation
of a wrathful and avenging God. I know
that the kingdom of God now established
and now growing and rolling on the earth
will continue to increase and roll until all
that is good in, on, or under the earth,
will be swallowed up by it, and it becomes
a mighty, universal, and glorious theo-
cracy, which will eventually remove the
curse from mankind, and will bless,
bappify, and immortalize them, and bring
them back into the immediate presence of
their Divine Creator.

CHRISTIANITY AND "MORMONISM,"*

BT BU)U K. L. SLOAN.

(Concluded from page 117.)

Many of the most interesting and im-
portant events connected with the estab-
lishing of the Gospel eighteen centuries
ago, and its re-introduction in this age,
were made known to the human family
'with no direct evidence to support them
but personal testimony; the value of
-which, in the estimation of those who
beard it, was in proportion to the amount
of credibility they considered the testifiers
-were entitled to. And it is a fact that
not the first shadow of a reason can be
adduced for rejecting the testimony of
Joseph and his associates which did not
apply with equal force to Jesus and his
disciples.

The Prophet Joseph was poor in
worldly wealth, and almost unlettered when
he began his career, and his name was
east out as evil bv an ultra religious
generation. His followers and associates
were drawn from the same circle of
society in which he moved himself, and
all manner of malignant slanders were
industriously circulated concerning them

to invalidate their testimony, and to heap
reproach and contumely upon them. He -
and his associates laboured in honesty for
their sustenance with brain and hands,
driven from place to place by the viru-
lence of a mad mobocratic spirit, till the
very epithet by which they were known
became a byword of reproach, and to be*
lieve the testimony of a "Mormon n upon
anything relating to religion came to be
considered a piece of blind credulity al-
most equalling their own presumed fana-
ticism; and this by the professed be-
lievers in and avowed followers of that
Jesus whose character was stigmatised by
his religious compeers as embodying al-
most the climax of depravity. He was
called a drunkard, a glutton, and possessed
of a devil; his companions were often the
vile and unclean ; he rambled about from
place to p)ace without a settled habita-
tion; his associates were ignorant and
poor; he was so poor himself that he
often had not a place to lay his head; and,
to crown all, he declared himself to be the

Mormonlsm" if not used here as a tefltiiaafte word. It being en epithet fastened ss the system 1
In by our enemies, * Momoa)sm n sod Christianity sit eaienUsfly the same.

Digitized by

Google

CHRISTIANITY AND " MORMONISM."

133^

actual Son of God, while his reputed and
recognized father was well known and
often referred to, by those who listened
with horror to what thej considered his
blasphemous pretensions, as "Joseph the
carpenter." If the reasons advanced by
this generation for rejecting the testi-
mony of Joseph are satisfactory to them-
selves, how can they, while one particle of
intelligent honesty remains with them,
condemn the Jews for basing their rejec-
tion of Jesus on the same reasons ? and
why do they not evince something of the
kst shreds of manhood's nobility by boldly
rejecting the Saviour and bis mission al-
together, and give publicity to their covert
infidelity ?

A few humble and comparatively un
known individuals were chosen as the
special witnesses before whom the plates
on which the Book of Mormon was
written were displayed. Their testimony
•stands recorded and irrefutable; yet that
testimony is rejected by the world because
the Lord did not choose some of the
great and learned and notable ones among
the children of men to make known his
holy purposes to. By a parity of reason-
ing, it is but natural to suppose that the
Jews would Jook for the announcement
of so all-important an event as the advent
of the Messiah to be made through gome
of their leaders — probaMv the High Priest,
who was understood to pos*ej-s the gift of
prophecy by virtue of his office, (John xi.
£1,) or at least some of the learned and
pious doctors of their nation. But God.
* whose ways are not as man's ways,"
chose a few bumble and obscure shep-
herds as the favoured ones to whom a
holy angel declared the joyful tidings.
The witnesses to the Book of Mormon
ssvw the plates and handled them ; and
before three of tbem an angel appeared,
confirming the divine origin of the record ;
and no mortal could make them believe
otherwise, though ten thousand " Spauid-
ing'a Manuscript Found" stories had been
dinned in their ears. Yet their testimony
has been rejected, thus far, by the bulk of
the people. The shepherds saw the angel,
beard bis message, and witnessed the
heavenly chorus that joined in songs of
praise; but their testimony was rejected
by the bulk of the Jewish nation. Where,
then, is the difference between the culpa-
bility of the two generations as regards
this matter ? The greater evidently rests
upon this generation for rejecting, not the

testimony to a glorious revelation concern-
ing the birth of the child Jesus, but the
testimony, Divinely dictated, to a record
teeming with prophetic declarations and
pure doctrinal truths, delivered by an
angel and designed as the precursor of
God's greatest work among men, even the
completion of his eternal purposes.

The revelations to Simeon and A nna,re~
corded in Luke h\, are on an equality with
many of a similar character given in this
age concerning the work of the last days.

Jesus was led into the wilderness, and,
after fasting forty days, was tempted of
Satan ; but alone he passed through that
scathing ordeal, and only he could hear
testimony to the fact. Joseph was privi-
leged to behold the Majesty of heaven and
saw the dark train of the Arch Fiend
himself, after having felt his fearful power;
and he too, like his Divine Master, was
alone, so that he was the only mortal wit-
ness to the fact.

On the mount of transfiguration the
Saviour mingled in company with Moses
and Elias, who had figured in Jewish
story long centuries before ; yet none but
Peter, James, and John (his most intimate
associates,) were witnesses of the glorious
scene, and their testimony would be
looked upon with equal suspicion to his
own. In the woods, where they had gone
to pray and inquire of the Lord respect*
ing baptism for the remission of sins, did
John the Baptist appear to Joseph Smith
and Oliver Gowdery, and there conferred
upon them that priestly power of which
he held the keys ; but no other mortal was
witness of the holy presence. The resur-
rected Christ appeared to a number he-
fore his a>ceusion, but they were sincere
and devout believers, whose testimony was
met with scepticism and scorn. He an-
nounced his presence to .Paul on the road
co Damascus; yet, though accompanied
by others at the time, (persecutors like
himnelf,) his was the only voice that could
be raised in support of the fact that it
was the crucified and risen Redeemer who
had npoken. Why could not those who
accompanied Paul bear and understand
tqxally as well as he did, seeing that they
pressed the sense of hearing as well as.
he? In the silence of his ohamber
the angel appeared to Joseph, revealing
to him much of that eventful future which
was opening up before him, and time and
again has the voice of Heaven come to the
servants of the Most High in these days*.

Digitized by VjOOQLC

^134

CHRISTIANITY AND " M0RM0NI8M.'

mnd his holy angels have stood by them,
protecting them under the shadow of
their power, and speaking words of sweet
comfort to their souls. But the unbeliev-
ing multitude have been ignorant of the
fact, and have spurned those who have
testified in their midst of that which they
bad experienced and known, forgetting that
the servant of Elisha the Prophet could
not see the " chariots of Israel and horse-
men thereof till his eyes were opened to
discern spiritual objects. These important
facts, with a host of others* too numerous
to record, are entirely dependent upon
personal testimony for their substantiation
to mankind as a whole ; and this genera-
tion, in rejecting that kind of evidence,
follow in the track of those Jews whose
course of action they so loudly repudiate,
sod strike at the very basis of all-revealed
religion. God is a being of order. He
always has chosen and always will choose
particular individuals as his spokesmen
and Special ambassadors to the nations,
and to them he necessarily will more par-
ticularly reveal himself by the ministra-
tion of angels, the voice of his Spirit, und
the peculiar manifestations of his good
pleasure. But he is "no respecter of
persons/' and will therefore leave every
aoul without excuse, by giving to every one
who will seek for it in his own appointed
way the most incontestable and incontro-
vertible evidence that man could receive.

This brings us to the last and most
important testimony that could be ad-
duced in favour of the divinity of Christ's
mission to man, and in favour of the
claims of the Latter-day Work upon the
human family. Prophetic evidence might
be misconstrued, or might even be untrue.
Miraculous evidence, as we have seen,
might be the workings of an unholy un-
seen power, or might be the deceptions of
an artistic juggler. Personal evidence
regarding events might be deceptive and
false — the knavish statements of an in-
terested confederacy ; but the testimony
which it is the privilege of every man to
obtain for himself, not only endorses all
these kinds of evidence when true, but is
stamped upon the tablet of the living
soul by the seal of the Eternal and the
finger of Qod. It is a testimony which
strengthens and increases with every day's
experience in those who are humble,
faithful, and pure, growing till it per-
vades their whole being, and becomes a
.jpart of their very existence ; and further-

more, it is a testimony which no impostor,
nor any one unauthorized of God, coul<T
presume to offer, without being imme-
diately detected and his false claims ex-
posed. " If any man will do his will, he
shall know of the doctrine, whether it be
of God," said Jesus (John vii. 17,) to
those among whom he ministered ; and
this great principle boldly proclaimed
stamped the truth of his mission upon
every honest inquiring mind. The
multitude strewed his path with palms
and shouted hosannahs to his name;,
yet, doubtless, many of them joined
with equal fervour the terrible cry of
"Crucify him! crucify him!" and jeered
and mocked him in his agonizing suf-
ferings, calling upon him, if he were the
Christ, to come down from the cross ; but
they who had done the win of the Father
knew for themselves that the M consola-
tion of Israel" was revealed. This is the
great characteristic of the everlasting Gos-
pel, whether known as Christianity or
" Mormonism," and places it far above
the gospels and systems of man's origin-
ating. Modern Christianity could give,
no such knowledge, and modern Chris-
tians dare not hold forth such a promise:
hence it has degenerated into a multiplicity*
of dead forms, while they have sunk down
to a " simply believe" principle, robbing-
man of that glorious and certain faith
which begetteth knowledge and enters far
within the vail.

The declaration made by Joseph to all
who would pursue the same path, that
they should receive a knowledge from
God for themselves, stamps the validity of
his message to the nations, and proclaims
that the power of Jehovah accompanied
his ministrations. It opens up the chan-
nel of communication between the Creator
and the creature, drives infidelity into the
shades of endless night, causes sectarian-
ism to shrink down in its bloated self-
sufficiency, and stirs up the powers o£
darkness to the conflict, while it nerves
the hearts of the sons and daughters o£
God to dare all the fiery persecutions
which ruthless mobs, maddened by malig-
nant fiends, can hurl around them. It-
stamped the mission of Jesus as divine; it
stamps the mission of Joseph as divine*
It proves the continuation of pure Chris-
tianity in "Mormonism" so called, an<£
will condemn this generation for rejecting^
it as it condemned the Jews to the jost in-
dignation of God for refusing to

Digitized by Vj<

ing toacoeptiU

oogTe

HISTORY OF JOStPH SMITH,

135

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

(Continued from page 120.)

[March, 1844.]

Wednesday, 13th. In special council
from nine to twelve, a.m. Orson Hyde,
Wilford Woodruff, and James Emmett
were present, in addition to those of the
preceding day. WiUard Richards was
appointed Historian, and William Clayton
Clerk of the Council.

It was decided that Amos Fielding
should return to England, when I and
my brother Hyrum gave him the follow-
ing letter of attorney : —

M This ia to certify that the bearer thereof,
our worthy brother Elder Amos Fielding,
hath been appointed, by the First Presidency
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, our agent, to transact such business
as may be deemed necessary for the benefit
of said Church, and such as he shall see
proper throughout the island of Great
Britain.

He is hereby authorized to receive
moneys for the Temple in Nauvoo, the
poor, or for the Church ; and the brethren
will be safe should they deposit money in
his hands for any purpose pertaining to
the Church business in this place.

s^-a^n In witness whereof we have
< Corpo- J hereunto set our hands and
-} ration > placed the corporation seal of
( Seal. ) the city of Nauvoo, this 13th
v-n^ day of March, a.d. 1844.

J08BFH 8mith,
Htbum Smith,
Presiding Elders of the whole Church
of Jesus Christ of L. D. S.

Thursday, 14th. In special council
over the store from nine till one.

At two, went to see brother John
Wilkie. He had sent to me to come and
see faun. He wanted to know what he
should do. I told him of the order of
Tithing, &c., and he wanted I should
come again.

At four, went to Assembly Room
again. Lucien Woodworth sent on a
mission to Texas. At seven, adjourned
to next Tuesday, at nine, a.m.

Friday, 15tb. Dull, cloudy day, north
wind. Frosty night.

Spent the day m Council.

Being in a strait to raise money to assist
the hands in the Pine country, I sent
{Slder* B. Young and W. Richards to

borrow some money from Mr. Orme, who,
it is believed, had a large sum of money
lying idle, but did not get any.
I copy from the Law of the Lord

" This day President Joseph Smith rode
orer to brother John Wilkie's, at bis special
request, to give him some instructions
relative to his duty in regard to Tithing and
consecration.

Brother Wilkie has for a long time back
been struggling with his feelings, designing
to do right, but labouring under many fears
and prejudices, in consequence of having in
some degree given way to believe the base
reports circulated by individuals for the
purpose of injuring the authorities of the
Church, and also from various other causes.
His faithful companion has persevered dili-
gently, and with fervent prayer has called
upon God in his behalf, until she has realized
her utmost wishes.

Brother Wilkie now feels anxious to do
right in all things, and especially to pay his
Tithing to the fulL President Joseph
showed him the principles of consecration
and the means whereby he might realize the
fulness of the blessings of the celestial
kingdom ; and as an evidence that be desired
to do right, he paid over to the Trustee- in-
Trust the sum of three hundred dollars in
gold and- silver for the beutfit of the
Temple, and which is now recorded on
consecration. $300.

He also signified his intention of paying
more as soon as he could get matters
properly arranged. The President then
pronounced a blessing upon him and his
companion, that they should have the
blessing of God to attend them in their
basket and in their store — that they should
have the blessing of health and salvation
and long life, inasmuch as they would con-
tinue to walk in obedience to the command*
ments of God.

May the Lord grant his Spirit and peace
to abide upon brother Wilkie and his com-
panion through the remainder of their days ;
may their hearts expand and become en-
larged to receive the fnlness of the bless-
ings of the kingdom of heaven ; may they
have the light of eternal truth continually
springing up in them like a well of living
water ; may they be shielded from the
powers of Satan and the influence of design*,
ing men, and their faith increase from day
to day until they shall have power to lay
hold on the blessings of God and the gifts

136

HISTORY OF JOSEPH 8MITH.

of the Spirit until they are satisfied ; and,
finally, may they live to a good old age ; and
when they have lived while they desire life,
may they die in peace, and be received into
the mansions of eternal life, and enjoy a
celestial glory for ever and ever! Even so,

The Editors of the Twm and Seasons
published a short account of M Oar City
and the Present Aspect of Affairs,'' which
we insert: —

" Believing that our patrons and friends
are pleased to hear of our prosperity, we
feel bappy in apprising them of the same,
throngh the columns of our paper.

Owing to the scarcity of provision and
the pressure in the money market during
the past winter, commercial business has
been somewhat dull; consequently, those
who were not previously prepared have
been obliged to employ the principal por-
tion of their time in obtaining the necessary
means for the sustenance of their families :
therefore little improvement has been made.
But old Boreas is now on his receding
march, and spring has commenced its return
with all its pleasantness.

Navigation is open, and steam-boats are
almost continually plying up and down our
majestic river. They have already brought
aeveral families of emigrants to this place,
who have cordially joined with their friends
and brethren in the great work of the up-
building of Zion and the rolling forth of
the kingdom of God.

The work of improvement is now actively
begun, and in every direction may be heard
the sound of the mason's trowel, the car-
penter's hammer, the teamster's voice, or,
in other words, the hum of industry and the
voice of merriment. Indeed, to judge from
the present appearance, a greater amount of
improvement will be done the ensuing
summer than in the preceding one.

Almost every stranger that enters our
city is excited with astonishment that so
much has been done in so short a time ; but
we flatter ourselves, from the known in-
dustry, perseverance, and diligence of the
8aints, that by the return of another winter
, so much more will be accomplished, that his
astonishment will be increased to wonder
and admiration.

Quite extensive preparations are being
made by the farmers in this vicinity for the
cultivation of land ; and should the season
prove favourable, we doubt not that nearly,
if not a sufficient amount of produce will be
raised to supply the wants of the city and
adjacent country.

We are also pleased that we can inform
onr friends abroad that the Saints here of

late have taken hold of the work on the
Temple with a seal and energy that in no
small degree excites our admiration. Their
united efforts certainly speak to as that it
is their determination that this spacious
edifice shall be enclosed, if not finished, this
season.

And a word we would say to the 8eints
abroad, which is, that the Temple is being
built in compliance with a special com-
mandment of God, not to a few individuals,
but to all. Therefore we sincerely hope yon
wHl contribute of your means as liberally
as your circumstances will allow, that the
burden of the work may not rest upon a
few, but proportionately upon all.

Where is the true-hearted Saint that does
not with joy and delight contemplate the
endowment of the servants of God and the
blessings he has promised to his people on con*
dition that they speedily build the Temple?
Certainly you cannot reasonably expect to
enjoy these blessings if you refuse to con-
tribute your share towards its erection.

It is a ' thing of importance, and much
depends upon its accomplishment: therefore
we wish to forcibly impress the matter
upon your minds, hoping you will become
aroused to a sense of your duty — that every
company of Saints, every Elder that comes
here, and every mail may bring money and
other property for this important work,—
which, when completed, will stand, in one
sense of the word, as a firm pillar in Zion,
and which will greatly facilitate the pros-
perity of the great cause of truth which we
all are actively engaged in."

Saturday, 16th. At home. At one,
p.m., I 9at in Council with W. Richards,
O. P. Rockwell, and Bishop Miller.

The Female Relief Society had two
meetings in the Assembly Room, as it
would not hold all at once, and sanctioned
the " Voice of Innocence from Nanvoo."

Sunday, 17th. Last night, Nauvoo
was visited by a very strong wind from
the west. It blew down a portion of the
west wall of the new hall (28 by 40 feet
on the ground,) which the Seventies had
commenced on Bain-street, and they had
raised ready for the roof.

The wind continued very strong all
day. In the evening, bad a smart snow-*
storm, which covered the ground, and
was succeeded by a frosty night.

Attended prayer-meeting.

Monday, 18th. The frost of last
night was so severe as to form toe inside
the houses.

I stayed at home to recite German
with brother Xiebaur.

(To be continued.)

Digitized by

Google

EDITORIAL.

137

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS 1 MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, MARCH 3, 1861.

A Contrast that will every Year become more Striking.— The news
from the Valley received bj the last steamer i* in striking contrast with that brought
*y the same vessel from the United (?) States. With the Saints all is peace: the
Legislature has met and adjourned, after transacting the business for the Territory
devolving upon it; the holidays have passed off, and with something like the quiet
enjoyment which used to characterise that season previous to the advent of the U. 8.
army there; meetings are regularly held; and, indeed, everything necessary for -the
progress of the work and the development of the people and country is being pushed
forward aa earnestly and thoroughly as though the United States were in another
hemisphere, or were undisturbed by the slightest difficulty. All feel cheerful, and
indulge in sanguine expectations and feelings of thanksgiving for the immunity they
^enjoy from the evils that threaten the overthrow and destruction of the communities
which surround them. Property was never valued higher there than it is at present,
and though money is not very abundant, business is healthy and thriving.

With the United States the reverse of this is the case. Peace has fled, and a
feeling of mseeurity and dread has taken possession of all who nave any love for
4]Utet and good order. Banks and mercantile houses are failing; stocks are depre-
ciating, and business of all kinds, excepting the manufacture of munitions of war, is
paralysed. Prospects the most gloomy present themselves before all classes, though
there are some who resolutely shut their eyes to them, and still hope that, even if the
dread alternative of war between the North and South be resorted to, they have
nothing to be alarmed at This blind fatuity is only comprehensible upon the prin-
ciple that the Spirit of the Lord has entirely forsaken them, and they are doomed to
destruction; for, while they entertain such ideas, they make no movement to avert
the impending and terrible storm that threatens them. According to all accounts
lately received of the positions assumed by the Government and the seceding States,
•civil war seems inevitable, unless the Lord should interpose to prevent it. And if it
once begin, and the quarrel be left to the arbitrament of the sword, it will be no
difficult thing to imagine where it will end. Such scenes of disorder and bloodshed
will be witnessed as have never been exceeded in horror in any generation. The
Spirit winch impels them to separate will, if war should be commenced, sustain them
in waging a warfare that will not cease until both parties are exhausted, or one or the f
other subjugated.

The business of every State in the Union is being affected by these troubles, the
relations between each being so intimate as to make this an unavoidable result ;
and in every one there is a contrariety of views regarding the proper course to be
taken under existing circumstances. In the North, one is in favour of coercive
measures against the seceding Southern States, another opposed to coercion and in
favour of a peaceful separation j(if a separation must come), and still another in favour
of cotnpremise and granting unto the South what it demands. In the South there
•are some who love the Union and are averse to the separation, thinking it better to
4s£ht their battles in the Union : there are others who signify their willingness toj

Digitized by LjOOQ IC

138

EDITORIAL.

remain united with the North on the condition that concessions and compromises
are made to make their rights more secure ; and still another class, and they are
largely in the ascendant, who are determined at aH hazards to dissolve the Union,
and, if need be, fight to the bitter end in the assertion and vindication of every
right.

In this respect, no less than others, the contrast between Utah and the rest of the
States and Territories is very striking. Though isolated from the rest, and by no
means an uninterested spectator in the struggle now going on, yet there is no
division of sentiment among her people respecting it They have been for year*'
anticipating such a condition of affairs as now presents itself throughout the nation.
They have mourned at the infatuation of the people in bringing such evils upon:
themselves, and have done all in their power to avert them by warning them of their
approach. But, having been expecting a dissolution for years prior to their settle--
xnent of Utah, they are prepared for the consequences which must attend such at*
event, and they will pursue the course marked out for them to the accomplishment ofc*
their exalted destiny, undisturbed by the clamour and convulsions that may surroundfe
them. Thus they are different from any other community within the bounds of the?
United States, and it is wholly attributable to the Lord, who has kindly revealed his*
will to his servants, the Prophets, through which they have been made aware 06
what was coming, and how to avoid it The world will yet see that, despise the*
"Mormons" as they may for believing in and hearkening to the Prophets ansa
Apostles, they have been the instruments in the hands of the Lord of preserving his-
people from misery and the most direful calamities that can befal a nation.

To fully comprehend some of the merciful providences of the Almighty experience*
by the people of Utah, the mind must revert to the position they, were in three year*
ago. Then they were threatened with an invasion by an army whose real misskn*
was the overthrow of their religion and cherished rights. To lookers on, who com-
pared the weakness of the destined victims with the strength of the assailing foray
and judged therefrom what the result would be, their escape seemed impossible^
"Mormonism" (as it was styled,) and its believers were* to be crushed out, and their
fate was to be pointed to by the historian as a warning to all future generations.
The Lord, fortunately for us, arranged differently, and we were preserved* These-
very demonstrations against Utah, with others equally formidable made against
her people at other times, have had the effect to make the shock of dissolution^
less felt by her than by any other State or Territory in the North American
republic. They isolated her, compelled her people to keep themselves aloo£
from the rest of the Union, by cutting off almost every chance of association,
and prevented the formation of those ties, the rending of whieh is now
convulsing the other sections of the country. Utah, to pass unscathed through the
fiery ordeal that awaited the nation, had to be different from the rest of her sisters 5-
and this difference they created by singling her out and making her people the
objeots of attack.

Every one who contrasts the position of Utah with that of the nation of the*
United States at large must be struck with the advantages she possesses. Her
position is an enviable one. Her people dwell at peace, undisturbed by discord ox-
strife; they are united in faith, and have but one object in view— .the eetahliahing of
the kingdom of Qod. Martial preparations are not being made, for they are not
necessary. The. opening and strengthening of settlements, the cultivation of the*
earth, the erection of dwellings and other edifices, the development of the natnralr
-resources of the country, and the increasing of everything that contributes to th$-

CORRESPONDENCE.

13^

^happiness and liberty of a people* occupy their time and attention. With implicit
confidence in God and his servant whom he has placed to preside over them, they are
not troubled with any fear for the future, knowing that his wisdom has been sufficient
ibr the past, and will be ample for any future exigency that may arise. The contrast
between the people who have faith in God and his Priesthood and the nations who
are destitute of it will be more and more striking as time rolls on.

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.

Home of Representatives,

Washington, D. C, Feb. 1, 1861.
Elder George Q. Cannon.

My dear Friend and Brother,— Your
long-looked for and welcome favour of the
12th inst. was duly received, and its con-
tents read and re-read with interest, and I
night say with pleasure, as it is ever a
source of such tometo hear from you. Yet
I leel that' the tenor of your letter
breathes fears and responsibilities, which
it is not pleasant to know are weighing
you down. The condition of the country
does not give me that hope for your hap-
piness and for the success and prosperity
of the Saints that I wished it did.

The cloud which has been gathering
over this once happy country is soon to
burst in a fratricidal civil war, the like of
which probably has never been witnessed
by any people that have ever lived.

Tour reflections upon those things,
with the bearing and effect which they
are to have upon all that affect us, with
the bankruptcy of this country as well as
Europe, with the hunger, nakedness, and
misery— its consequent attendants, and the
difficulty of obtaining means to carry out
purposes already designed, are, I say,
enough to weigh heavy upon the mind
and energies of you or any one who loses
bis own identity for the love and good of
the cause.

Matters politically have not, I think,
materially changed for the last ten or
fifteen days, save as one luminary, after
another drops from the great galaxy— as
State after State (till they now number
one-fifth of the States of the Union,)
have seceded from the parent Govern-
ment, with Texas, Arkansas, and North
Carolina soon to follow. 1 said not
materially changed, because the public
mmd having become stultified by the fre-
quency of asecession,it is less exciting than

in the beginning; and Mr. Buchanan, evi-
dently using all his efforts to avoid a
collision between this and the 4th March,
leaves the work of tearing the country
asunder one of less excitement than if,
with the disintegration of the country,
civil war was raging.

As you have learned through the press,
the Representatives of six of the States
have vacated their seats and returned to
their constituency, thus causing a vacuum
in the representation of the two houses
which is sad to contemplate, and drawing
many a sigh from those who truly love
their country, when they look at the
empty seats where this or that Senator or
representative once sat, and who mingled
their voices in debate for that which
appertained to this country's good, now
isolated and aloof as it were in a foreign
land, banding together, by their Con-
vention on the 14th instant at Mont-
gomery, to construct a government under
which they imagine they will be more
happy. Those that remain begin to
realize the evils which are coming, and!
the items to which I have just alluded
tend much to serious reflection ; and I
really, think, were it to be so, and the
Northern States thought they could place
matters back where they were, there is
no concession in reason they would not
make. But the die is cast. The States
that have seceded, with two or three others
that will go, have cherished the matter as
the apple of their eye, and only wanted
an opportunity to accomplish their designs ;
consequently, it is useless to offer them
terms. South Carolina says she is out,
and going to stay out; and she is the
mouthpiece for the others. The Border
States evidently would like to remain, if
they could do so upon terms of reciprocity ;
and I have no doubt the North or free
States are disposed, and may offer such
terms as will be acceded to by the Border
States: but the matter would be but

.Digitized by Google

CORRMPONDBNCI,

140

temporary, if the incoming administration
should attempt to use force against the
seceding States (by what they wiU deem
their duty,) in executing the laws, as in
no event would the Border Slave States
permit an invading force to pass through
their territories, or sanction what thev
term coercion towards the South. 1
therefore reiterate that there can be no
arrangement made with the Border
States that will be permanent.

As you justly remark, those that are
inimical to us have other fish to fry than
interfering with our fireside relations,
and I am at least thankful that they are
compelled to let us alone : therefore my
situation (apart from the society of my
family and my friends that are with me,)
is^ much more pleasant than the past
winter, though my labours are heavy.

I have dates from brother Young to the
3rd inst.,and from Hooper, Eldridge, and
Co. by pony to the 14th instant. To the
latter date they had had but two or three
cold days. The advices represent matters
as moving along just about as we would
have them — peace, plenty, and generally
all in good health, though brothers Wells
and Calder had been quite sick. The Pre-
sident speaks of many useful improve-
ments that are going on in the way of
bridges, streets, roads, &c. ; all of which,
my dear brother, widely contrasts, in the
unity, peace, and prosperity of Utah, when
we view the counter state of things here.
The Legislature was about closing its
labours, and I apprehend has adopted
some salutary measures.

I have, in my intercourse this winter,
tried to pursue that policy which would
place Utah right before the country, as I
it now that all eyes are upon her. I have
represented her as being strong u Union"
in feeling, without being ultra, and, as an
evidence of her loyalty, presented her
Constitution, and sought to become one
of, and to share the fate of the States in
this their darkest hour; that notwith-
standing we had suffered all kinds of
persecution and contempt, yet we had an
endearing love for our mother country,
and were yet willing to live under the
stars and stripes, and under them get our
grievances redressed.

I fear we have no hope for admission
this winter, though there is evidently a
feeling, I think, by the majority of the
House, to let us in. Yet, as I before
remarked, I think it will not be done;

and it may be the last chance they will
ever have to refuse us. The imperfect
census returns, showing us with only
forty- odd thousand, give our opponents
an argument of opposition to our ad*
mission, forgetting Oregon and New
Mexico, which they are now talking, as a
matter of expediency, of admitting, when
they talk of population being a necessary
qualification. So much for consistency !

We all join in our prayers and wishes
for the success and prosperity of yourself
aod the brethren, trusting that our Hra
may be spared to be again united with
you. May God bless you ! %
Your friend,

Wm. HL Hooper.

FRANCE.
Paris, February 14, 1861.
President G. Q. Gannon. #

Dear Brother, — The spring is coming,
and 1 am making my best exertions to
increase the little Branch at Paris.
Louis Napoleon is getting pretty liberal.
His Italian policy will result in removing
the French troops from Rome, and the
everlasting city shall become the capital
of the kingdom of Italy. Then I will
take the opportunity to apply directly to
the Emperor for the privilege to preach
publicly the Gospel in France.

The French work I am writing for
{La Revue CorUemporainc,) is getting to
a close. The principal organ of the
French journalism, Les Debate, has pub*
lished lately a lengthy analysis of the
book of M. Jules Remy on " Mormonism.' 9
That is a. good symptom in the present
circumstances. It is, in reality, a sign of
the times.

Brother Huber has sent his first letter
from Utah. He has settled at Lehi.
My faith is getting stronger and stronger
in the mighty work of the last days.
I should be most happy to become in the
hands of the Lord an humble instrument
for spreading the eternal truth in my
native land. Prospects are better now
in France than last year. My only object
is to fulfil my present mission to the best
of my abilities, and to spend my old days
among the people of God.

Dear Brother, may the Lord bless yoa
and your labours in your present im-
portant mission, is the prayer of your ham*
ble co- labourer in the Gospel Covenant,
Louis A. Bertbakd.

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

141

SWITZERLAND.

, 1861.

Genera, February 11
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Brother Woodard and
myself wrote yon on the 23rd ultimo,
from St. Immer, since which time we
have travelled through the greater part
of Switzerland, visited many of the Saints,
and got the Priesthood in as good work-
ingjprder as possible.

There are about twelve Travelling
Elders who spend their time in teaching
the way of salvation to those who are
wilting to hear them. Besides these, are
seven or eight others, holding the offices
of Priests, &c., who are afio warning
the people; also eight presiding Elders,
with the -various Branch officers neces-
sary to as complete an organization as
it is possible to make with the material we
have to employ.

The above does not include the Valley
Elders. Brother Mutter is in Germany,
brother Gerber in Canton Berne, and
brother Ballif is more particularly em-
ployed at present in the French cantons.
Brevier Woodard has spared no pains
to make me acquainted with all the ins
and outs of the Mission, so far as our
Snorted' means would allow. We have
been united in all our movements, and I
behove that a general good feeling pre-
vails among the Saints.

The Elders are baptizing weekly.
Ibeir prospects are good for future
increase, unless the trump of war should
call the labourers from the vineyard to
the field of battle. Factories are closing
business, merchants failing, .banks break-
ings money getting scarce, governments
b or ro w i ng at a high per centage, and bills
of exchange very dear.

Itlany of the Saints are out of employ-
ment, and know not what to do; and
should the present state of things long
eomunue, starvation must stare many in
the face.

Da/nUtter No. 7, Vol. 4, was issued
last month. No. 8 is in press. Brother
Woodard is thinking soon of issuing a
double number, thus dosing the volume ;
but as jet we are undecided on the
matter. The Saints in this Mission,
including Germany, number about 700.

Brother Woodard and myself have
Tisited most of those intending: to emigrate
this season, and I believe they are in a
situation to be ready at a short notice.

The exact number I am at present unable
to tell. Brother Woodard left here, on
Saturday last, for Ulrich, on emigration

My health is improving, with the
exception of my eyes. Best respects and
love to Presidents Lyman, Rich, and
Cannon, in which brother Ballif joins.
Yours faithfully,

John L' Smith.

ENGLAND.— SO VTH DISTRICT.

BrUtol, February 13, 1861.
Elder George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — According to promise,
I herewith send you a report of the
District comprising the South, Wiltshire,
and Land's End Conferences.

I have visited nearly every Branch
and almost every family, ft is 250
miles from one end to the other in the
straightest travelling direction; and in
visiting the Branches it is more than
twice that distance : so, you perceive, it
requires some leg-service to see them all.

The Saints in this District feel well
towards the work of God. Their faith is
great, and their confidence strong in the
Lord and bis servants. The truth is
sweet to them, and their religion is the
foundation of all their happiness. Bat
they feel that this is not their home, and
their eyes and expectations are westward,
looking and longing for redemption to
come from Zion ; for hundreds of them
will never be able to emigrate by their
own means, for their circumstances are
such that they can barely torist here, to say
nothing of living. The circumstances of
the past have involved them in difficulties,
through their desire to maintain their
standing and comply with every require-
ment. Their clothes are in pawn, their
house-rent unpaid, and their provision shop
accounts increasing, so that their distress is
great ; and with little or no work, and low
wages, their prospects outside of their
religion are gloomy indeed. But the
brethren are faithful in visiting, com-
forting, and directing them in the ways of
truth and economy; and now the Saints
are trying to pay their debts, and en-
deavouring to nee themselves from bond-
which makes it difficult for the
iders to raise money enough to meet the
necessary expenses of the Mission $ and I

Digitized by

142

UTAH NEWS.

jay, God bless them, and help them to night, and gave as some good instrocv
obtain their liberty! And if I can get tioos bow to direct oar future operatiow
t>read and water, or salt and potatoes, to in order to effect the tnost gooa for the
lire upon, and can help them to pay their i salvation of the people and the glory of
debts, it makes me feel happy and con- | God. On Tuesday he left for Chelien-
-tented, and so it does my brethren. j ham.

I know we are to be judged by oar In this District there am many open*
faithfulness to God and his cause, and | ings for preaching the Gospel, but we are
our diligence among the people in spread- i short of labourers. 1 could use to great
iD£ the Knowledge of the truth, and the \ advantage a doien«more good Elders, if I
spirit we diffuse as ministers of the Gos- bad them here, —that is, if they were the
pel wherever we go, that the effects of kind I want, such as would live their
our religion might be exhibited in our religion themselves, and in the mornings
every-day life, and that we may be rise early, say their prayers, asking God
" living epistles of God, seen and read of to be with them through the day, and
all men." I can say truly that the brethren direct them by his Spirit to the honest in
who labour with me are indeed devoted heart ; then spend their time in visiting
Jto the work of God, and we are all the people all round the towns ana
united in our operations to bless the ■ country, and talk to all they could find to
JS&ints and the world. , listen to them, and thus introduce the Gos*

Our prospects for a good increase in , pel into new places, and build up Branches,
the Church are really cheering ; for many i But if they want to travel among the
of those who have left the Church are Saints only, spending their time from
now returning, and many strangers are , house to house, and preach once a week
-also attending our meetings, and are . to them alone, I do not want them, for
feeling interested, and some are being they would starve themselves and starve
-baptized. Our meeting-rooms, partiou- the Saints.

larly at Bristol and Devonport, are The location of the Travelling Elders,
-crowded with strangers, and we are here for the future will be as follows : —
-enjoying peace in oar meetings, for the Wiltshire Conference, John H. Kelson*
spirit of kindness characterizes our in* President; Travelling Elders, Charles H.
struotions to the people, and they seem | Rhees and John Windlev. (Elders Wind-
peaceably inclined towards us and the , ley and Kelson intend emigrating this
cause of God, more so than for years season.) South Conference, Wiliet
past. Harder, President ; Travelling Elders,

We had a rich time on Sunday, the Robert Hodgert, Thomas Yates, and
10th instant, at Bristol, where we held a Richard L. Mills. (Elder Mills intends
Oonference, and had all the Travelling emigrating.) Land's End Conference,
Ministry of the District together. Also . William H. Pitts, President ; Travelling
Presidents Amasa Lyman and C. C. Rich ' Elders, William C. Moody and George
were present, and their counsels and j Stanneforth. BrotherT. O.King will travel
Instructions to us and the Saints were I with me for awhile, until he is experienced
sweet and profitable, and the inspire- enough to go alone. As to the emigra-
tion of God in them was apparent tion, there will be from thirty to forty go
.and felt by us all. We had to ask the from this District this season, the par-
£aint8 to stay at home that strangers ticulars of which shall be forwarded as
might have room, and in the evening the j soon as possible.

room was full to overflowing, and much With kind love, I remain your fellow-
flood was done. On Monday, brother labourer in the cause of truth,
Lyman left for London. Brother Rich I

atayed, and met with the Priesthood at I Gbobgk Haludat.

UTAH NEWS.

(From the "Mountaineer* and « Deseret News.")

'Thirteenth Ward Assembly Rooms. I buildings were dedicated. Presidents
• New Year's Day the above-named | Brigbaa* Young and Jleber C. Kimball*

Digitized by

Google

8CMJ1ARY.

143

wd Elders W. Woodruff and Lorenzo
~£taow were present and tookpart in the
''ceremonies 01 f the occasion. The building j
has been erected by the inhabitants of the
"Ward, under the direction of Bishop Ed-
win D. WooUey and a select committee,
during the past summer and fall, and
.speaks much for the enterprise and libe-
rality of the people. The large upper room
is 60 by 36 feet; the basement is nearly
as large, and the vestry and adjoining
school-room are each 80 by 20."

'Over the entrance is a slab with
a circular inscription — ' Thirteenth
"Ward Assembly Booms, erected a.d.

MDCCCLi/

At the entrance door there is a trans-
parency of the All- Seeing Eye over the
jtraasom light. Each window in the
^Mulding has five transparent shades, with
the following mottoes painted by Mr.
Henry Maibeu

' Front or south windows — 'Virtue
— Temperance.' On the east side are
— «Fatth — Hope — Charity — Truth/
On the west side are— « Justice— Mercy
—Knowledge— Wisdom.'

The crown of the arch is about twenty
feet from the floor. About fifteen feet
irom the floor is a very fine stucco cor-
nice, and immediately underneath are
two enrichments — the workmanship of
Mr. BnmeU. Above the cornice, over
the entrance door, reaching the roof, is
a fine small ornament in relief, springing
oat from a centre shield, on which is well
painted by Mr. Morris the escutcheon of
the State of Deseret— the Bee Hive with

an Eagle resting over it, and the inscrip-
tion in Old English characters —
'Deseret.'

On the north end of the Hall is a very
commodious tribune or pulpit, capable of
seating conveniently six or eight persona
with the speaker. On the wall behind
the pulpit is a large illustrated map of
the Republics of North America and ad-
jacent islands and countries. Over the
cornice above is a similar scroll in relief,
springing out from a shield with the All-
Seeing Eye, underneath which is the in-
scription-r-' Holiness to the Lord/

Two very neat bronze chandeliers hang
from the roof. The pulpit and window*
are draped in crimson.

Behind the upper end of the hall is a
receiving-room, or vestry, 30 by 20 feet.
The basement story was probably at first
intended for school purposes, but may bo
turned to some other account In the
centre of the basement b a large adobie
heater, nine feet in diameter, and seven
feet high, with adobie walls a foot thick.
In the inside of the ' heater ' is a huge
stove capable of creating warmth suft»
cient to keep the whole building comfort-
able. While the smoke-pipe runs to the
north or back of the bunding, two flue-
pipes branch out east and west, conveying
the heat underneath the floor to two
that distribute it in the big

We believe it b the finest building ever
reared by any Branch of the Church by
its own exertions."

SUMMARY OF NEWS AMD PASSING EVENTS.

Geotrai*— There hat been another outrageous scene at the eonviot prison at Chatham;

*hut the mffitary force being still kept in prison, the ringleaders were soon placed in irons.
Altogether there are now about ninety secured. The Perseveranza publishes a telegram
iron Perugia, dated the 15th instant, announcing that the Papal Zouaves had invaded

'the Sardinian territory; but that they had been repulsed by Volunteers. The Pontifical
soldiers had fortified themselves at Nanzano. A solemn sitting of the Conncil of the Empire
.feu beta held at St. .Petersburg, which lasted seven- and-a- half hours. The Emperor
presided, and declared his wish that the proclamation for the emancipation of the serin

r ahould be issued on the 3rd of March, the anniversary of hb accession. This was agreed
to; and on that day, twenty million souls will at one and the same hour have ceased to be
property. The PatrU and Pays say— " The latest news from Cochin China announce*
*hat fresh persecutions hare been commenced against the Christians,"

Amsbjcav. The Korth Carolina Legislature has unanimously passed a resolution that, in

«aee the endeavours for reconciliation fail, North Carolina wiU go with the other Slave*

Jftatftee. The United States revenue cutter Lewis Cast had been surrendered to the State
ot Alaba m a . 50,000 people were stated to be on the verge of starvation in Kansas.
JL despatch £om Wsshinyton, dated Jan, 20, says— "At tea minutes P*H two eoiock.

Digitized by

144 VARIETIES. — POIfrRY. — KARRI A6 1. — DEATH.

this afternoon, the Private Secretary of the President announced to the United States
House of Repreeentatives that the nane of James Boohanan had been appended to tha-
bill admitting Kanaaa into the Federal Union aa a State. At twenty minutes of three
"Martin F. Conway, Representative elect from the new State, received the oath of ofEoe
smd took hie teat. The news was at once telegraphed to Kansas, and the 8tate Govern*
ment win go into immediate operation. w

VABIETIES.

Plant some anacharie and star wort in a glass jar la water, and plana Kin a etraag
sunlight. In the course of a few weeks there* will be a oonfemid growth on the glass-
arid in the water, and this growth is filled with animalcnlas.

Effect of Blub Window Glass. — If green leaves are viewed through the ordinary
blue glass used in ornamental windows, when the sun is shining, all those through whiohv
the light is transmitted appear orange-red, while those from which it is reflected appear o£
a grayish tint. On a favourable day, trees so observed seem covered with brttfiant
blossoms.

A Cuxioxjs DisoovBBY — There has lately been found in Hie township of Greenbush sv.
feafechuf urmly embedded in the heart of a white oak tree. The tree was perfectly sound,
*fad nothing was noticeable indicating that such a thing was sssbesMed therein, until It
was struck upon by the axe. Upon examination, it waa ascertained that the eueoeet.
stuck there when the tree had about thirty yeats' g^wtK aad that it had resnaja^llier*
more than two centuries, as more than two hundred years' growah of the tree was ooiestaA
oatside of where the hatohet lay. This must have been the identical hatchet with which,
the V woodman" had " spared that tree I n

POET BY,

TO ZI05.

While Sjjuflty world U quukiug,

All its empty glory spent *
Whilst the tlvrones of tings ai*sbalnae>

Zion riselh up In strength.
Unto Zion

Heaven's eternal powers rare sent.

Though * guilty world It fearing
OVerhsnglng clouds of gloom,
Zion, gloriouaJy appearing.

Claims the powers of endless bloom :

Zion's Monarch
Triumphed o'er the conquering tomb.
• ""Dublin.

Hall to thee, thou star of glory,
Beaming' o*er a world's dark night:

JUU* then gem ef ancient atoqri
Ood shell gird thy loins with might.

Oodia withttxeeT—
Pad thy overissues Mahfc

Thou art Israel's oaosolatloni

■Swostset bards thy praise shall sings

of taspicsslon, .
feerneWi

Thou the shrine of I
Stmhered •nenthth*

Hail to Zion !
Hall to Zion's glorious King 1

RlCBARS SMTTU.

Mr.

MAREiao-On the 31st of December, 18SS, la Kill On* Waf£; be Bidet John f. Snadakar,

jfonlel G. Bryan, bite of Pehuiylranim and 31 las Martha E. Ashworth, formerly of England.

*>ibd— At his residence In Brigham City, Box Elder County, on the 3rd January, very suddenly, Cant,
©avid a. RTana, formerly from Wales. •

" Why do the Saiuta Usther£» ^^^^
Christianity and * Mormoaifla* ■ <t >,.,.i w , ww . 199

History of Joseph Smith ^ , 13*

KdltoriBl.—A Contraat that will 4 Become every

Year more Striking M ...L M .... M ^ M .M. ta . , Mf

Correspondence. — America ; Letter from Hon.
w. H. Hooper.— France : letter from Elder
Bertrand.— Swiss and ItaHmi Mission: Letter

COHTKHTB.

leans 1 1 MimIssiI ileum
.Wot: Utter from Eidtr Halttday ^
Utah Kewa

nummary of News and'r%sn^'%venas M mwM.M. HB>
▼ariettas ,„, >* Aa>e

Death

LIVERPOOL

vsynro atto published' bt oeobme £ c iHHOif , 42» tsturotoir.^ 1

LONDON! • t j ' >

sea sals at Tax lattsb pay saixts' soea never, va^enwos evuasT,«Boes tmwm WUItejosv

axd all aeoaeaujtae*

rsiNtsa by ;amb* ajts Mruv, $1, seer* /our stxist, uriarodw

Digitized by

Google

THB LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILL E NNIAL STAR.

* A mtSae ehalt come even to the ertdt of the forth ; for the Lerd hath m controvert*/ with the natldntz
he wiU plead with mil Jlesh ; he wW give them that me wicked to the ttcord, eaUk the Lord."*-
Jemnuh.

. 10, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, March 9, 1881.

Price One Fenny*

THE RESTITUTION OF ALL THINGS.

BT ELDER HIVBT WUTTALL.

1 "And he shall send Jesus Christ, which before was preached onto yon, whom the heaven most and wilt
Tecalre until the tines of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy
. pstpbeta siaca the wodd begasu"— Pens.

Ill the Scriptures ,we find recorded a
few of the sayings of some few of the
many prophets of God who have lived at
different periods of time sinoe the world
bejaran.

_ The notion so prevalent among pro-
n^esing Christians, that the Bible contains
the substance of all that God has ever
rerea$l fo men and a}l that he ever will
reveal to them in this probation, is en*
erroneous; otherwise, very little
evidence, comparatively speaking, can be
adduced from the pages of the Bible in
proof of th6 Apostle s positive declaration
tnat "the times of restitutio^ of all
ri" have been w spoken" of by « all"
*?<j!Wy prophets since the woxld

re are therefor^ justified, in support
ojf the integrity of the Apostle's declara-
tion,- in coming to the conclusion that
mpch has been said by many of the Pro-
poets' and servants of God in olden times,
upon this important subject, than has
hpen banded do wn to, us in the Scripture
records.

The great importance of the subject is
s&SjcIently evident from the declared fact
ttta£ wnat has ,oeen thus foretold was,
t^altffjiin*, specify revealed to the

Priesthood by the Spirit of God. " GoU
hath spoken" to man, concerning the
latter-day work of universal restitution,'
"by the mouth of ail bis holy pro*
phots." r

" RmtiiiOiorL" This > a term idea*
tical in its literal import ^tth r&toraZion*
To restore is to fearer that which has
been perverted or«p£-to return that
which has beeaiaken awav ( or, destroyed*}
.Hence, the " restitution pf aU things'' w
the restoration of everything that has
been perverted through apostaoy, or/ loet
through rebellion, or from other csjuses,
— thus iuinlying a recovery or return of
all things ST their originally designed state
and condition.

« All things." All flung* *ave been
either partially or wholly lost or per-
verted; otherwise, they would, noCneed
to be restored. As the loss, perversion,
or apostacy has been universal, so must
be- the recovery or r€^oration,-*-the uni-
versality of the predicted resignation im-
plying or proving the universality af the
apostacy.

If we can obtain a due as to haw nil
things bavenlechued, degenerated, fallen,
or become perverted and lost from their
original design or purpose, we shall then

Digitized by

Google

146

THE RESTITUTION

OF ALL THINGS.

be able to perceive more clearly how they
are to be restored thereto. To know the
cause of an evil is to know in a great
measure how to remove it.

Evil is literally a state of disorder,
which is a perversion of order or right-
eousness ; and the cause of evil is error.
When men have erroneous notions or
ftlse views of things, they invariably go
astray. If their actions correspond with
■their thoughts — if their wrong notions
•or distorted views are carried out in life,
evil will result. In nine cases out of ten,
•evil proceedings, or a disorderly state of
things, may be traced to erratic causes.
In snort, the actual manifestation or em-
bodiment of error is evil ; that is to say,
-evil is the embodiment, the carrying nut,
or actual manifestation of error. The
resulting evil thus perpetuates the parent
error, and from thence other errors and
other evils spring and continually increase.
Thus it is that the world is full of evil of
all kinds, because it is full of error.

Error and its attendant ignorance are
represented in Scripture (as in common
parlance) by " darkness," while truth and
knowledge are denoted by "light."
Isaiah, tor example, says — "Darkness
shall cover the earth, and gross darkness
the people," (chap. lix. 2,) meaning that
false persuasions of all kinds would exist
throughout the earth — that the people
would be ignorant of the truth and be-
clouded with error — chat they would be
groping about in mental blindness, or
falsity and ignorance, void of saving
truth. The same Prophet says, on the
other hand, in reference to the wide dis-
semination and establishment of Gospel
truth in the latter times— "The people
that walked in darkness have seen a great
light : thev that dwell in the land o? the
shadow of death, upon them hath the
light shined. (Chap. xi. 9.) "The
earth shall be full of the knowledge of
the Lord as the waters cover the sea."
(Chap. ix. 2.^

As, then, the way to change or arrest
the perpetuation of an effect is to remove
the cause, it must follow, as a natural
sequence, that the most effectual way to
overcome the ravages of evil, or unright-
eousness, is to disperse the darkness of
ignorance and error producing them.
And as the only way to remove darkness
i* to introduce light, so the way to remove
ignorance and error (which result in evil,)
i9 to disseminate truth— to communicate

intelligence— to increase the growth of
knowledge and wisdom.

This is Goofs method. Hence, as the
darkness of ignorance and error in regard
to spiritual things covers the whole world
of mankind, and spiritual evils of every
kind, as well as natural ones, exist as a
consequence, and which, if unchecked,
must inevitably ruin the whole human
family, God has in these last days com-
menced to bring about the great work of
universal " restitution," or restoration of
" all things" to their proper and designed
condition.

How?

By, in the first place, revealing anew
to mankind the ancient and everlasting
Gospel. This divine light will chase
away the dense darkness of ages, and
will lead to that long-looked- for, long-
desired, and long- predicted state of things,
when "the earth shall be full of the
knowledge of the Lord, as the waters
cover the sea," and when "no man need
say to his neighbour, Know ye the Lord ;
for all shall know him from the greatest
unto the least." - (Isaiah ix. 2.)

This our own day, then, is the com-
mencement of that great era called "the
times of restitution of all things;" and
the starting-point of that great work of
"restitution" is the restoration of the
Gospel in its ancient purity, fulness, and
power.

Nearly forty years ago, that great Pro-
phet of the nineteenth century, Joseph
Smith, who realized the fact that the
whole world was enveloped in spiritual
"darkness"— that the people, both re-
ligious and irreligious, learned and un-
learned, high and low, on every hand,
were shrouded in the thick, " gross dark-
ness" of ignorance and error, was chosen
by the Lord to commence the great
latter-day work of "restitution." To him
God revealed the ancient plan of salva-
tion in its integrity and purity, giving
him the authority to promulgate the
same to the world, and the power to
dispense its blessings to all who received
it and obeyed its requirements. By
Divine authority and the attendant aid of
the Spirit bestowed upon him, he was
the humble and honoured instrument hi
the Lord's hand of laying the foundation
of his Latter-day Church and Kingdom,
and of establishing in the hearts and
minds of many of his fellow-men the pure
principles of that Gospel which is, " tha

Digitized by

ITVB TOUR BKUOION.

power of God onto salvation" to all who
receive and obey it.

Through the instrumentality of this
great Latter-day Prophet were restored,
not only the fundamental or first prin-
ciples of Gospel truth, but also the
i order of Priesthood and organiza-

tions of the Church," the ancient ordi-
nances of the Gospel covenant, the anotentv
keys of government and administrative*
authority — Melchizedecian and Leviticat
together with the spiritual gifts, miracu-
lous aids and powers, and various other
privileges and blessings pertaining thereto*

LIVE YOUR RELIGION.

BT ELDER W. O. MILLS.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is adapted
-to the capacities of all men. The man
of the loftiest intellect, whose mind has
become acute and active by study and
acquirements, and who can grasp ideas
and subjects as quickly as they can be
communicated, and the humblest soul,
wrfaose untutored mind knows little of
men and things beyond his little cot, can
alike understand the truth of heaven as
revealed m the glad tidjngs of salvation.
It is wisely provided by our Father that
it should be so comprehended ; for as the
sjon that beams from his glorious seat in
the heavens warms and vivifies rich and
poor alike, and is free to great and small,
«o is the Gospel designed to meet the
condition of every class of the human
family, as all alike are very far from the
perfection of God, to which he designs
we shall attain. There is not one Gospel
for the rich, and another for the poor.
There is not one magnificent portal to
enter the paths of truth, virtue, and
godliness for the proud, bedizened son of
wealth, and a mean, dusty, dingy back
door for the lowly and degraded. There
is no necessity for such ; for, in the eyes
smd estimation of the highest intelligencies
of heaven, the state of sin and depravity
looks as foil of deformity and hideousness
in the rich and noble as in the poor and
dejected. All are alike ignorant of God
sand his purposes, and Unable to com-
prehend the laws that place us in con-
nection with the principles and exaltation
of eternity.

The first principles of that Gospel as
taught by the Priesthood of this Church,
which distinguish us from the schemes
end systems extant and popular in Chris-
tendom, are not only easily comprehended
hj the honest seeker after truth and true
1 for salvation, but are beautifully

consistent, and inimitable. They show
the creation of a God ; they speak of av
regularity and excellency which distinguish
that Being who made the perfect laws of
the visible creation, and proclaim, with
the shining orbs that greet our wondering
vision in the nocturnal arch of heaven*
that their Original is divine. We feel
that the contemplation of those prmciples
makes us love tbem the more, and adore
their Author. They seem as far above
the schemes of religion around us as titer
works of the universe are above the*
mechanism and display of the most
elaborate orrery made by man. Every
mind that investigates them must love
them, if petty prejudice and false tradition
are abandoned. There is no question of
their superiority: as the heavens are
higher than the earth, so are God's ways
than man's ways. Mortals' endeavours to»
improve the plan only deform it. The
statue may have form, proportion, and
likeness ; but there is no life, no expression*
no power, and no perpetuity. The life*
lessness of man's imitation is a great
contrast to the greatness and vitality o£~
the works of the Creator. So the dead
forms and ceremonies of Christianity;
appear, when placed in juxtaposition wita
the pure, enlivening, and spirit-giving
power of the Gospel of Christ as con-
templated by the Saint and offered to al£*
mankind.

Not only, however, are the distinguish*
ing principles or ordinances of our Cnurda
superior to all others, but our holy reli-
gion throughout is calculated to raise
man from degradation, exalt him in.
the scale of being, dignify his mind, ele-
vate his condition and feelings, and male-
him more like that Being from whom it
emanates. The first principles are only
the beginning of the good things of the*-

Digitized by Google

~X48 LIVB TOUR

kingdom— merely the rays of truth that
team upon us from the Priesthood, as the
dawning heralds of the king of day dis-
pel the darkness of night ere his majesty
infoH splendour greets our mother earth.
They are only the inducting powers that
place our steps on the road to felicity —
the path of truth. Did our religion end
there, then it would be as little as the
-work of man. It is the beginning of
irisdotn, and imparts, and promises to
continue to impart, power to pursue the
course of truth, and to enable us to- lay
aside the traditions of our fathers, and
acquire the principles of knowledge, so that,
applying them to our individual use and
condition, we may be more pure and holy
in conduct, conversation, and purpose. It
is not he who begins the race who wins the
prise; it is not he who stands up in the fight
who is the victor. No! Towintheprize,he
most persevere in the race and attain the
goal. Even then, in the worldly race but one
or two receive a reward . In the persever-
ance in truth, all receive a glorious prize,
in continuing to battle with error and
grapple with the enemy of truth, all will
gain the conflict. It is necessary, then* to
continue in the truth, to walk in the
paths of virtue and rectitude, to be con-
stantly on the alert, and to persevere in
every good word and work. The trials
and temptations to which man is subject
tend to turn him aside from the ways of
truth, and weary him in welldoing. Too
often does he rest contented with the al-
phabet of knowledge, and thinks that he
- is secure when the book is in his hand.
To be a good scholar, he must persevere,
study the page, and let nothing attract
his attention from the object in view.
But men are forgetful of their duty, and
have to be reminded of it incessantly.
Thus the Apostles of ancient times, with
all the affection of their natures, and the
anxious solicitude of saviours, exhorted
the Saints to persevere in the ways of
righteousness. They knew the weakness
of the human heart, and found it necessary
to renew instructive lessons. Thus it is
that the man of God, Brijtham, fervently
and constantly to the Saints utters the
following short but .pithy and forceful
expression— " Live your religion." He
knows by sad experience that the failings
«f poor humanity are great, and that the
cares of life, the anxieties of business, and
-the love of tl e .w^rld wean many from
*he truth. They are imperceptibly drawn

RELIGION.

away by neglect of one little doty after
another, and permitting little deeds of
impurity to darken the light winch they
! enjoyed, until the only glimmer remaining
is an ignis fatuus, and their feet arc soon*
in an unpleasant and unwholsome quag*
mire. His soul is full of desire for the
welfare of the Saints, and with a zeal be-
coming a prophet he employs all his
energies and ability to impress the neces-
sity of being faithful to ourselves, which
is the only way to secure salvation ; and
he exhorts' them to walk in the path of
dutv, which is the path of light.

Tfhe ordinances of the Gospel arc
positively necessary to salvation, and
without them none can be saved. They
are the very basis of religion, but they
are oot religion itself, no more than the
foundation of a house is itself the edifice*
The essence of religion is comprehended in
the words of Jesus, where he says, u Thorn
shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy soul,
with all thy mind, and with all thy strength?
and thv neighbour as thyself." On this
hang ail the law and the prophets. The
ancient men of God might enunciate the
law, talk, of sacrifices, attend the cere*
monies, and discourse on rites ; but when
men had performed all required of them,
and the religious principle within them
was excited by such requirements and
means, the great subject, after all, was—
" Do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly
with thy God." The Saviour, in hiftxub-
lime discourse on the mount, when de-
livering the truths of heaven to the
assembled multitude, said, " Therefore all
things whatsoever ye would that men
should do to you, do ye even so to them ;
for this is the law and the prophets,"
This is the religion of Jesus, this is our
holy religion, this is the principle that
will make us like God, and this is the key
which will open the kingdom of heaven
to all men. If such teaching were
universally understood and adopted, would
not the evil passions of man be subdued,
his propensities and faculties be used m the
proper channel, the sufferings of fallen
humanity he alleviated, and the whole
earth become one scene of truth, right-
eousness, peace, and joy ?

To consummate such a desirable state
of things— a state for which we are
not only suited, but which will and must
exist, God has implanted universally
within the human breast the religions
principle, and has established the GoapeL

Digitized by

LIVE TOUR RELIGION.

149

mite simplicity and power on the earth.
His servants are calling upon the Saints to
lite their religion, bo thai) they may enjoy
its spirit, partake of its holy influence, and
make their conduct exemplify their walk
with the holy Jesus. Now, to live our
religion, we must love God with all the
intensity of our nature, recognize his
-commandments, live by his every word,
and make all circumstances bow to his
frill. If he calls us to go from the land
of our fathers and desert the home of
childhood — if he demands our talent, time,
and money, — if he sends us in the midst
of earth's wicked children, though danger
or death threaten, — if he requires us,
above all, to conquer our evil desires and
purify oar lives, we must do all these, and
mere, to live our holy religion — to love
God. We must likewise love our neigh-
bour as ourselves. Ye*, that is sound
religion. We should act precisely to
others as we wish them to act towards us
in every righteous principle. Borne aver
that we cannot love others as we love
ourselves. If we cannot, then Jesus
spoke idle words. He would not give a
precept which could not be obeyed. We
snow that it can be accomplished ; and
Without it we cannot enjoy our religion
to the full. When our neighbour's
name is evil spoken of, and his character
assailed, we should not join in the evil
work; for we would not wfch'him to
defame and villify us. We should defend
the character of our brother and sister in
their absence, and seek to soften rancor-
ous feelings against them, as we would
wish them to defend us in such company.
We should never steal from others their
property , no matter whether valuable or
worthless, as we would wish ours to be
kept sacred. We should not seduce the
lair daughters of Eve, nor commit impure
actions, as we would preserve from viola-
tion and seduction those fair ones, were
they our own daughters or sisters.
When misery and poverty are the lot of
others, and the poor hearts are dejected
by the stroke of misfortune or folly, we
should extend the .hand of kindness with
liberality in it* /palm, if the means are
within our power, or at least speak sooth-
ingry and kindly, if we can do nothing more,
as we would that . others should sympa-
thise with us and administer to our wants,
were our state as wretched. Well has
President Young inculcated the principle
of liberality in giving to all who request

his assistance in the plea of poverty. a Ife
is better," says he, " to give to all who>
come, even if you are imposed upon often*
if in your giving, you relieve one or two-
honest worthy creatures. Your reward
will be sure, even for all." Bear kindly
with the failings of all, and do all that hem
in your power to ameliorate the ccodtfes*
of degraded humanity. You would Eke
that others should bear with you. Yet*
let not your eye wink at sin, nor your
soul tamper with iniquity. If brethren*
and sisters need assistance in sickness or
distress, apply the remedy of consolatioav
as you would expect it from others. If
the work of God needs pecuniary niwiit
ance, render it cheerfully and oonsisteiitrjL
Administer to the necessities of Goto
Ministry, who leave wives, children, and
friends, and sacrifice the comforts of
home and the profits of business to bless
you and the world, as you would liheito>
be remembered kindly, were you in such a
calling. Live your religion, by receiving*
truth and suiting it to your indrridaal
necessity. It is your privilege to acquire*
intelligence from every place— to : leans
good from every circumstance— to see

" Sermons in stones, books In the running Tirtsfcy,
And good In everything.' *

Like the little bee — the emblem of our
mountain home, which flies cheernslv
along, sipping sweets from every flower;
and though at times it may be disap-
pointed by alighting on some juieelessr
branch or spray, yet it sings gladly on,
and pursues its trials until it sue
and is burdened with its delicious
sure. God is the source of all intellige
and truth to us. He spreads it out fcr
our contemplation and profit. It is our ro*-
ligion to learn all we can of Him by know 1 -'
ing his laws — natural, social, moral, and
divine. It is our duty to pour out onr
souls to God in prayer, whether we bask
in the sunshine of prosperity or are cast
down in the depths of adversity. Either
state is for our good, if God permits ifc.
Humility to bear the former, or courage*
to meet the latter, should be our desire j
and God will assist us in either trial, if*
we seek his aid.

To perform those duties is religion/ osT
the noblest character and highest 1
To do them will make us tike God i
Jesus his Son. Without an attempt and
perseverance to walk in that manner, we-
shall not live our holy religion ; audit in-
to be feared that we shall be as soundinsr^

Digitized by

Google

BISTORT Of JOSEPH SMITH*

TSS

tones and tinkling cymbals. It should be
-tour ambition to accomplish these duties,
li is true that we may fall short at
ft e aou t of such perfection ; yet, if we per-
severe and hold fast to the truth, ear
task each day will be easier ; and, God be

praised, he will assist our endeavours, and
we shall come off more than conquerors*
through him who loved us. This is
practical, sound religion, such as Qod
recognizes. Let the Saints, therefore*,
learn to live their religion.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 136.)

[March, 1844.]

Tuesday, 19th. Met in Council in the
Assembly Room. Elders Samuel Bent,
Uriah Brown, Samuel James, John D.
Parker, Orin Porter Rockwell, Sidney
Kgdon, William Marks, and Orson
Spencer met in Council, in addition to
toe former names.

In the afternoon, heavy driving rain.
JT.W. wind. Dull cold day.

Wednesday, 20th. Severe cold N.W.
wnd, with a snow and hail-storm until
tan, a.m. Afternoon dull. W. wind.

Spent the morning and afternoon in
the Assembly Room, studying the lan-

Uder Woodruff read me a letter which
i had written to Colonel Solomon Cope-
ad concerning his nomination to be a
candidate for the Vice-President of the
United States.

The Illinois Springfield Register has
the following : —

m m*n*RJLL JOSEPH SMITH A CANDIDATE FOB
PRESIDENT.

It appears by the Nauvoo papers that the
Harmon Prophet is actually a candidate for
ttm Presidency. He hss sent ns his pam-
phlet, containing an extract of bis principles,
from which it appears that be is np to the
fcnb for a United States Bank and a pro-
tective tariff. On these points be is mnch
snore explicit than Mr. Clay, who will not
say that he is fora bank,.but talks all the time
«f 9 restoring a national inrrency. Nor will
Hr. Clay say what kind of tariff be is for.
He says to the 8outb that be has not suffi-
oesatly examined the present tariff, bat
thinks Tery likely it could be amended.

General Smith professes no such fastidious
dotieaey. He comes right out in favour of a
leak and a tariff, taking the true Whig
(round, and ought to be regarded as the
xeal Whig candidate for President, until
^■x. Clay can so far recover from his shuffling

and dodging as to declare his sentiments
like a man.

At present we can form no opinion of
Clay's principles, except as they are pro*
f eased by bis friends in these parts.

Clay himself has adopted the notion
which was once entertained by an eminent
grammarian, who denied that language waa
intended as a means to express one's ideas*:
but insisted that it was in rented on purpose*
to aid us in concealing them.*

The Iowa Democrat publishes —
"A NEW CANDIDATE IN THE FIELD.

We see from the Nauvoo Neighbour that;
General Joseph Smith, the great Mormon
Prophet, has become a candidate for the>
next Presidency. We do not know whether
he intends \o submit bis claims to thei
National Convention, or not ; but, judging
from the language of his own organ, we
conclude that he considers himself a fall
team for all of them.

All that we have to say on this point ia,
that if superior talent, genius, and Intel-
ligence, combined with virtue, integrity,
and enlarged ?iews, are any guarantee to
General Smith's being elected, we think that
he will be a ' full team of himself.'

The * Missouri Republican believes thai it
will be death to Van Buren, and all agree>
that it must be injurious to the J>emocraUo
ranks, inasmuch as it will throw the Mor-
mon vote out of the field.'

A tra?eller, having visited Nauvoo for a>
few days, wrote to the Timet and Season* —

" Mr. Editor,— Before I take my do*
parture, permit me to express my views
relative to the leading men of your dty»
where I have been these few days.

I have been conversant with the great
men of the age ; and, last of all, I feel that L
have met with the greatest, in the presence
of your esteemed Prophet, General Joseph
Smith. From many reports, I ha&reaaoat
to believe him a bigoted religionist, as igno-
rant of politics as the savagea ; but. to nj
utter astonishment, on the short acquaint-
ance, T ha?e found him as familiar in the

Digitized by

HISTORY OF .T08BPH SMITH.

151

cabinet of nations ai with his Bible; and in
the knowledge of that book I hare, not met
with his equal in Enrope or America.
Although, if I should beg leare to differ
with him in some items of faith, his noble-
ness of soul will not permit him to take
offence at me. No, sir ; I find him open,
frank, and generous, — as willing others
should enjoy their opinions as to enjoy his
own.

The General appears perfectly at home on
erery subject, and his familiarity with many
languages affords him ample means to be-
come informed concerning all nations and
principles, which his familiar and dignified
deportment towards all must secure to his
interest the affections of erery intelligent
and virtuous man that may chance to fall in
his way, and 1 am astonished that so little
la known abroad concerning him.

Tan Boren was my farourite, and I was
astonished to see General Smith's name as a
competitor; but, since my late acquaintance,
"Mr. Van Bnren can nerer re-seat himself in
the Presidential chair on my rote while
General Smith is in the field. Forming my
opinions alone on the talents of the two, and
from what 1 hare seen, I hare no reason to
donbt but General Smith's integrity is equal
to any other indiTidual ; and I am satisfied
he cannot easily be made tbe pliant tool of
any political party. I take him to be a
man who stands far aloof from little caucus
qnibblings and iquabblings, while nations,
governments, and realms are wielded in his
hand as familiarly as the top and hoop in
the hands of their little masters.

Free from all bigotry and superstition, he
dives into every subject, and it seems as
though the world was not large enough to
aatisfy his capacious soul, and from his con-
versation one might suppose him as well
acquainted with other worlds as this.

8o far as I can discover, General Smith is
the nation's man; and the man who will
exalt the nation, if the people will give him
the opportunity; and all parties will find a
friend in him so far as right is concerned.

General Smith's movements are perfectly
anomalous in the estimation of the public.
All other great men have been considered
wise in drawing around them wise men;
but I have frequently heard the General
emlled a fool because he has ' gathered the
wisest of men to his cabinet; but this subject
is too ridiculous to dwell upon. Suffice it
to say, so far as I have seen, he has wise
men at his side — superlatively wise, and
more capable of managing the affairs of a
8tate than most men now engaged therein,
which I consider mnch to his credit, though
I would by no means speak diminutively of
jny old friends.

J?rom mj brief acquaintance, I consider

General Smith (independent of his peculiar
religious views, in which, by-tbe-bye, I
have discovered neither vanity nor folly,)
the sine qua non of tbe age to our nation's
prosperity. He has learned the all -im-
portant lesson 'to profit by the experience
of those who have gone before so that, in.
short, General Smith begins where other men
leave off. I am aware this will appear a
bold assertion to seme ; but I would say to
such, Call, and form your acquaintance, as I
have done; then judge.

Thus, sir, yeu have a few leading items of
my views of General Smith, formed from
personal acquaintance, which you are at
liberty to dispose of as you think proper. I
anticipate tbe pleasure of renewing my
acquaintance with your citizens at a future
day. Yours respectfully,

A Traveller."

A writer in the Qaincy Herald reflects
very strongly upon the conduct of the
Quincy Whig, New York Tribune, and
other newspapers, for publishing slander-
ous falsehoods against the Saints.

Ten, p.m., commenced snowing again.

Thursday, 21st. A cold snow-storm
through the night.

In Council in the Assembly Room,
discussing the propriety of petitioning
Congress for the privilege of raising
troops to protect the making of settle-
ments in the uncivilized portions of our
continent.

Willard Richards was appointed a com-
mittee to draw up a memorial to Con-
gress.

Friday, 22nd. Snow on the ground ;
cold bleak north wind ; cloudy.

At ten, a,m., held Mayor's Court, and
afterwards read German in the reading-
room.

In the afternoon, met with tbe Twelve
in prayer at President B. Young's house.

1 advised the Seventies to pull down
the remainder of the walls and rebuild
the Seventies' Hall on a permanent basis
from the foundation, and not erect for
themselves a trap, but build one two
stories high, and strong enough to stand
for a generation.

Saturday, 23rd. Day warmer. Rode
out with Clayton to endeavour to raise
money to furnish the hands in the Pinery
with supplies. Visited the Temple and
Public Works.

Also called with William Clayton and
Alexander Neibaur at Dr. Foster's. He
was gone to Appanoose, and Mrs. Foster
was at Mr. Oilman's.

Digitized by Google

152

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SHITE.

I here extract from William Clayton's
journal : —

••We went down there and low her.
President Joseph ssked sister Foster if she
ever in her life knew him guilt} of an im-
moral or indecent act. She answered, 'No.'
Be then explained his reasons for asking ;
which were, he had been informed that
Dr. Foster bad stated that Joseph made
propositions to his wife calculated to lead
her astraj from the path of virtue; and
then asked if ever he had used any indecent
or insulting language to her. She answered,
•Sever.' He further asked if he ever
preached anything like the plurality of
wife doctrine to her other than what he had
preached in public? She said, 'No.' He
asked her if he ever proposed to have illicit
intercourse with her, and especially when he
took dinner during the doctor's absence.
She said, 'Wo.* After some further con-
versation on the subject, we left. Mrs.
Gilman was present all the time. President
Joseph and Neibaur then went on foot to
the farm."

Sunday, 24th. At ten, a.m., met at
the Stand near the Temple. The follow-
ing very brief outline of the speeches is
from the journal of W. Woodruff: —

"President Joseph Smith addressed the
people. The following is the substance of
what I heard him say : —

' I have been informed by two gentlemen
that a conspiracy is got up in this place for
the purpose- of taking the life of President
Joseph Smith, bis family, and all the Smith
familv, and the heads of the Church. One
of the gentlemen will give his name to the
public, and the other wishes it to be. hid for
the present: they will both teRtify to it on
oath, and make an affidavit upon it. The
names of the persons revealed at the head of
the conspiracy are as follows : — Chancey L.
Higbee, Dr. Robert D. Foster, Mr. Joseph
H. Jarkfton, William and "Wilson Law. And
the lies that C. L. Higbee has hatched up as
a foundation to work npon are — he say a
that I had men's heads cut off in Missouri,
and that I had a iword run through the
hearts of the people that I wanted to kill
HDd put out of the way. I won't swear out
a warrant against them, for I don't fear any
of them : they would not scare off an old
sitting hen. I intend to publish all the
iniquity that I know of them. If I am
guilty, I am ready to bear it. There is
sometimes honour among 'enemies. I am
-willing to do anything for the good of the
people. I. will give the name of one of the
gentlemen who have divulged the plot : his
name is M. G. Eaton. He will swear to it:
he is a bold fellow. Joseph H. Jackson

said a Smith should not be alive in twe
weeks, — not over two months aay how. Con-
cerning the character of these men, I will
say nothing about it now; but if I hear
anything more from them on this subject, I
will tell what I know about them.'

Elder Orson Spencer addressed the people
as follows : —

' While listening to President Smith's re-
marks, I thought of a figure, — t. e., if a
physician was going to dissect a body, he
would not be likely to begin at the limbs,
but cut the head off first. So the adversary
of the Saints has laid a plan to out off the
head of the Church with the intention of
scattering and destroying the whole body.
It was so in the days of Jesus Christ : the
enemies of the truth sought to kill him,
that the body might be destroyed ; which,
was also the case in the days of Elijah,
Daniel, and many of the ancients.

I once heard a man say, who was opposed to
this work, ' That it might be- true, but it gave
Joseph Smith power.' True, said I; but if
his power be subordinate to the power of
God, it is right. If a man set up a kingdom
by the power of God, then let others seek
power from the same source. God sets up
kingdoms and pulls down kingdoms: this
makes men mad who will not submit to the
kingdom of God. We all know the result of
the power of Moses, who was the repre-
sentative of God.

Judging from what is past, how will it be
when God sets up his kingdom in the last
days ? Whether there is a conspiracy now,
or not, I don't know ; but no doubt there
will be, if not now, for it has always been
so. In the days of the Nephites, they had
their Gadianton robbers. I have not anj
doubt but that the apostates will join with
the other wicked powers to try to' put down
the power of God, and I am glad to have
the power of the kingdom of God tested ;
and when it is fully tried, it will stand.
I care not what sacrifice I am called to
make for such a kingdom. If it is friends,
wealth, or even life, at the purchase of
such a kingdom, it is cheap. Did the anoient
Apostles, Prophets, or Saints who died pay
too much for that kingdom ? They did not.
It is necessary that men be put in possession
of the knowledge and mysteries of the
kingdom of God, in order to sin as far as
they wish, that they may go to the highest
pitch. How often men lay down their
lives for their country and other purposes.
How much better, then, to die for the cause
of Zion! Good and .righteous men will
administer justice and rebuke eviL The
Church should be cleansed from bad men,
and the Lord will take his own way to
cleanse the Church.

We should lift up our voice against

Digitized by

Google

wickedness of all kindi. Bat will the rulers
of our land do it ? No, they will not; they
will be cowards until there is no man to
fight, and then be brave. When Govern-
ment will not do it, some man should take
the helm of Government that will do it.
"Will it be called treason, if the God of
heaven should set up a kingdom ? May the
Lord give yon more and more of his Spirit,
light, and intelligence, until yon are ce-
mented together in union and love. Amen.'

Elder Sidney Rigdon addressed the meet-
ing.

President Joseph Smith again arose and
said — 'In relation to the power over the
minds of mankind which I hold, I would
say, It is in consequence of the power of
truth in the doctrines which I have been an
instrument in the hands of God of pre-
senting unto thero r and not because of any
compulsion on my part. I wish to ask if
ever I got any of it unfairly ? — if I have
not reproved you in the gate ? I ask, Did I
ever exercise any compulsion over any man ?
IKd 1 not give him the liberty of disbelieving

EDITORIAL* 163

any doctrine I have preached, if he saw fit?
Why do not my enemies strike a blow at
the doctrine? They cannot do it : it is truth,
and I defy all men to upset it. I am the
voice of one crying in the wilderness, < Repent
ye of your sins and prepare the way for the
coming of the Son of Man, for the kingdom
of God has come unto jou, and henceforth
the axe is laid unto the root of the tree ; and
every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit,
God Almighty (and not Joe Smith) shall
hew it down and cast it into the fire."*

After meeting, I rode out with Emma.
The trees begin to bud forth.

In the evening, held a conversation with
a large company of friends at my door.

Elder R. H. Kinnamon writes that
daring the last 22 months be has baptized
over 100 persons while on a mission in Vir-
ginia and North Carolina, organized two
Branches in Virginia, and calls are con-
tinually made for preaching in every
direction.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, MARCH 9, 1861.

Power of the Elders for Good or Evil.— Unvirtuous Conduct, Mar-
riage, &c. — When the Elders of Israel are in the active discharge of their duty and
enjoying the full measure of the spirit of their calling, they possess an influence with
the people who receive their testimony unequalled by any other class of men. The
truth they teach is so sweet, and produces such joyful feelings, and the Spirit which
accompanies it fills the heart with so great a degree of love, that those who receive
it seem. to think them but little less than angels. This is universally the case in every
land where the Gospel has been preached and believed. Of course, therefore, the
Elders possess great power for good or evil : for good, if they are led by the Spirit of
the Lord ; for evil, if, instead of that Guide, they suffer themselves to be exalted in
their own feelings by pride, and give themselves up to be led by their lusts. . The
inducements for the Elders to do right are most glorious ; the temptations to do
wrong with those in whom a love of righteousness is not implanted are very strong.
Their very position, which in one case is so powerful for good, is in the other power-
•ful for evil.

Among those who bear the Priesthood, there are found occasionally some indi-
▼iduals who no sooner obtain a little influence with the Saints, through their position
and the principles of which they are the ostensible teachers, than they become lifted
up, forget the Lord and their obligations, and abuse their opportunities. They
take advantage of their position to accomplish their own ends, entirely regardless of
4he principles of truth and virtue. Instances of this kind have been and still are* wa

• GooQle

EDITORIAL.

are sorry to say, far too oommon. The day is fast passing, however, for such person*
to be in the least tolerated. As a people, we are progressing too far in the knowledge
of the principles of righteousness for the Lord to bear with us in the commission of
such acts now as he might have done in the days of our ignorance. If Elders will
not demean themselves as become th men of their profession, they may rest assured
thai their conduct will not be overlooked either by the Lord or by his servants.

Among the evils that are indulged in by those who fail to give heed to the Spirit
of the Lord as their guide, there is none that is attended with more baneful effect*
than lustful and unvirtuous conduct ; and yet it is a sin that has been indulged ha
more frequently, probably, by such characters than any other. We are satisfied that
most of the cases of apostacy of those who have made **ny advancement in the
knowledge of the truth, if traced to their beginning, would be found to originate ha
this sin. The weakness, confidence, or ignorance of the opposite sex has been taker*
advantage of, and the result has been a withdrawal of the Spirit and a loss of that
knowledge and certainty which enabled them to remain stedfast. As in the daysoT
Jesus, when the Gospel was preached in purity and power, accompanied by the?
Spirit of the Lord, so now, while being preached similarly and with the same*
accompaniment, woman is found to be very susceptible to the truth, to embrace it
readily, and to open her heart to its spirit and all its influences. By nature confiding*
there are no bounds to her confidence when the light and power of the Gospel and
the Holy Spirit rest upon her ; and, undisturbed by a doubt, she yields herself to be
governed by that Priesthood which her newly- awakened knowledge testifies to her
to be of God. Then commences to rest upon the Priesthood a grave responsibility.
The men of God who bear the Priesthood watch over the convert as a kind father
watches over his young and tender offspring, instilling into its mind correct principles*
and strengthening it against every trial that may assail it; but false shepherds*
having only the outward guise of true shepherds, strive to take advantage of that
confidence to accomplish their own ends : they look with eyes of lust, which Jesus
has said will be followed, unless repented of, by their denial of the faith.

The Presidency here are determined, as far as possible, to cleanse the Ministry from
all such characters as belong to the latter class. No man that is dishonest, unvnrv
tuous, or guilty of taking advantage of his position in any way to the injury of the*
work or the Saints, is fit to act in the ministry. We wish you to see to it, Presidents
of Districts, throughout your several fields, and report every man who so conducts,
himself to the Presidency here, that we may take action upon his case. Much as we
want help in the ministry, we should yet think the work and ourselves in a far
better condition with any conceivable reduction in the number of Elders, if all who
remained were pure and upright men, than to have as many as we could use of the
other kind. The more of such there are, the worse off the Mission will be. This
every man who has had any experience in the work must know. And they know
also that while impurity exists among either officers or members, the blessings of
the Almighty must of necessity be withheld. On the part of the Priesthood there
must be an awakening to the importance of their position. Iniquity of every kind
must be banished from their midst; and when they become free therefrom, the Saints
will not be far behind.

In this connection, we would advise the native Elders engaged in the ministry who
may wish to marry to send in their resignations before doing so. Although
there may be a time for all things, yet we do not think the present a suitable time
for Elders to marry who are labouring in the ministry. Their usefulness would be
impaired thereby, as to do their duty as it ought to be done requires their undivided

Digitized by Google

CORRESPONDENCE.

155-

attention. The Elders from the Valley, of coarse, know as well as we what their
duty on this subject is. They have been taught to refrain from marrying, from
covenant-making, and from courting by letter or otherwise ; and any Elder who
indulges in any of these things must know that he does so in direct oontravention of
bis instructions, and commits an act which is offensive in the sight of Heaven and of
good men. Any man taking such a course ought to be, and doubtless would be,
sent home, upon its being known by the Presidency here. Even if the young men rfnd
women who are members of the Church in these lands could realize what would
really be for their good, they would spare no exertions to gather before they married*
They can effect their deliverance much more easily while single than afterwards.
We have known numerous instances of Saints having been kept for long years from
^fathering with the body of the Church, through being so fettered with a family that
they could not move, unless helped. They might have gathered years before with but
little or no trouble, had they remained single and exercised wisdom and forethought;,
und we donbt not there are numbers throughout this Mission who have thrown*
obstacles in the way of their own emigration by a similar course.

Abstract of News from the Conferences.— Elder Baxter writes from
Hikaarnock, Feb. 18th, that he is "at the present time labouring in the western
district of the Glasgow Conference," and says that " the Saints are feeling first-rate,
and rejoicing more and more in the great work of the Lord. The Local Ministry
are united in all their efforts to do good, and numbers are still being added to the
Church by baptism in this quarter; and many who have fallen by the way in days
past are inclining their ears to the warning voice of the servants of God." He adds
— * As a general thing, we have good meetings, a goodly numbers of strangers
attending."

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.— DESEBET.

Great Salt Lake City, Jan. 17, 1861. .
Brother Amasa Lyman.

Tbs being the last week of the Legis-
lative session, of course everybody con-
cerned is very busy. .Many bills have
been presented during the session, but
Tcry few have passed, and those mostly
aot of the highest importance. Amongst
them is one granting the privilege of a
branch penitentiary at Carson, at the
expense of the county.

On Tuesday, the new bridge over the
Jordan was fairly inaugurated by Presi-
dents Yeung and Kimball, the members
of the Legislature, and many of the
county and city authorities passing over
it. The unanimous conclusion seemed to
be that it was the best bridge in the
Territory.

After the adjournment of the Legisla-
ture, I expect to take a tour in the
southern settlements, in company with
Joseph A. Young and Brighton Young,
junior.

The Supreme Court continues in ses-
sion; cases moving very slowly, as is con-
sistent with great bodies 1

The weather is rather more winterly
now, though not severely cold. On
Tuesday the snow fell all day. Snow-
ing this afternoon.

Yours, &c,

George A. Smith. '

SCOTLAND.

Edinburgh, Feb. 20, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Sir,— Thinking it would not be
uninteresting to you, I forward a brief

Digitized by

Google

156

CORRESPONDBNCH.

Sketch of the progress of the Scottish
District during the last six months of
1860. I intended to have written you
before, but I have been busy travelling
■with President D. M. Stuart and turning
over to him the business of this District.
In June, I860, Elder Elias H. Blackburn,
from Utah, succeeded Elder Wm. Gibson
to travel through Scotland to infuse the
spirit of Zion amongst the churches.
During their administration the work
began to revive, and many who had stepped
out of the way renewed their cove-
nants. The meetings were well attended,
and much good ,seed was sown. In
August, Elders D. M. Stuart and John
Tobin, from Utah, commenced travelling
through the District ; and in September,
William S. Baxter arrived. These brethren
have travelled and preached the Gospel
through all the churches in Scotland,
infusing the spirit of Zion. In Sep-
tember, we were also blessed with a visit
from Presidents Ama?a Lyman and N. V.
Jones : our meetings were filled to over-
flowing. One Sabbath evening, after Pre-
sident Lyman bad finished his discourse,
which was delivered in the Clyde St.
Hall, Edinburgh, a gentleman arose and
said he had attended the meeting for the
express purpose of hearing the peculiar
tenets of the "Mormons," but declared
he had heard nothing but Christianity —
nothing but what he could fully endorse.
The fact is, they know nothing but news-
paper or pulpit " Mormonism so it is
no matter of surprise that such remarks
should be made when they hear the
truth.

Elder E. L. T. Harrison wrote a pithy
circular, entitled " The Truth as it is in
Christ Jesus; or, A Few Words about the
Power of God;" at the conclusion of
which a testimony was borne to the
restoration of the Church of Christ. It
was signed by the Presidents of Conferences
and myself. Many thousands were printed
and widely circulated through the Dis-
trict.

We have also had many lectures
given. In the summer season the
Travelling and Local Ministry spent
much time in outdoor preaching, bear-
ingtheir testimony to the truth.

We baptized 173 during the last year,
and the prospects are that a far greater
increase will be realized the present

J ear. There are 34 Branches in the
)istriot, 3 Seventies, 159 Elders, 72

Priests, 45 Teachers, 33 Deacons, 980
members ; in all, 1,292 souls. We emi-
grated 62 persons, bad 13 deaths,
and excommunicated but 14 duriag
the whole year; which, I think, sneaks
well of Scotland.

The generality of the Saints are poor
in their circumstances, and are veryjnuch
oppressed: generally they have large
families, and hard indeed is their battle of
life ; but they strive, as a general thing, to
do their best for the Church. Their
prospects for emigration are poor, and many
have been quite a number of years in the
Church, and are weary to go home to Zioo.
Truly have I Been the comforting imfa*
enoes of the Holy Spirit in the homes of
the poor, and nave felt blessed indeed
while administering in my calling as a
Travelling Elder. If any need^ the
voice of comfort and salvation, it is
the poor, oppressed, and down-trodden,
amongst mankind who earnestly desire to
do right, and are striving in the midst of
conflicting circumstances to work out
their salvation. May the time soon arrive
when the Lord, with a mighty, out*
stretched arm, will gather his elect from
the midst of the wicked 1

On January 1st, 1861, Elder D. M.
Stuart was appointed to succeed me in
the Presidency of this District. I feel
very happy in having the privilege of
emigrating to Zion — the mountain of
Ephraim, to learn the ways of the Lord
and walk in his paths. I have had the
pleasure of travelling through with Pre-
sident Stuart, and have been much
blessed in his society. I am now travelling
under his direotion, preaching the Gospel,
have felt renewed and refreshed in my
spirit, and feel determined by the help
of our Heavenly Father to endure unto
the end.

I have been treated with the greatest
kindness by the Saints in Scotland, and
shall ever pray for their prosperity
and advancement in the kingdom of
God.

With regard to the Travelling Minis*
try, I believe we have all done the best
we could. I feel it is a great bless*
in£ to all that have had the privilege of
being schooled in the school of the Pre*
phets in Zion, or elsewhere, and feel like
leaving myself in the hands of God's
Priesthood to judge of my course.

I can bear my testimony that God hat
established his Church upon the earth*

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

and tnat-ihe dispensation of the fulness- of
times has been ushered in; and all can
have this testimony, if they will obey the
Gospel with an eye single to the glory of
God.

Ever praying for the salvation of
Israel and the honest in heart every-
where, I subscribe myself yours very
respectfully in the kingdom,

George Teasdale.

Edinburgh, February 19, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I forward you a brief
report of our proceedings up to this time.
Having just completed a tour through
the Conference, most of the way in corn-
many with brother Stuart, I am happy to
be able to state that the spirit of freedom
and lenity seems to be greatly on the
iderease.

We held three District meetings — the'
last on Sunday, 17th February, in Fife.
At each of these meetings the reports
were cheering. At the District meeting
held in Fife, two emigrating Branch Pre-
sidents were replaced by two good and
promising men; and a young brother
^Alexander Rogers,) was called out by
brother Stuart to travel in Fife and
preach the Gospel.

We bad a very interesting time in
visiting the Saints from house to house,
were very kindly treated, and found, in
fact, that both good and indifferent Saints
are all the better for association with
those appointed to be their fathers in the
things of God.

It will take patience and time to brmg
the bulk of the Samts to drink fully into
the spirit of the present administration ;
but the spirit and influence appertaining
to the Priesthood are gaining ground;
and there are in "every Branch men and
women of the very best kind, who appear
to have been all the time living their
religion, and only too anxious to pro-
gress.

From many quarters we hear con-
tinually of visions, dreams, &c, given to
people out of the Church, preparing them
fat the Gospel. My own faith is that in
scores of places new Branches will yet be
opened. There appears* to be a great
work of preparation going on among the
people.

There seems to have been a heavy cloud
aor years past over this portion of Scot-

157

♦

land. The - Lord has been pleased to
bring his people through a peculiar train
of circumstances. As far as I am con*
cerned, I do not know of any cases in
which the presiding Priesthood, as well as
Saints, have not done the very best under
the circumstances.

That we labour under more favourable
circumstances is the cause of any im-
provement in matters. For being thus
privileged, we can only thank our Father in
heaven.

Brother Stuart says he feels all is
moving right in Scotland. We are
thankful for his spirit and influence.
Tours very truly,

Elias L. T. Habbison.

ENGLAND.

Lteds, February 25, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— I returned from the Hull
Conference on Saturday evening, where
I left brothers Cromar and Halls.
The Saints were feeling first-rate, erjoying
the Spirit of the Lord, and striving to live
their religion. Yesterday we had two
good meetings in this place.

The Saints are feeling well, with one
or two exceptions. One man took
offence yesterday, because I wished those
who were in the habit of drinking liquor
to keep off the stand on the Sabbath, when
their breath smelled ; and in a few hours
after meeting he sent President Shires a
note, acoompanied by his Elder's License,
and a penny for his Star, stating that he
had burnt up his " hymn-book 1 ' and all
other works that he had, and would burn
the * Book of Mormon" as soon as he
could "find it."

Oh! when will men learn that in
rejecting their own salvation they them-
selves alone are the sufferers? What a
wonderful influence the Devil has over
men when they once give way to the
wickedness that is in them ! That which
yesterday was lovely and dear to them,
to<day is hateful and obnoxious. Yet
truth is the same for ever : it is man that
changes.

I received a letter from brother Clarke,
Sheffield Conference, informmg me that
on Monday last five persons were added
to the Church by baptism, and the Saints
were generally feeling well. I am happy
to say that there are many in this Dis-

Digitized by

158

8UKMABT.

trict, once in the faith, who are very
anxious to return to the fold as soon as
-"circumstances will permit.* However,
I would like to see people make circum-
stances bend to that particular object, and
not wait for the "due time of the
Lord!"

Praying for the prosperity of Zion, am&
the blessings of heaven and earth to at*
tend the faithful in God's kingdom,
I subscribe myself your affectionate
brother,

Joseph F. Surra.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GnrsiUL. — The Moniteur says the treaty for the cession of Men tone and Ronquebnmc
to France was signed with tho Prince of Monaco on the 2nd of February. A treaty ha*
been concluded between Holland and Slam. The treaty between Russia and China, which,
was signed at PeUn on the 14th of November, cedes to Russia the seaboard between the
rivers Amoor and Tnmen. Chilian has been cYacuated by the Allies. A des trn e U Sn
hurricane has passed over the island of Java. An offieial despatoh from Mostar says that
<on the 28th the Montenegrins! with a band of Insurgents from the neighbouring Tillages,
which they keep In a state of revolt, had surprised several Tillage* in the district of
Biestch, and behaved with the utmost cruelty and atrocity towards the peaceable Moasal-
snan inhabitants, killing altogether forty-one persons, of whom ten were children and
three women, A second band attacked the chief town Carianitz, assassinated several
people, burned many houses, and behaved with the greatest ferocity and cruelty towards
the inhabitants.

Av vbioak. — The Texas State Convention has passed an ordinance favouring the speedjy
formation of a 8outhern Confederacy. Preparations for attacking Fort Sumter were
feeing continued at Charleston. 1,200 troops at Pensaoola were threatening an Attack
on Fort Pickens. Private advices from Montgomery state that arrangements have been
made for a loan of $14,000,000, to be concluded by the 1st of March, when the Southern
Confederacy will have fifty rifled pieces for the field, for the purpose of resisting coer-
don. A considerable number of vessels, principally engaged in the lumber trade, hava
been wrecked on the coast of British Columbia.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING,

Chihssh BaiDoaa.— There are stone bridges in China three miles in length.

How to Make ▲ Smoklbss Fibs — Before throwing on coals, pull all the fire to the
front of the grate towards the bars, fill up the cavity at the back with the cinders of
ashes which will be found under the grate, and then throw on the coals. The gas evolve* la
the process of roasting the coals will be absorbed by* the cinders, rendering them in an
increased degree combustible. The smoke will thus be burnt, and a fine glowing and
smokeless fire will be the result.

Eably Customs.— In the fourteenth century, the shops In Paris were universally open
at four o'clock in the morning. At that period, the King of Prance dined at eight in the
morning, and retired to his chamber at the same hour in the evening. In the time el
Henry the VIII. of England, seven in the morning was the fashionable breakfast bear;
ten that of dinner. In the reign of his daughter Elisabeth, the higher classes, students,
&c, dined at eleven, and supped between five and six.

Mathematics — Mathematics is the science of quantity— its proportions and relation*
and comprises three branches— arithmetic, algebra, and geometry; arithmetic being the
science of numbers, and the art of performing calculations thereby ; algebra, the method
of solving problems, or investigating the relations of quantises, by means of letters and
signs; and geometry, that branch which treats of magnitude— its proportions and rela-
tions. Mathematics is of two kinds— pure and mixed. In pure mathematics, quantUiea
are considered independently of any substances actually existing : in mixed mathematics*
the relations of quantities are investigated in connection with some of the properties of
matter, or with reference to the common transactions of business.

Digitized by

Mftll, it to ft proof that the animal was living; but if it appears higher and above the
«yster, H was dead before it was opened, and is consequently unwholesome and unfit for
food.

44 Foolscap."— Among the numerous monopolies which Charles I. granted for the sup-
port of his government, was the privilege of manufacturing paper. The watermark of
the finest sort was the royal arms of England. The consumption of this article was
great at this time, and large fortunes were made by those who had purchased the exclu-
sive right to make and vend it. This, among other monopolies, was set aside by the
Parliament that brought Charles to the scaffold ; and by way of showing their contempt
fer the king, they ordered the royal arms to be taken from the paper, and a feol, with his
cap and bells, to be substituted. It is now more than 175 years since the fool's cap and
bells were taken from the paper ; but still paper of the sise whioh the Rump Parliament
ordered for their journals bears the name (" foolscap") of the watermark then ordered aa
an Indignity to Charles.

Champ.— The cramp may often be prevented by forcing the heel down and the toes up
immediately on feeling the symptom approach.

Fable.— A gonrd had wound itself around a lofty palm, and in a few weeks elimbed to
its very top. " How old mayest thou be ?" asked the new comer. " About a hundred
years." M About a hundred years, and no taller ! Only look ; I have grown as tall as
yon in fewer days than you can count years." "I know that well," replied the palm.
*' Every year of my life a gourd has climbed up round me, as proud as thou art, and aa
short- lived as thou wilt be."

IvTBxnoir pob Dispelling Rain.— There is now before the Academy of Sciences at
4Paris a wonderful invention of Monsieur Helvetins Otto, of Leipsic, by which he promises
to insure fine weather. In fact, by making use of his invention, rain cannot fall unless
desired. His plan is simple enough. He erects a platform at a considerable height in
4he air, on whieh he places a " propeller," or huge bellows, worked by steam. With
these bellows, which are very powerful, he blows away the clouds as they gather; and
as rain comes from the clouds, it must necessarily follow that where clouds are not
allowed to gather, there can be no rain. He maintains that if a certain number of hie
"rain-propellers," or M pluvifuges," as he has named them, are placed at intervals over-
-the city, he can provide for the inhabitants a continuance of fine weather, and a certain
protection from sudden showers and muddy streets, so long the terror of fair pedestrians.
The Academy has received the proposition of Monsieur Otto with acclamation.

A Neobo Sbbmok. — " My tex, bruderen and sisteren, will be foun' in de fus chapter
ob Genesis, and de twenty-seben verse : — ' So de Lor' make man.' Now, my bruderen,
you, see dat in de beginnin* ob de world de Lor' make Adam. I tole you how he make
him : be make *im out ob clay, an' he sot 1m on a board, an' he look at him, an' he say
« Pas- rate f an' when he get dry, he brethe in 1m de breff of life. He put him in de
garden of Eden, and he sot 1m in one corner ob de lot, an' he tole him to eat all de
apples, 'ceptin' dem in de middle ob de orchard: dem he wanted for winter-apples.
Bym-by, Adam he get loneiome. So de Lor' make Ebe. I told yon how he make her.
He gib Adam lodnum, till he git sound 'sleep ; den he gonge a rib out de side, and make
2£be ; an' he set Ebe in de corner ob de garden, an' he tole her to eat all de apples, 'ceptin,*
•dem in de middle ob de orchard : dem he want for winter-apples* Wan day, de Lor 9 go
out a tnsitin': de Debbil come along : he dress hisself in de skin ob snake, and he find
Ebe, an' he tole her — 'Ebe I why you no eat de apple in de middle ob de orchard ¥ Ebe
any — 'Bern de Lor's winter-apples.' But de Debbil say — * I tole you for to eat dem*
*eos dey's de best apples in de orchard.' So Ebe eat de apple, an* gib Adam a bite; an 9
<ie Debbil go away. Bym-by, de Lor' cum home, an' he miss de winter-apples ; an' he
call — ' Adam ! you Adam!' Adam he lay low; so de Lor* call again— 'Ton Adamt*
Adam say— 'Hey, Lor?* And de Lor* say— 'Who stole de winter-apples?* Adam tola
Mm he don't know; Ebe, he 'spec! So de Lor' call— 'Ebe!' Ebe, she lay low. Da
Xor* call again— 'Ton Ebe!' Ebe say— 'Hey, Lor?' De Lor* say— 'Who stole de
winter-apples ¥ Ebe told him she don't know ; Adam, she 'spec ! So de Lor' cotch 'em.
#>ofe, and he trow dem ober de fence, an' he told 'em, ' Go Work for your Ubbing I' "

VARIETIES.

POETRY. — MONiCf LIST.

Whe5 & a Man Bwh Enough ?~ Whan a lad» an old man took tbo tyraohl+ifrvtetth
me some little knowledge of the world. "With this view, I remember be one d»y asked *
me, When is a man rich enough 7" I replied, " When he has a thousand pounds." Ha ^
aaid,^No." " Two thousand?" "No." « Ten thousand 7* "No* " A hundred thou- :
sand ?" which I thought would hare settled the business; but be atiU> continued to aay,
" No." 1 gave it up, and confessed that I could not tell, but begged that he would ,
inform me. He gravely said, M When he has a little more, than be has, and that m never t •
1( he acquires one thousand, he wishes to have two thousand; then five, then f.w«aty, then,
fifty: from that his riches would mount to one hundred thousand, and toypa till l*ex,
had grasped the whole world ; after which, he would look about' him, like ^Wt&caader, for.
other worlds to' possess." Many a proof hare I had of the old gentlemen's remark* «ino« .
he made them to me.

POETBY.

CHRIST'S SECOND ADVENT.

What joy exists among the Gods ?
What songs of praises angels sing ?
Jesus, once slain by godless men,
Heturns to earth to reign as King.

r jO^tf^? exuitijig tee; his " sign"—
The prbphets'hafl him with delight;
The heavens seem decked with golden robes—
the earth is fun o£ heavenly light.

, 'Belfast* * •

J - i u \'. ; i— : — .

No more shall sinful monarch* rule,
- Nor prophets lose their precious blood ;
l)axk sin and tyrant death shall flee
Before the coming of our God.

Than peace and love will spresjl thefr pow*^
Among the sons of men abroad, •
Ajid all the earth shall join to sing, '
*' Jesus is now Our sovereign Lent I*'

TaoMAS CrAWLcr. *

MONEY LIST, JAN U A BY

John J. Wafus ............... 10

Thomas Crawley .« lis

<?rW. Penrose z 1 19

Joseph Silver .... 3 10 9£

B. F. Cook • 16 8

John dark..: ; 2 7 2

Jumes D. Itlrst w 16 6

H.Dunea* .—.^ ...,.. v ..*. 2 10 - 8

W.flopwood .............. .. 6 6

Aarpn 'Nelson ... 1 10

William «rPitts.'. 12 6

ThonxA Mumford *. 17 10

8,. H^Bi Smith.- « 3 6

John Redington 110

E. L. T. fiarrison 1 18 6

W. T.^romar « O 17 0*

Ceorge Reed ... 1 15 04

Edward Hanham 3 16 2*

John Reed f 4 8 2

J. Stanford ; 10

Wines Herder „ 2 8 3

1— FEBBUABV 11, 1861.

Brought forward...

John Cook...... mM . w M

H. W. Barnett i.......*

William Moss

John H. Kelson

Edward Held w „

Abraham Orme... ,

Thomas Uex.... te . M . MM ......

Mark Barnes—..,....,...

W. H. Dame

C. W. Penrose

B, Bently.

8. Hargrove*
Charles Turner ,
John C. Graham ........

John Griffiths

John Davles ... M . M ...,„
Edwin Price

E. Burgoyne ,

W. gtslett.

David Davies.........^..

-£37 13
.. 14
..Of?
M 3 ir
» 1 3
H 3 1!

*. « e

..12
17

<►

e •

18" 9
18 8#

1- 3
1 4
3 15
018
8

1 6 8£
• WIT
7*

0* •
S
9

Carried forward......jeiJ7 13 7}

£Vi 15 H)*

CONTENTS.

The Restitution of All Things „ M 144

Live Your Religion „..„ 147

History of Joseph Smith 150

Editorial.— Power of the Elders for Good or
Evu— Unvirjuous Conduct, Marriage, &c.—
Abstract of News from the Conferences ...... 153

Correspondence. — America — Peseret : Letter
from Elder ii. A. Smith .—Scotland : Letter

from Elders Te&sdale and Harrisons-
land : Letter from Eider J. F» Smith .,
Snmmary of News and Passing Events...,

Things Worth Remembering ..,

Varieties ■<

Poetry ^-Christ's Second Advent ..........

Money List , m '. m

ill

158

. 159

LIVERPOOL :

Edited ani» published bt geohoe canhov, 42, i&CWGTON. 1
LONDON:

rpa IAXE AT Til* LATTER BAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STBKKT, CROSS 8TJLE ITj ISLLXOTQ^
; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

r HINTED *Y JAMBS AND NiniXW, 51, SOfTU JOHN STREET, LIVERPOOL*

Digitized by

THB LATTER-DAT 8AINT8*

MILLENNIAL STAR.

**A noise shall eonxe even to the ends of the earth $ for the Lord hath a eoutr&verep with the natUnae
he trill plead with all fiesk ; he will give them that are wicked to the meord, eaith the Lord,"^
Jb&smiab.

• Wo. 11, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, March 16, 1861. Price One Penny.

UNBELIEF IN GOB'S INTEREST IN NATIONS— HIS
JUDGMENTS YET TO BE POURED OUT,

• In a previous Number of the Star (No.
T) we briefly touched opon the causes
Which have been operating: to hasten the
dissolution of the United States, and
winch have- been sapping the foundation
of that Government for years. The ob-
server* nf events now in progress in that
land, who Jook from the stand-point
usually taken by the world, cannot admit
that the- great; republic has already
reached thenenkh of its glory and power,
enlthnt the dissemloneiKow agitating the
notion are the precursor* of its retre-
gvessMn and downfall. They look
tkrottgh history in vain to find » a parallel
ejf sanation making snch^a progress add
nattering? such glorious resulte in to fbrief
ajpsrieoVaiid experiencing eo rapM ade-
o^eaaton as new threatens the 'United
Skate*. Not 'finding the paraHel, tnanr
oanriade, dfespifte altthe indmtlos^^wtteh*
sp nnnnstakeably betoken trouble *«d
<fcf&*dhie* of mo jordinary cbnneote*, that
fJHf n fe )efca<gfor**is ifnture fcretowfnr
t^a4nMl^iri|tabKo^i«l that ivwill
njnranji .from-ahe(gtrnggle wWoh 4s<mw'
cew-viinsilMpityawigfa^
fctotamunpovit, . , « 1

\ Mm »f-sftiir elate i entirely )|SDore in'
fta&ehonghlfcheytmejmia h^^
ftasAnnian rennet dhafriirii timgiaivtU 1
dnesrvcaf tthe tftipnenie vjfafcng, mlfc+tai
yt&mmtmd ^e^e^^i^nfca^Akr^
at the nations of the earth. The disno.

sitk>n to confine the Great Creator to thfr
heavens, and not to acknowledge his in-
tervention in the rise and fall of nations,
is very prevalent indeed among all classes.
When a nation falls, what are termed
* natural * causes " are sought for and
pointed to as the means of its destruction.
God is scarcely thought about in the
matter, or, if thought about, is not sup*'
posed to have had any agency in pro-
ducing or effecting such results. W e can
give no better illustration of the wide-

3 tread infidelity on this subject than by
ting tiie case of the United (States, which
is now before our eyes. How many of
ail the speakers, editors, and writers of
the Christian nations of Great Britain
and America, who have lately -spoken and
written eo much about the timsfon now
y taking place in the United 'States, have
acknowledged the hand of the Lord in
What is transpiring, t>r hare even alluded
toihinrm any way as having the slightest
•ere or interest m the affairs of that peo-
ple? £ Hew toany. of 'those whose entire
welfare intimately associated with and
dependent npon the sttbhlty and pros-
perity "Of ^that ! Oeverntnent have * looked
/deeper "than the surface for the causes?
wJnWture 'Ihteatenlng 4ts overthrow, or
hwea %ia#ihe£> for >a moment that there
iwasitneh a Being as «od who beatoweth
* m* m whertnvieneeaed tnr«rrjrimthhi
i dev^nd withdiaweth it when tyftpqp*

Digitized by

162

UNBELIEF IN GOD'S INTEREST IN NATIONS, ETC.

poses will be better accomplished thereby ?
The proverb of the Romans was—** Whom
the gods would destroy, they first make
mad;" but " Christian" Englishmen and
Americans cannot make so broad an ad-
mission respecting the Being they profess
to worship. They fail to recognize the
hand of God in the madness that seizes
upon nations and rulers, and hurries
them blindly into the commission of acts
evidently suicidal ; or to perceive that he
has withdrawn his Spirit and protecting
care from them. In this respect they are
far behind the pagans of antiquity ; for,
however erroneous their ideas were re-
specting the character and attributes of
the Supreme Governor of the universe,
they nevertheless appeared to fully believe
that the affairs of the earth occupied
some share of his care and attention.

Having, then, so little faith in God's in-
terposition in the affairs of nations, it is
not surprising that there should be so
great a reluctance on the part of this
generation to receive and place reliance
in the /revelation given to the Prophet
Joseph Smith, December 25th, 1832, con-
cerning the wars that were to come upon
the earth. Our readers will remember
we embodied that important revelation in
the article in No. 7, previously alluded to.
Any one whose mind is not completely
closed to all the influences of truth, and
entirely devoid of faith in God, upon pe-
rusing it at the present time, must be
struck with wonder that it should be re-
ceived with such apathy and indifference
by those who ought to be so much inte-
rested in it. This generation denounce
the Jews with unsparing severity for their
w ilful rejection of the prophecies of an
Isaiah, a. Jeremiah, and other inspired
men, and affect to wonder at the unbelief
exhibited in the rejection of their wise
counsels and warnings ;- but there is no
longer any foundation for their wonder, on
this point. They themselves are living
instances of similar unbelief. Had they
made the unbelieving Jews of the
days of the Prophets, or the Pharisees
who were oontemporary with the Saviour
and his Apostles, the prototypes whose
example they studied and carefully strove
10 imitate, they could not have been more
like those unbelievers than they are.

They read the pages of sacred history
with no other feeling than that of wonder
at the blindness of the people in passing by
unnoticed plain, and pointed rereUtiw,

which were afterwards literally fulfilled.
They read, and are not surprised, that
God should reveal beforehand his judg-
ment upon Solomon and his house for his
worship of strange gods, and his aban-
donment of the pnnciples of righteousness.
They see nothing inconsistent in his declar-
ing, while Solomon yet lived, that he would
rend the kingdom out of the hand of Solo-
mon, and give ten tribes to his servant ;
or in his revealing his purposes, on that
account, to his servant Ahijah, concern-
ing the dissolution of the union of the
twelve tribes of Israel, and the secession
of ten of the tribes under Jeroboam from
the confederacy; or in his permitting
Rehoboam to forsake the counsel of the
old men, (when their counsel, if followed,
would have conceded to the dissatisfied
what they required, and kept the king-
dom together,) and to adopt the counsel
given by the young men, which had pre-
cisely the effect foretold by the Lord — the
rebellion -of ten tribes. They see nothing
strange in all this. Of course, the Lord
could manifest interest in the fate of that
nation and other nations then ; but now
he is believed by the orthodox to be in the
condition that Elijah mockingly said Baal
was— either on a journey or sleeping.

The revelation received by the Prophet
Joseph Smith, alluded to above, was not
the first intimation which the Lord save
to him of the fate that should befafthe
United States and the other nations of
the earth. In that revelation the Lord
said that South Carolina should rebel,
that the Southern States should be
divided against the Northern States, and
that war should be poured out upon all
nations, beginning at South Carolina^
In the Book of Mormon, published m
1830, nearly three years before this reve-
lation was received, the Lord plainly fore-
shadowed what the fate of the United
States would be when his Gospel should
be revealed in their midst. If they ac-
cepted the Gospel which he would send
unto them, they were to be numbered
among his people of the house of Israel,
and were no more to be brought down
into captivity. Their government was to
be amended, recogmoed, and upheld by
the Almighty, and was to become the
nucleus of the mightiest power that had
ever been built up on the earth — a power
which should overshadow every land and
prevail over every other form of govern-
ment known ajnomr men, under whjoh

Digitized by

UNBELIEF IK GOD'S INTEREST IN NATIONS, ETC.

163

the people of every nation, kindred,
•and tongue might take refuge from
tyranny, and dwell in peace and safety,
enjoying the most extended liberty.
Every enemy that should arise against
-them was to he confounded, and they
"were to be a blessed people upon the con-
tinent of America for ever. These were
'some of the blessings which the people
and Government of the United States
had held out to them, on condition of
their acceptance of the message sent unto
them by the Lord. But if they rejected
this message and made war against those
"who received it, woes and cursings
equally great as their blessings otherwise
-would have been were to befal them.
They were to be divided asunder and turned
•one against another, they were to war
among themselves, and the sword of their
i>wn hands was to fall upon their own heads.
And when in this condition, weakened
toy civil war, and no longer a united
powerful people, but a number of factions,
then were " the remnants who are left of
-the land" to marshal themselves, and to
become exceedingly angry, and vex them
with a sore vexation, and to go through
-among them " as a lion among the beasts
of the forest, and as a young lion among
flocks of sheep, who, if he goeth through,
both treadeth down and teareth in pieces,
and none can deliver." Their cities were
to be destroyed, their strongholds thrown
down, and ail their pleasant places
defaced.

In perusing these predictions after the
-lapse of thirty years from their publica-
tion, an unprejudiced, candid reader must
be struck with their perspicuity and force.
'Had the Prophet Joseph been writing
now with the full knowledge of the events
that are at present transpiring, he could
not have written more definitely and with
greater plainness than he has in his trans-
lation of the Book of Mormon on these
points. Future generations, when they
-read the history of what is now taking
place, and the prophecies uttered by him
respecting these events, will think that
'the generation who would reject such
testimonies and warnipgs as he gave, with
the palpable evidences of their truth in-
creasing on every hand, must have been be-
Teftof their faculty of exercising their senses.
In fact, even now a person well acquainted
with the news of the day, upon reading
'the revelation which the Lord gave
-through him respecting 'the wars that

j were to be poured out upon all nations,
J must be forced to the acknowledgement
' that there is every prospect of his predic-
tions being fulfilled so far as war iiself
is concerned. Let what is said in that
revelation and in the Book of Mormon
respecting the United States be placed in
juxtaposition with the following extracts
from an article in one of the most-popular
and widely-circulated American papers, on
the dangers that threaten that country,
and the unavoidable conclusion of every
reflecting, clear-sighted, and unprejudiced
man must be that but a short period can
elapse, according to every appearance,
before they will be fulfilled. The, Editor
says : —

"Ultra counsels at the South and the
rabid fury of extremists at the north onoe
more menace the country with disaster.
Civil war and its attendant horrors can only
be averted bj prompt and speedy action on
the part of the incoming administration.
Compare the speech of President Davis at
Montgomery with the caucus proceedings of
Congressional Republicans at Washington,
and the inevitable conclusion must be ar-
rived at, that inter-State hostilities are im-
pending, if the sentiments they inculcate
represent, to any extent, the views of the
masses of the people in the North and at the
South."

Mr. Jefferson Davis, who has been
elected President of the Southern Con-
federacy ,*has been known as a Union man.

"He now appeals, however, to the sword,
and devotes his military services to the
welfare of the six States over which he baa
been called on to preside, as though a
'baptism in blood' of the Southern Con-
federacy were the only hope he entertained
of maintaining its integrity. He even
throws away the scabbard and exclaims—
' The time for compromises is passed, and
we are determined to maintain our position,
and make all who oppose us smell Southern
powder and feel Southern steel. No com-
promise, no reconstruction can any longer
be entertained.' . . . Meanwhile, bayo-
nets bristle, cavalry prance, and the heavy
tread of artillery is heard on Pennsylvania
avenue; and, under the auspices of the
Fessendens, Stunners, Wades, Hales, and
Greeleys of the Abolitionist party at the
North, every nerve is strained to force Mr.
Lincoln into actively aggressive measures
against the seceding States. . . . There
never was a moment in the history of the
United States when time was of so much
value. The errors or inadvertencies of a
moment may precipitate events beyond the*.

Digitized by

164

UNBELIEF IN GOD'S INTEREST IN NATIONS, ETC*

possibility of a remedy. Yet day by day
passes by, and the country gazes with
stupefaction at the apathy, inactivity, and
Ignorance of those who are entrusted with
their most sacred interests. If the Crit-
t amendments to the constitution had
i adopted by Congress a few weeks ago,
am instant stop would have been put to the
progress of the disunion contagion in the
ootton States. Tbat -chance was allowed to
pass away. The Border Peace Conference
was then convened ; but its members have
unfortunately been selected from among the
most antiquated fossils of the land — men
behind the time and unequal to its
requirements. They have accomplished
nothing, and their efforts ean effect no
permanent good. They are afraid of the
sounds of their own voices, and have
refused to permit their deliberations to be
known to the pnblic. They have the cob-
fidence of no one, and no plan of com-
promise they can suggest will be accepted.
Neither will the present Congress -do aught
to dispel the tempest that threatens to
ingulf us. The shiftless imbecility, in-
capacity, stupidity, together with the gross
venality /of the Senate and House of Re-
presentative*, have literally filled every cor-
ner of the republic with amazement. The
Republican majority see the nation drifting
towards a precipice, but can imagine no
higher aim than to squabble for place and
apportion spoils, whieh, if they are not
earefoi, will never come into their hands.
43an anything be more horrible? In the
annals of history — in the darkest periods of
Rome, the Italian republics of the middle
ages, or even in the convulsed epoch at
which Mexico has arrived — does there exist
the parallel of a nation, at the height of its
prosperity, surrounded by erery external
and rejoicing in every internal essential of
happiness, plunging its future destiny, its
'Wealth, fair fame, and the hopes humanity
had founded upon it, into a more hopeless
abyss of ruin, desolation, and misery. The
vrind shrinks with dismay from the hu-
miliating prospect before us. . . . It
1* painfully true that an unnatural, fac-
titious outside pressure of revolutionists
In both sections is compelling those whom
they have entrusted with power to bury out
of sight their proclivities for peace. Abo-
lition fanatics and fire-eating mobocrats
have possession of the portals of Janus,
and they are resolved that its gates shall be
closed. . . . The latest stages of the
revolution have been colossal In their foot-
steps, and historical experience shows that
passions and purpose of political change
wuce Unloosed, outstrip in consummation
toie keenest imaginations of those even who
ilave Inspired them and given them birth."

This is the fearful picture that presents-
itself before the people of the United
States at the present time. Even the
chances that remain of bringing about a
peaceable solution of the difficulties have
not been taken advantage of ; precious
time has been wasted in fruitless discus-
sion, and every hour that passes hurries
them nearer to the brink of the precipice.
Wisdom has fled from the councils or the
nation, and it is a cause of lamentation
on the part of many that there is no
statesman that seems capable of rising to
the greatness of the occasion, or that
can suggest a remedy in the emergency.
Just as sure as the revelations and pro-
phecies have been so far fulfilled con-
I cerning the rebellion of South Carolina
' and the division of the United States, so
! sure will the remainder respecting the
| war? that shall take place, the insurrection
of the slaves against their masters, and
J the descent of the Indians upon the
j divided and distracted nation be fulfilled.
| Yet who takes warning by what has
I taken place ? They who have rejected
| the Gospel and the salvation which it
i proffered cannot or will not see what the
present events are hurrying them to.
They see nothing to-day but what they
flatter themselves will be better to-morrow;,
and they will continue to delude them*
selves with this hope until they are over-
taken by destruction. The mind shrinks
with horror from the contemplation of
the scenes that must ensue if the present
course be persisted in by that nation.
The horrors of civil war are sufficiently
fearful ; but when to these are added the
breaking loose of a maddened servile
population, whose lust and passion know
no bounds, and who contemn every law
of warfare to which the civilized and
superior race conform, and the descent of
the Indians — a pitiless race with no more
disposition to grant mercy to the foes in
their power than has the wild beast — a
race which, when among the objects of
their wrath, the Lord compares to a young
Hon among slocks of sheep, (a most
terrific yet truthful comparison,) the pros-
pect is appalling. '

The rebellion of South Carolina was to
be the first great step. It was to be a
noticeable event — a beacon standing out
nionunently beyond other events asa warn-
ing of what was to follow. It was to he
the beginningof wars which should spread
until all nations should be involved in

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

1G5

deadly strife; therefore it is as great a
fagn to this generation of what is to
follow as was the compassing of the city
of Jerusalem with armies a sign t^ the
■ Jews that its destruction was at band.

The view now presented to mankiad is
-& fearful one to contemplate ; and when
we see event after event taking place pre-
cisely as foretold, a feeling of sorrow takes
possession of us for blind, infatuated man,
-who persistently closes his eyes and ears
to everything that would warn him of his
peril. The way of escape that is provided
is plain : every nation might obtain deli-
verance thereby, if they would. But it is
to be feared that they will not. A com-
paratively few individuals in each may
receive the warning and accept the prof-
fered refuge from the storm that will ere
long sweep the surface of the earth. No
nation can escape this storm who reject
the message sent unto them. It will rage
until, with bloodshed, famine, plague,
earthquakes, and the thunder and the fiery
and vivid lightning of heaven, the consump-
tion decreed hath made a full end of all na-
tions, — until the sword of God's justice
shall fall upon all the nations of the
<fcntiles who repent not.

The same Prophet who has so clearly
foretold, by the inspiration of the At
mighty, what is now taking place, has also*
foretold the above judgments. That man-
kind might be fully warned respecting
them, God has sent forth has servants to>
make them known, that all may be left;
without excuse,^ and that those who* will
receive the warning may escape by fleeing
to the place prepared as a sanctuary of
refuge. The same generation which wit-
nessed the commencement of this labour
of warning was to witness the fulfilment
of many of the threatened penalties.
Men were standing in that generation
who were not to pass away until they
should see wars, earthquakes, sickn o a a»
and other overflowing scourges covering'
the land with desolation, and causing
many among the wicked to lift up their
voices and curse God and die. They
were also to witness the blessings of the
Lord descending upon the righteous who
should obey the warning and flee front
among the wicked ; for a temple was to
be reared in that generation unto the
Lord, upon which a cloud should rest,
even the glory of the Lord, which should
fill the house.

HISTOET OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 153.)

[March, 1844.]

Monday, 25th. At home in the morn-
ing. After dinner, rode up to the
upper landing to see the St. Louis Oak
steamer. Learned that a company of
emigrants from England were expected
soon. Called at my office on returning,
and heard read the draft of a Memorial
to Congress which my clerk had been
writing, as a committee appointed by
the Council on Thursday last, and was
pleased with the instrument.

Millions of wild pigeons flying north,
and millions of gnats dancing in the air.
Dull day. At night, thunder, lightning,
and rain.

Tuesday, 26th. Dull day. From 9
to 12, noon, in Council ; also from 2 to
b p.m.

The memorial drawn up by Dr. Rich-
ards was read, discussed, and approved
\j the General Council.

Started this morning to go to Ba
with brother Amasa Lyman. Rode an
far as the Temple, and found it so muddy
that we turned back.

Issued a warrant on the complaint of
Vernon H. Bruce, against Ianthus Rolfe*
for stealing two stone-cutter's tools.

I wrote the following : —

"To the Honourable the Senate and House
of Representatives of the United States oC
America, in Congress assembled :

Tour memorialist, a free-born citizen
of these United States, respectfully shewatn
that from his infancy his goal has been filled
with the most intense and philanthropic
interest for the welfare of his native
country; and beiDg fired with an ardour
which floods cannot quench, crowns cannot
conquer, nor diplomatic intrigue corrupt,
to see those principles which emanated
from the bosoms of the fathers of seventy-
six, and which cost the noblest talents and
richest blood of the nation, maintained

Digitized by

Google

166

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

inviolate and perpetuated to future genera-
tions; and the proud eagle^of American
freedom soar triumphant over every partj
prejudice and local sinistry, and spread her
golden pinions over every member of the
human family, Who shall stretch forth their
hands for succour from the lion's paw or
the oppressor's grasp; and firmly trusting in
the God of liberty, that he has designed
universal peace and goodwill, union, and
brotherly love to all the great family of
man, your memorialist asks your honourable
body to pass the following

ORDINANCE.

An Ordinance for th§ protection of the citizens
of the United States emigrating to the
adjoining Territories, and for the ex-
tension of the principles of universal
liberty.

PREAMBLE.

Whereas many of the citizens of these
United States have migrated and are mi-
grating to Texas, Oregon, and other lands
contiguous to this nation ; and whereas
Texas has declared herself free and inde-
pendent, without the necessary power to |
protect her rights and liberties ; and whereas I
Oregon is without any organized govern-
ment, and those who emigrate thither are
exposed to foreign invasion and domestic
feuds ; and whereas the Oregon, by geogra-
phical location and discovery more rightfully
belongs to these United States than to any
other general government ; and whereas it
Is necessary that the emigrants of that
newly settling territory should receive pro-
tection; and whereas the Texian Govern-
ment has petitioned the United States to be
* received into our Union, but yet retains her
national existence ; and wliereas the United
States remember with gratitude the season-
able support they received in a like situation
from a La Fayette ; and whereas the United
States desire to see the principles of her free
institutions extended to all men, especially
where it can be done without the loss of
blood and treasure to the nation; and
whereas there is an almost boundless extent
of territory on the west and south of these
United States, where exists little or no
organization of protective Government;
and whereas the lands thus unknown,
unowned, or unoccupied, are among some of
the richest and most fertile of the continent;
€md whereas many of the inhabitants of
the Union would gladly embrace the oppor-
tunity of extending their researches and
acquirements so soon as they can receive
protection in their enterprise, thereby
-adding strength, durability, and wealth to

the nation ; and whetcas the red man, the.
robber, and the desperado have frequently "
interrupted such research and acquisition
without justifiable cause; and whereas
Joseph Smith has offered and does hereby
offer these United States, to show his loyalty
to our Confederate Union and the Constitut-
ion of our Republic; to prevent quarrel
and bloodshed on our frontiers; to extend*
the arm of deliverance to Texas ; to pro-
tect the inhabitants of Oregon from foreign
aggression and domestic, broils ; to prevent
the crowned nations from encircling us as a
nation on our western and southern bor-
ders, and save the eagle's talon from the
lion's paw; to still the tongue of slander,
and show the world that a Republic can be,
and not be ungrateful ; to open the vast :
regions of the unpeopled west and sonth to
our enlightened and enterprising jeomanry y
to protect them in their researches; to secure
them in their locations, and thus strengthen
the Government and enlarge her borders ; to
extend her influence ; to inspire the nation*
with the spirit of freedom and win them to her
standard ; to promote intelligence ; to cul-
tivate and establish peace among all with
whom we may have Intercourse as neigh-
bours ; to settle all existing difficulties
among those not organized into an
acknowledged government bordering upon-'
the United States and Territories j
to save tho national revenue in the
nation's coffers ; to supersede the necessity
of a standing army on our western and
southern frontiers ; to create and maintain
the principles of peace and suppress mobs,
insurrections, and oppression in Oregon and
all lands bordering upon the United State*
and not incorporated into any acknow-
ledged national government ; to explore the
unexplored regions of our continent; to
open new fields for enterprise to our citizens^
and protect them therein ; to search out the
antiquities of the land, and thereby pro*
mote the arts and sciences, and general
information; to amalgamate the feelinga
of all with whom he may have intercourse
on the principles of equity, liberty*,
justice, humanity, and benevolence; to
break down tyranny and oppression,
and exalt the standard of universal peace;
provided he shall be protected in those-
rights and privileges which constitutionally
belong to every citizen of this Republic-
therefore, that the said memorialist may
have the privilege, and that no citizen of
the United States shall obstruct, or attempt
to obstruct or hinder, so good, so great, so
noble an enterprise to carry out those plana
and principles as set forth in this preamble*
and be shielded from every opposition by
evil and designing men: —

Sec. 1. Be it ordained hy the Senate one?

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

167

Souse of Representatives of the United
States of America^ in Congress assembled,
that Joseph Smith, of the oity of Nauvoo, in
the State of Illinois, is hereby authorized
and empowered to raise a company of one
hundred thousand armed volunteers in the
United States and Territories, at such times
and places, and in such numbers, as he shall
find necessary and convenient for the pur-
poses specified in the foregoing preamble,
and to execute the same.

Sec 2. And be it further ordained that if
any person or persons shall hinder or attempt
to hinder or molest the said Joseph Smith
from executing his designs in raising said
Tolunteers, and marching or transporting the
same to the borders of the United States
and Territories, he or they so hindering,
molesting, or offending, shall be punished
by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars
each for every offence, or by hard labour on
some publio work not exceeding two years,
or both, at the discretion of the nearest
District Court of the United States, where
the hindrance or offence shall be committed,
having jurisdiction.

8ec. 3. And be it further ordained, the
more fully to remove all obstructions and
hindrances to the raising, enlisting, and
inarching the volunteers as aforesaid, the
■aid Joseph Smith is hereby constituted a
member of the army of these United States,
and is authorized to act as such in the
United States and Territories, and on all
lands bordering upon the United States and
Territories, for the purposes specified in the
foregoing preamble, provided said land shall
not be within the acknowledged jurisdiction
of any acknowledged national government.

8ec. 4. And be it further ordained that
nothing in this ordinance shall be so con-
strued by any individual or nation as to
consider the volunteers aforesaid as con-
stituting any part of the army of the United
States; neither shall the said Joseph Smith,
as a member of the United Stctes* army,
disturb the peace of any nation or govern-
ment acknowledged as such, break the faith
of treaties between the United States and
another nation, or violate any known law
of nations, thereby endangering the peace
of the United States.

Sec. 5. And be it further ordained that
the said Joseph Smith shall confine his
operations to those principles of aotion
specified in the preamble to this ordinance,
the perpetuity of which shall be commen-
surate with the circumstances and specifica-
tions which have originated it.

And your memorialist will ever pray, <kc.

Joseph Smith.

City of Nauvoo, Illinois,
March 26, 1844.

[To be continued J

Dr. Willard Richards wrote to the
Saints at Augusta, Lee County, Iowa,
requesting a brief history of the settling
of that Branch, and also asking a dona-
tion of lumber for his house.

In the afternoon, AbiatharB. Williams
made the following affidavit before Daniel
H. Wells, Esq.

"State of Illinois, )
Hancock County, > '

Personally appeared before me, Daniel H.
Wells, Acting Justice of the Peace in and
for the said county, Abiathar B. Williams,,
who, being duly sworn according to law,
deposeth and saith that on or about the
15th day of March, a.d., 1844, Joseph H.
Jackson came to my house and requested
me to walk with him; which I did. Daring
the time we were walking, said Joseph H.
Jackson said that he was then coming direct
from Mr. Laws ; that there was going to be*
a secret meeting in the city of Nauvoo,.
probably to-morrow evening : but, as it was
not decided, he could not say positively as to
the time ; but he would inform me in season.
The said Joseph H. Jackson said that Doc ton
Foster, Chancey L. Higbee, and the Laws
were red hot for a conspiracy, and he should
not be surprised if in two weeks there
should not be one of the Smith family left
alive in Nauvoo. After we arrived at Mr.
Loomis', near the Masonic Hall, in the city of
Nauvoo, he related some things which he
stated that Dr. Foster had said relative to
his family. This he did in the presence of
Mr. Eaton and myself, and strongly solicited
myself and Mr. Eaton to attend the secret
meeting and join them in their intentions.
The said Joseph H. Jackson further said
that Chancey Higbee had said that he, the
said Chancey Higbee* had seen men tied
hand and foot, and run through the heart
with a sword, and their heads taken off, and
then buried ; and he durst not say a word.
This the said Jackson said in Mr. Loomis'
room. And further this deponent saith not.

A. B. Williams.

Sworn to and subscribed .before me this
27th day of March, a.d.,1844.

Daioil H. Wklls, J. P.*

Digitized by

Google

168

EDITORIAL.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS 1 MILLENNIAL STAR,

SATURDAY, MARCH 16, 1861.

Proneness of the People to Go Astray— The Lord's Remedy in thesb
Days for it. — There is probably do point in the histories of the children of Israel
in the land of Palestine, and of the Jaredites and Nephites in the continent of America,
that seems more strange to the person who enjoys a knowledge of the truth and the
Spirit which accompanies it than the pronenets of those nations to depart from the
principles of righteousness. One year they appear to be diligent in the discharge of
their duty to the Lord, and faithful in keeping his commandments and the teachings
of his servants ; and the next year they would relapse into wickedness and be prac-
tising all manner of corruption. It required constapt watchfulness and labour on
the part of the Prophets and other servants of the Lord, preaching, prophesying,
and warning them continually of the judgments of the Almighty, to keep them any-
-where near right; and even then, with all the eloquence and power they could bring
to bear upon them, they would often fail in arousing them to a sense of their situation
and the importance of diligence and faithfulness. This was a constant source
of sorrow to the servants of the Lord, and they were forced to confess that they
were but strangers and pilgrims on the earth. Even the most favoured of them
were compelled at times to acknowledge this.

After the manifestations of the power of God among the Nephites, subsequent to
the resurrection of the Saviour, they dwelt in righteousness for a long space of time.
Jesus had visited them and ministered unto them openly, performed the most mar*
vellous workt. in their midst, and ordained twelve men to be his Apostles and special
witnesses, three of whom remained with them constantly, instructing and labouring
with them, and working mighty miracles ; yet the second generation had scarcely
passed away before they began to forsake righteousness, and the fourth generation
witnessed the complete extinction in their midst of all faith in the Lord. Still thia
is the most striking instance of the faithfulness of an entire people to the truth, for
a long period of time, that has been handed down to us.

We have been led to these reflections here by looking at our position as a people at
the present time in these lands. Though we may think it surprising 'that other peo-
ples should have been so easily led astray, and have imbibed erroneous notions and views,
and put them into practice, what reason have we for thinking ourselves any better
than they,* or any stronger to resist the influences they yielded to than they? How
many would there be out of the numbers who have embraced the truth, or even
of the numbers who have received the Priesthood, who, if left to themselves, would
be unswerving in their devotion to its principles ? We undoubtedly think there
would be many who, having the love of the truth deeply, and strongly implanted in
their hearts, and having partaken of the Spirit and comprehended its voice, would rather
depart from life than from the principles they have espoused ; but there are others,
and we fear they are not few, who, if left to themselves by the guiding Priesthood,
would in a short time stray into wickedness and corruption, anil permit ideas and
views as foreign to the Gospel of Jesus as darkness is to light to take possession of
them. This, we are aware, is rather a sweeping declaration ; but we nevertheless

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

169

believe it to be true. This people are but little better than their predecessors in this
respect. Were it not that God had placed his oracles in the Church on the earth,
they would be in a critical position ; and, judging by the proneness they at present
manifest to go zigzaggedly in the path marked out, they would soon wander wide from
the pure principles of the Gospel of Jesus. This is the conviction which will be
forced open every faithful man's mind who will mingle among the people and the various
Branches of the Church. But it is those who hold the Priesthood who are, in many
instances, the most to blame.

Men who have received the Priesthood and partaken of the Spirit of Truth commit
sin, and the Spirit leaves them ; and then they begin to wander, imbibe incorrect views
of the Gospel themselves, and impart them unto others. If a President of a Con-
ference or of a Branch, or a Travelling Elder take a course of this kind, but a short
time will elapse before those under his charge will be to a greater or less extent im-
pregnated with the leaven of his errors. Such is the confidence of the people gene-
rally in the Priesthood, that they are apt to be carried some distance by such
characters before they become fully aware of the direction in which they are hasten-
ing. The cases of this kind have not been few in this country ; and were they to be
permitted to operate unchecked by the Presiding Priesthood, every kind of abomina-
tion would soon be practised and fahe doctrines taught, to the subversion of the
principles of the Gospel, and the people of the Church would soon relapse into
sectarianism or idolatry.

There is this difference, however, between the work of God in these days and the
days of old — it is to be no more overcome, but to stand for ever. Therefore He
will cleanse his people from everything that is" impure. No man can go to any such
lengths in these days in leading the people astray, neither can the people themselves
go oat of the way so far, as in former times. All who pursue a course of that kind
will be removed from among his people. The work is not to continue in purity and
power for two hundred years only, as among the Nephites, but is to endure through-
out a millennium. Those who engage- in it, and continue, must necessarily be pure
and fall of faith and good works, or they will never be able to be the instruments
to lay the foundation of a work of such durability and magnitude.

When we take this view of the work, can the Saints wonder that men who violate
the principles of righteousness go down speedily? or can the Elders be surprised
that the Prophet Brigham is moved upon as he is from time to time to utter sharp
and powerful rebukes? Upon the speedy withdrawal of the dishonest and corrupt (
depend the purity and strength of the Church ; upon the fearless and pointed cor-
rection of error and improper conduct by the Prophet of God depend the influence
and power of the Priesthood, and upon both depend the' triumph and perpetuity of
the work. It never could be what it is destined to be, unless this were the case.
The Lord takes this manner of remedying the disposition on the part of his people to
go astray.

The sifting process is continually in operation. While in other dispensations the
leaven of evil continued to work until it overcame the good, in this dispensation the
reverse of this will be the case— the good will overpower the evil. Causes will con-
tinue to operate to bring this about. Those who practise iniquity will do well to
take warning, for they may rest assured that they oannot escape the fate which has
ever befallen those who in these times have preceded them in this course. We sin-
cerely trust that throughout this Mission there will be an awakening among officers
-and members to the importance of this subject, and that all who have any love N
£or the truth, or any desire to remain identified with the Church, will take a course

Digitized by Google

170 EDITORIAL.

to secure to themselves and their posterity a place which shall be permament among;
those who shall achieve the promised triumph over the powers of eviL

Instructions on Excommunication of Members. — There is no power bestowed
upon the Priesthood that should be exercised with greater discrimination and
< wisdom than the power to sever offending members from the Church. There is no*
doubt but this power, in the hands of hasty, inconsiderate men, has often been
abused. An excess of zeal in some instances, a desire of showing authority in others*
and personal pique in others — qualities which have their origin in ignorance — have
frequently prompted action upon this point; and the result has been that many
persons have been excommunicated from the Church, who, if wisely and mercifully
dealt with, might have been brought to see the error of their ways, and repented.
True wisdom and experience will teach us that it is our duty to exercise the heavenly
qualities of mercy, and to strive to save men as fathers, rather than to exercise au-
thority over them as masters.

The Presidency here have taken this matter into consideration. We wish, in
future, when there are offending members, whose conduct is such as to demand ex-
communication, that instead of the Branch Presidents acting upon the cases in their
Branch meetings, and cutting off the persons so offending, they will notify the Pre-
sident of their Conference, who can inform the District President of the existence
of such cases ; and before any Conference President shall take action upon such>
cases, he shall have the sanction of his District President. This may seem like a slow
arrangement ; but we are satisfied that it will be better than to give any persons cause
to say that they were dealt with in a harsh or arbitrary manner. It secures the
united counsel of all the presiding officers, with the benefit of their united experience
and will bring into exercise that wisdom and spirit of kindness which should ever
attend the Priesthood. Of course this counsel is not intended to deprive the Branches)
of all power to express their disapprobation of wickedness, and to leave them bur-
dened with characters guilty of flagrant wrongs, without the power to act in tbo
matter. When such cases occur, the Branches can disfellowship the parties until
further action can be taken upon them.

Abstract of News prom the Conferences!— Elder James Brown (3rd), in
a letter dated from Nottingham, March 1st, informs us that the Saints in that part
are " beginning to feel better and better in spirits, and many that have strayed from
the fold are beginning to return with renewed zeal." He says—" Many strangers
are beginning to attend our meetings, and some are reading our books and inquiring.
We are anticipating flourishing times again."

Elder Gleason writes from Newcastle, March 1st, as follows : — " I think there U
an improvement in the spirit of the Saints. Our meetings are very well attended
both by strangers and Saints. We had an interesting time at a Conference meeting
last Sunday at Newcastle. The Saints declared it to be the best meeting tiaat has
been held in the place for years, and invitations to visit and preach in other places
were given ; and enough are yielding in obedience to the Gospel to encourage us m
our labours and convince us that our testimony and time are not given altogether in
vain."

Elder Charles Turner, in a communication from Dundee, on the 1st of March*
*»ys that " the work in this Conference is still progressing 5 the Priesthood and

Digitized by CjOOglC

GROWTH OF THE LATTER-DAY WORK.

171

Saints are growing in love and good feelings towards each other ; also there is an
increasing desire growing within them for the spread of truth and redemption of
mankind." He adds that " they have not only baptized two or three new members,
Irat that several of those who left; the Church have been re-baptized, and express
their gratitude to God for enabling them to see their folly, and the need of retracing
their steps."

Elder Liez writes from Preston, March 4 th, to say that " the Saints throughout
the Conference, with very few exceptions, are feeling well and enjoying the spirit of
their religion." Many, however, he informs us, have been out of employment for
some time on strike for wages ; but adds — " There is a prospect of their returning
to their employment soon, and it will be well for them if they do. The masters have
given their workpeople a fortnight to decide ; and if they do not resume their labour
before the expiration of that time, there is to be a general lock-out, and thousands
must literally starve."

Elder John Brown, in a letter dated March 5th, from London, says of the Kent
and Essex Conferences — " These Conferences are spread over a wide extent of
country, with small Branches, or rather fragments of Branches, as there have not
been many added to them for two or three years past, and many of the most efficient
ones have gone to Zion. Yet I find many warm-hearted Saints among them that
rejoice in the truth. We are sadly in want of some more good efficient Elders in
the field. In the London Conference the Saints are pretty lively, and some strangers
are inquiring, and many are attending our meetings."

GROWTH OF THE LATTER-DAY WORK.

BT ELDEB E. L. SLOAN.

Nations gaze with admiration on the
patriotic conqueror as he marches vic-
toriously from battle-field to battle-field,
striking down the tyrant's bond- chains
and giving newborn freedom to an en-
slaved people. Wise men watch with in-
terest the growth of states from weak
dependency to power and importance.
Science wins its trophies amid the plaudits
of enraptured hosts, and the "march of
civilization" receives the approving smile
and support of a generation that sti etches
its mighty arms into the depths of the
primeval wilderness, driving the wild man
from his rude lair and savage home. But
the truths of heaven drawn from the
arcana of eternity, which would ennoble,
happify, and bless mankind, have to con-
tend with the most bitter opposition, the
strongest prejudices, and the traditions
of many generations, which have rendered
sacred, in the eyes of the great mass of
humanity, a belief in the various false
systems and doctrines received by man-
land as correct.

It is very common to speak of the fickle
favours of the multitude, and the aphor-
ism has been often verified in the case of
individuals whom circumstances have sud-
denly elevated to a prominent notoriety.
Nearly deified for a time, feted, honoured,
and be praised, they have been looked upon
as something almost transcending hu-
manity, while the multitude have wor-
shipped in them idols of their own crea-
tion, till counter circumstances have
revealed the fact that these idols were
composed of the same sordid materials as
themselves, when, rising in madness at
their mistaken credulity, they have shat-
tered with rude hands the objects of their
former adoration.

But with systems which have struck
their roots deep into the hearts of nations
it is different. It is not the fleeting
favour of a day which the multitude
bestows upon them. Dear to them by a
thousand reminiscences, they gather close
to their hearts the very leaves shaken off
by the passing band of time, and venerate

Digitized by Google

172

GROWTH OF THE LATTER-DAT WORK.

in the aged trunk a sacred heir-loom
bequeathed them by their sires to be
guarded as a priceless heritage. And of
these none have so potent a hold upon
the mind and affections of man as the
systems of religion which have claimed
and received the faith of ages.

Dynasties may pass away and others
aasume their honours and positions ; in-
stitutions and constitutions may be re-
modelled or changed; despotisms may
succumb to republics, and republics give
place to despotisms; but a people's faith —
a nation's religion, will longest withstand
the might of revolution's power, and pre-
sent the strongest front to the arm of
opposing change. It would be a needless
task to introduce proofs in support of this.
The history of the world proclaims it on
every pajje.

Taking these facts into consideration, it
will be seen that the Latter- day Work, in
its progress, must needs meet with terrible
opposition.

In re-introducing pure Christianity, it
necessarily strikes at the root of all insti-
tutions and systems which have grown
out of and are based upon a corrupt
Christianity. And a corrupt Christianity,
■with its offshoots and growths being be-
lieved in by that portion of the world
termed in these lands " enlightened and
civilized," as a necessary consequence it has
all the prejudices and traditions, the
learning and talent, the wealth, power,
influence, and popular feeling of the so-
called "enlightened and civilized world"
developed in the bitterest and most ex-
treme forms to contend with, while the
visible agents who have conducted this
■eemingly unequal warfare on its past
have been drawn from the ranks of the
hard-handed sons of labour — men whose
sinews were developed by the exercise of
toil, and whose minds sparkled with scin-
tillations of innate truth. Truly the odds
have been fearfully against it, and no arm
but that of Omnipotence could have suc-
cessfully sustained it in its hours of
peril.

Men often judge of the truth or falsity
of a system by its success. If it fights
its way to prominence and importance,
adherents flock to its ranks, till, embarked
on the tide of popularity, it glides
smoothly on to a recognised position and
takes its place in the annals of the times
amongst its kindred systems. Tested by
this rule, "Mor monism," so called, has

claims upon the respect, reverence*
and belief of humanity, such as no system
of ancient or modern times could offer.
Not only has it combatted with the fear-
fully unequal odds arrayed against it,
(unequal as far as mortal eyes could see,)
but it has done so successfully and vic-
toriously, striding into importance and
power with a rapidity unparalleled in any
age. It has emerged from every billow or
persecution's angry flood, strengthened
and invigorated, with its organization in~
creasing in perfection, through Priesthood
and knowledge, verifying the promise of
Jehovah that it " should never be broken
down, nor given to another people."

How the Saints have been spoiled and
driven; how they have been repeatedly
plundered of their hard- acquired property
and most sacred rights, without the shadow
of a just reason ; how their leaders have
been made the butt of persecution's
most fiery darts ; how they nave suffered
the foulest wrongs, of which red-handed
murder was not the least common, un-
atoned for and unredressed ; and how
they have grown, increased in numbers,
and progressed in importance, are facts
written in the history of the age with
which the world ought to be familiar; and
if it is not, its ignorance is culpable. Bat
there are a few facts connected with their
progress which may not be so generally
known.

True progressive increase does not so
much consist in the rapid influx of num-
bers as in the real worth of those united
to the body of which they become mem-
bers ; and that the devoted worth of the
Latter. day Saints as a body has been
severely tested in their voluntary exile
from the homes of their childhood, to
which they are knit by all the endearing
ties of kindred and fatherland, no one
who knows anything of their history as a
people will for a moment dispute. In
every zone which circles this globe of
ours, the Elders of the last dispensation
have travelled and toiled proclaiming the
advent of the kingdom of Qod, and from
each have borne willing, enthusiastic, and
self-sacrificing souls to be citizens of
that kingdom, and to have part in a salva-
tion therein. From Australia to Scandi-
navia, from Oceanica to either India,
through the length and breadth of the
vast American continent, in every nation
of Europe, on Afric's wild and luxuriant
land, and over the burning plains of Asia,

Digitized by

Google

GROWTH OF THE LATTER-DAY WORK.

even in Palestine — land of sacred historic
remembrances, indefatigable missionaries
have carried the sound of the everlasting
Gospel, and have called converts home to
the great gathering- place of the last
days.

In their wanderings and travellings,
they have been careful observers of the
manners and customs, the laws and in-
stitutions of the various nations among
whom they have mixed ; and carrying the
knowledge thus obtained and purified by
connection with principles of truth and
virtue with them into their private citi-
cenship, as they gave place to others in the
same field of Labour, they have aided in
presenting the spectacle of a travelled
community, who, by practical acquaint-
anceship, have gained a knowledge of the
world, and are tutored in the school
of experience. That knowledge and that
experience have shown them the hollow-
xtess of all man- invented institutions and
taught them to rely on the Lord God
Omnipotent in the hour of need, and to
Jwnour his statutes in the season of pros-
perity. Still the great missionary work
rolls on, and each returning season wit-
nesses these unsalaried and devoted la-
bourers bidding adieu for a time to
^unities and friends, and .hurrying forth
iariethe wide field of the world, to bear
tfctnee their " sheaves of worth" when
returning with songs of everlasting joy
to Zion. Who shall say such a work,
conducted upon such self-abnegating
fcineiples, is not bound to grow and
prosper ? Think of it, ye liberal- hearted
«aee, who freely donate your shillings
attd pounds till they swell into thou-
sands, that ye may send missionaries
into the field and sustain them there; and
ask yourselves how that religion ye so
liberally pay to present to others who are
ignorant of it, in a corrupted form, first
apread and grew into importance. And
■tilt ye so venerate primitive teachers,
tbeir devotion and self-denial, weohallenge
your admiration and respect for successors
trim worthily walk in their footsteps.

The unity which pervades all the rami-
fications of the Church of Christ Upon
Abe earth is a powerful cause of its rapid
growth. To- those unacquainted with the
afirit which animates the Saints of the
list days tins unity is a perfect mystery.
How a people, so varied m speech* nation*
•tity, and early traditions, can break down
the barriers which divide races and peo-

ples, and dwell together in one vast bro-
therhood, is a problem so complex that it
puzsles the brains of sociologists, and puts
to the blush all the communism ever
preached by uninspired man.

But when it is considered that this
unity pervades them as a people while yet
scattered among the nations— that every
mission in every nation yearns for and
strives to obtain the blessing and appro*
bation of God and the Presidency of bis
Church upon the earth ; when it is con*
Bidered that the voice of that Presidency
finds an answering echo in the breast of
every faithful Saint throughout the world,
even though he climbs the snow- clad
heights of the giant Alps, or wanders o'er
the sunny isles of the Pacific Ocean, it
will be seen that a mighty lever is erected,
which in its increasing power will become
able to exalt, not merely a few isolated in-
dividuals, but a world, socially, morally,
politically, and religiously, to an eminence
consonant with the divinity of man's
heaven-born intelligence.

Look at the picture which the religious
world presents. Reputedly following
him who said, " If ye are not one, ye are
not mine," its appearance is anything but
indicative of a practical application of the
injunction given by the Son of God.
Quarreling, contending, disputing, and
ever at variance on every point of doctrine,
instead of presenting a holy unity such as
the faith of Christ requires, it seems an
embodiment of every conflicting eleasene*-
and presents the idea of chaos come again.
Sending missionary representatives of its
conflicting dogmas to the remotest chines
of the earth, who oarry a Bible, the
sacred precepts of wtuch they profess to
revere, it compasses sea and land to make
proselytes, and fills them with the hate of
hell against other believers in the same
Bible and professed worshippers of the
same Deity.

Contrast this wkh the unity wbidh
pervades the entire body militant of the
Latter-day Work— a unity increasing in
breadth and volume with every son and
daughter of God born into the kingdom,
and therein discover a power and or*
-ganixation which grows unceasingly in
every element of permanent greatness —
a power which has grown in the short
period of thirty years from six obscure
humble individuals to a nation, wiHn
united nnssionary operations in every
quarter of the globe, whose converts

Digitized by Google

174

CORRESPONDENCE.

flock by thousands yearly to the appointed i
gathering- place, all fired with the same
holy zeal, manifesting the same self-
sacrificing spirit, and united by a loving {
fraternal bond stronger than the ties of i
nationality or kindred ; and a nation
that will soon take its place in the legis- j
lative senate of the world, directing by the
voice of inspiration the destinies of empires i
for the ushering in the world-spread i
reign of peace upon the earth, when Ring
Jesus assumes the crown and claims the
aovereinty of all nations.

The growth of the Latter-day Work
and its ultimate destiny are but the ful-
filment of the voice of prophecy in all ages.
Its origin, its growth, and continued pro-
gression, individually and as a whole, are
all based upon one simple principle, which

every man can test and apply in his own
experience; and that principle is con-
tinuous communication with the eternal
world, or modern revelation.

To apply it and enjoy it, all must
render obedience to the commandments of
God, repent of their sins, believing in the
message declared unto them, be baptized
by one who has authority to administer
that sacred rite, and, having hands laid on
for the gift of the Holy Ghost, continue
to live godly in Christ Jesm ; t>o shall the
spirit of freedom, love, knowledge, and
unity abide with them, and in living godly
they will become more like God and learn
the nature of their mission here, their
ultimate destiny, and the ultimate destiny
of the earth, with its inhabitants, in the
growth of the Latter-day Work.

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.

House of Representatives,

Washington, Feb. 14, 1861.

£lder G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother,— The city is full of
strangers brought here as members of
the Peace Congress and as office-hunters
under the President elect.

The Seceded States have formed a
Confederation, made a Provisional Go-
vernment, elected Jefferson Davis Pre-
sident, and A. H. Stephens Vice-Pre-
sident. Texas has passed a secession
ordinance, and gone out of the Union.
•Virginia has elected a decided majority of
the Convention agajnst secession (except
conditionally). Tennessee has gone over-
whelmingly for the Union — voted down a
Convention. As yet the Peace Congress
has done but little; a committee of
one from each represented State reports
their status of agreement to-morrow,
being, as I am informed, in substance, the
Crittenden propositions.

Congress has been noisy for the last
week, and hundreds of petitions are
coming in, signed by hundreds of thou-
sands, praying for the Crittenden or any
other proposition that would give peace
to the country. This last expression of
the public will is evidently alarming to
the ultra politicians of the North, and
some of them acknowledge that such are

the inconsistencies of the people, that,
were the Crittenden proposition sub-
mitted to the people of the North, they
would adopt it overwhelmingly.

Some of the remarks of Mr. Lincoln,
expressed at Indianapolis, are deemed
significant and full of meaning, wherein
he defines the interpretation or meaning
of the words coercion and invasion. The
House has not come to a vote upon the
measures of the " Committee of Thirty-
three." They will probably do so on
Tuesday, when I shall offer an amend-
ment by an additional section to that
part of the report giving an enabling act
to the Territory of New Mexico. My
amendment proposes the admission of
Utah under the Constitution which has
been presented. By this, at least, I shall
get the sense of the House, for I have no
hopesof admission . The Special Committee
on the Indian Fraud Bond nutter have
reported, and it certainly shows up the
participants in no very favourable light,
particularly Governor Floyd, whom toe
Herald styles " Captain of Forty Thieves."
Pike's Peak, as Colorado and Nevada,
will, I think, be organized next week.
Senator Green has fixed the boundaries
in the Senate Committee to suit roe, not-
withstanding the efforts of others to the
oontrary. I have saved sixty miles east of
Green River, Browne's Hole on the east,
and Ruby Valley on the west, thus

Digitized by

SUMMARY.

175

driving me from the parallels of longitude
from 109 to 116.

May the Lord Mess you is my prayer.
Your brother,

W. H. HoorER,

New York, Peb. 19, 1861.

'Elder G. Q. Cannon.

Beloved Brother, — We now have a
large and pleasant meeting-place in
Williamsburg, called the " Odeon," capa-
ble of seating about 700 or 800 people,
which has for the last two or three
•Sundays been pretty well filled with

hearers. But as yet few have received the
Gospel, though brother Orson and Erastus
and also brother Jones and Gates have
preached the Gospel with great power
Sunday after Sunday. What little time
I can get I have devoted to answering
inquiries into " Mormonism " by Germans
in this city, and the Lord has greatly
blessed me for so doing. Two I have
baptized since you left here, and I expect
more will follow before many days.

With best wishes for your welfare, I
remain your brother in the Gospel,

B. H. SCHETTLER.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gshsbal. — News from Naples states that the Mint and some other former rojal
establishments have been suppressed. A despatch from Rome says*-" Francis II. and
tiia Queen are making preparations for their departure to Bavaria. They are selling their
carriages, and have dismissed their household. Popular political manifestations are con-
tinually taking place. Twenty students have been expelled from the University." The
.following despatches from Warsaw have been received: — (Feb. 27th) — "Riotous assem-
blages forming in several streets. Troops, being pelted with stones, replied by firing
on the people, killing six; and wounding a similar number." (Feb. 28th) — " Order is-
Te-established. In the event of fresh disturbances taking place, a state of siege will be
proclaimed." (March 1st) — " The town presents a most gloomy appearance, everybody
-wearing mourning." (March 2nd) — " A solemn funeral of those who fell in the recent
-disturbances has taken place. A committee of public safety, comprised of citizens, has
been formed, and has issued a proclamation requesting the maintenance of order. The
funeral of those killed gave rise to a great popular manifestation, in which 100,000 men
-were assembled. The troops were confined to their barracks. A petition to the Emperor
is being signed, soliciting the re-establishment of the Polish Constitution, which has been
suspended since 1831."

American. — Another star has at length fallen from the Federal constellation — Texas
has seceded from the Union. Jefferson Davis was inaugurated President of the Southern
Confederacy at Albania on the 19th ult. The spectacle is described as the grandest ever
-witnessed. The South inaugural address sajs :— M Union with the Northern States is>
neither practicable nor desirable ; and, if necessary, we must maintain, by the final arbi-
trament of the sword, the position assumed." The Southern Congress has declared the
navigation of the Mississippi free* Advices from Montmorency, Mexico, announce that
Mejfa had entered the town of Rivodi, at the head of 2,000 men, and butchered 200 of the
inhabitants, and burned the town. The Indians were ravaging the New Mexican Territory.
Application had been made at Washington for assistance to suppress hostilities. The
Herald reports " the city of Albany flooded, vessels driven ashore, and great destruction
of property," and sajs— M No description can convey a correct idea of the extent of the
disaster. Steamboats, propellers, ferry-boats, vessels, and canal- boats are jammed together
• in a promiscuous heap of ruins. All the bridges are more or less injured. There are at
present no signs of a fall in the flood."

VARIETIES.

CdruroauMS. — What is most like a horse's shoe? A mare's. Why are fixed stars like
pea, ink, and paper? Because they are stationary (stationery). Why is a miser like a
snan with a short memory ? Because he's always forgetting (for getting). Why is a
«sooxn fall of married people empty? Because there's not a tingle person in ij,

Digitized by

176 POETRY, — ADDRESSES.

Never Repress Youb Tears.— A lengthy dissertation has been published by s*
French physician on the beneficial influence of proanicg and crying on the nervoas sys-
tem. He contends that groaning and crying are the two grand operations by 'which
nature allays anguish — that he has uniformly observed that those patients who give way
to their natural feelings more apeedHy recover from accidents and operations than these
who suppose that it is unworthy a man to betray suoh symptoms of oow*rdice as either to
groan or cry. He is always pleased by the crying and violent roaring of a patient during
the time he is undergoing a violent surgical operation, because he is satisfied that he will
thereby soothe his nervous system to as to prevent fever and insure a favours* I e^rinuF|
aiien. " He relates the ease of a man who, by his crying and bawling, reduced his pulse from
one hundred and twenty-six to sixty, in the course of two hours. That some patienta
often have great satisfaction in groaning, and that hysterical patients experience great
relief from crying, are facts which no person will deny.

POETRY.

SCHOOL THY FEELINGS.

School thy fceliti(Uf, O my brother! Nor let outraged feelings sway thee,

Train thy warirrimpulsive soul ! His mean act to imitate.

Oouot its emotions smother, . . <.,..„ v„„„i„ e . in() „ i,

. BuUe t *-o m ..vvn*.on«ro 1 . ^^tSS^Kttg!

School thy feelings ; there is power Gauge thy wrath hy wisdom's standard y

In the cool collected mind : Keep thy rising anger down.

. Passion shatters reasons tower — a^j, ^_

Makes the clearest vision blind. "ttaSPfftSdS EST

School thy feelings ; condemnation And that patient, calm eudu ranee

Never pass o» friend or foe. Wins respect and aids defence.

' " ^^Jt^t turuZi^- Noblest minds have finest feelings.

. , Mke a flood ot truth may flow. t^rta* strings a breath can inert,

v _ Hear dtfenrt before deciding, And the Gospel's sweet revealihge

. n . , And a ray of light J#q£ btssfln. Tune them with the key of love.

Isbdwing t)u j e what tilth is hiding M . i«._.i„ ^.....i-i

Should affliction's acrid vial Trained to firmness, and enfolded

i Bnrst o'er thy unsheltered head, In a calm tranquility.

' ^^^I^TJ^u^'* Wound not wilfully another:

. . Bait itobitterneaahath Bed. Cmt^nn baste with reason^ Mftjtt, i

Should a fancied friend betray thee, School thy feelings, sf tttt, heather ; j

- Seek not to retaliate, rTrain tnem in the path of right!

^Birmingham. Chables W. Pkmkos*. j

Fdward Cliff, 3, Furlong Place, Buralem, Staffordshire. ' ' \

JotoToieas^ :
William Tburgood, «are of Mr. Robert Holt, St» Clemeat's Square, 8C Jehn'% WoycjtStqr,

COtfTBOTB.

tJrtbelref in God's Interest iu Nations— His Growth of the Latter-day Work .,..^.171

Jhdgmeiits yet to be Poured out „ „ 16\ Correspondence.— America : Letters from 5 ion, 1

History of Joseph Smith ~.- ~~ We W. ft. Hooper and *Wer Sehettlor A74

BditortaL-ft^neaanf the People to go Astray Summary of Nawa and Passing Siwtta^-.—. J »

—The Lord's Remedyln these Days for It— Varieties . . , , 17&

instructions on Excommunication of Mem- Poetry .—School th} reelings r?.J^...Z.~.~~~ i/»

bers.— Abstract of News from the Conferences lft8 Addresses w 176

LIVERPOOL: ,

EDITED AND Fl BIJSHBfc BY 0BOBOE % CA*HOir, MblWITOS.

, • ■ ■ ■ : uwDom ■

. rv+zijnen Ms irk l*tt*k pay garters 'a pom— Hn/3» t in .usali » ji n

printed *r jaIibs Awn yxrnaw, 61, joittb /ofrjc* sTaiafr, Mvaa*e*i*

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY 8AINT8'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

*A wtmthatl come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nation* t
ie will plead with all ficth; he will gkee them that are wicked to the award, saith the Lord"-*

' JlUMIAB,

He. 12, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, March 23, 1861. Price One Penny.

THE GATHERING A MEANS OF SALVATION FROM APOSTAC7,'

BT ELDER W. O. MILLS.

Man is a social being. He is so or-
ganized by his Creator that it seems
necessary for him to associate with his
fellows to develop the powers of his mind,
advance in the progress of the race, renew
Ms exhausted feelings, and check any
errors that may occur by his limited
knowledge in carrying- out his design?,
sfid those of the master-minds that guide
the current of society. In government,
science, art, and religion alike, mind must
associate with mind as a great corrective
and purifier. For this reason, the Saints
.meet together, Sabbath' after Sabbath, in
the places' appointed, to get their spiritual
strength renewed, to be instructed in
the things necessary for their growth in
knowledge, and to disabuse th*ir minds of
any false impressions they may have re-
ceived during their intercourse with
error, and connections with designing
people actuated by impure and mioked
motives. Not only are they benefited
s^irituaJfv, but they are likewise bodily
invigorated, inaamneh as the mind more
or less acta upon the system, and shows
itself by the stnUing* cheerful face, or the
downcast countenance. Not only do the
M&ite feel blessed in communion, but the
sMtarian World ewjoy themselves much in
«ir meetings; and to make them more
ng, they make their places of wor-
aitractive, and engage the most
4*4 energetic men ta please or

instruct them. Indeed, the ancient re-
cords testify of this means as necessary;
and tbey exhort the Saints to assemble
themselves together often. We feel that
a gathering of this kind is highly bene-
ficial to us all, and that the variety of
gifts and the instructions imparted keep
our feet in the path of truth, and remove
error and prejudice from our minds. If
any false doctrines or principles are ad-
vanced or entertained by our brethren,
then they may be exposed and subdued,
and the channel of communication be*
kept pure. Outrageous views and im-
proper practices borrowed from unholy
systems around can be dispelled and cor-
rected, and we can thus preserve ourselvea
from running into extremes and apos-
tacy.

This great principle of gathering,
counselling, and* united investigation wilr
be one great means of preserving the
Church pure and intact, and enable Qod
and his Prophets to fulfil his designs in
the perpetuity of the kingdom, and
making it successful in breaking down all'
other kingdoms, — in short, Wmake it Jarft*
for ever. Were it not for this principle*
the Church of the latter da>» would
be as short-lived as that in former
times.

We have often felt astonished and ?ur-
prised that the Church established . by
Jesus himself and his actual associ*u%

Digitized by

Google

178

THE GATHERING, ETC.

the Apostles, should have so soon fallen
■a way from the truth. Notwithstanding the
•powers which the Apostles and Elders en-
joyed, the blessings poured upon the Saints,
"arid the revelations so copiously given the
Church, yet, as the 'originators and ad-
vocates of the Church predicted and ex-
acted, it became corrupt and powerless,
and partially amalgamated with other
fT^tems, and allowed forms not sanc-
tioned by God to be associated with
Cnristianity. It is true that God placed
in the Church "Apostles, Prophet*?, Evan-
gelists, Pastors, and Teachers, inspired by
himself, for the perfecting of the Saints,
the work of the ministry, and the edifying ]
of the body of Christ ; that they hence- |
forth be no more children tossed to- and- ,
fro, and carried about with every wind of j
doctrine, by the sleight of men, 'and cun- I
nintf craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to |
deceive." In consequence, however, of no
.gathering- place being established — as the j
world was not prepared to grant one — ,
and the Travelling Ministry not asso- !
minting with the head authorities of the
-Church, but being thrown upon their (
•own resources, they taught what seemed .
to them right and consistent, introduced
many of their own peculiar views, and
-the dogmas of the schools of philosophy :
which they respected, arid allowed specu- '
lative theories and revelations, or spiritual
manifestations which appeared to them
supernatural, and were not understood to
he guides of the Church.

The Apostles were appointed or appor-
tioned to various districts of country far
apart from each other, and the fields of
their labour barren end difnoult to manage;
.and they resided in their several places
until the enemies of the truth shed their
blood. St. Peter was at Rome, and
•crucified there; James the Great, at
Jerusalem, and beheaded ; John at Ephe-
sus, after being at Rome ; James the Leas
At Jerusalem, and thrown from the temple;
Philip at Phrygia, and banged against a
pillar; Matthew in Kthiopia, and was
slain by the sword or otherwise ; Bartho-
lomew in' India, and flayed alive ; Andrew
dn Achaia, was nailed to a cross, and
preached until he died ; Thomas in Com-
onandel, East Indies, and put to death by a
'lance through his body ; Jude in Armenia,
*nd shot to death with arrows ; Simon
the Zealot in Persia, and crucified ; Mat-
thias in Colchis, stoned and beheaded;
Paul at J^me and other places, which he,

never visited but once, and beheaded in
Rome ; Luke in Greece, who was hanged
on an olive tree; Mark in Egypt, and
dragged through the streets; and thus
with the whole of the early advocates of
Christianity. The modes of communi-
cation from person to person and from
place to place were tardy, uncertain, and
dangerous. No penny postal arrange-
ments were then and there in operation
to carry the gushings of love and friend-
ship, the items of business, or the reports
of accidents, martyrdoms, or political
movements; no steamboats or railroad
carriages to transport the traveller to his
place of destination; and no wires laid
to convey with the lightning's velocity the
burning thought, the ominous warning,
or the mart's pulsations. Apostles and
Evangelists might be murdered, and
months or years might elapse before the
solemn tidings could be known by many
branches of the Church. With these
difficulties they had to contend ; and very
seldom could the chief propagators of the
Gospel meet in conference to know the
condition of the Church, or the nature) T
of the doctrines promulgated. They had
the authority, it is true, to preach the-
Gospel and administer the ordinances,
and were inspired more or less to declare
the principles ; but they were only men,
born in ignorance, nursed in false tradi-
tion and prejudice, and had to unlearn J
error as well as others. They too fre-
quently gave their own pmate views on
important subjects, and introduced no*
tions and dogmas under the influence of
their old religious creeds. The sacred
page gives many illustrations in supporf
of this statement; and it is to be re-
gretted that, despite the gift of the
Spirit which accompanies the obedienoe
of truth, there is a tendency with men to k
try and improve God's Gospel; and, un-
willing to acknowledge their ignorance
on unknown questions, they give their
narrow speculative religion or theories
as sound doctrine, and as well worthy the.
notice and belief , of every mind. Men
may be ordained to holy offices, but they,
are fallible creatures, subject to err, and
oannot work alone ; men may be inspired*
but they are subject .to their peculiar edu-
cation and prejudices ; and men may be
instrumental in bringing many to the
truth ; yet, if not sufficiently humble, and
if without a thorough knowledge of
themselves, they may speculate deeply*

Digitized by

Google

THE GATHERING, ETC.

17*

^pd ultimately draw many aside from the
trnth.

The great Apostle Paul is an eminent
example of this position. He was con-
vinced of Jesus' being the Christ in a
miraculous manner, and was highly fa-
Toured by a direct communication to him-
self, convincing him of his awful position.
He displayed unremitting zeal in spread-
ing the Gospel of the ■ Son of God, and
established many churches. He met the
prejudices of the age and the fabe learn-
ing* of the civilized world, combatted the
religious philosophy of Judaism and
Paganism, and received revelation from
heaven for many purposes; yet, after a
fourteen years* ministry, with all his zeal
and capabilities, he tells us he was not really
positive that he had not taught error or
withheld truth. In the 2nd chapter of
4&alatians be says — " Then fourteen years
after, I went np again to Jerusalem with
Sarnabas, and took Titus with me also.
And I went up by revelation, and com-
rminicated unto them that Gospel which
I preach, among the Gentiles, but pri-
vately to them which were of reputation,
lest by any means I should run or had
run in vain." Here we learn from himself
that 1st, be went up to Jerusalem by re-
velation ; 2nd, that he communicated the
Gospel as he had preached it for fourteen
jean to them of reputation — in other
words, to the head authorities of the*
Church ; 3rd, that they were more com-
petent than he to judge what was genuine
and what was false ; 4tb, that he was not
certain whether he bad preached all truth
or partly false doctrine — in other words,
- jkotddrun, or had run in vain; and 6th,
that as a consequence of this he dreaded
getting a rebuke; hence he told them
privately. Now, we see the absolute ne-
eeasity of a gathering together of the
chief authorities of the Church to the
place where As resides that receives the
authority and the power, in the sweet and
pathetic language of Jesus to Peter, to
"feed my sheep, feed my lambs." By
going up to the fountain head, we receive
the waters pure and unadulterated ; and
they taste not there of the various bodies
with which they come in contact in their
journey afar off ; they taste not of minerals,
poisons, or decayed substances or vege-
table matter. By the Elders returning
to the courts of Zion, tbey have opportu-
nities of learning truth and correcting
tasbtakes. t)o we not know that if there

was not a constant supply of Elders from
Zion, and a return of those labouring
here, the most extravagant notions would
be entertained, absurd theories taught*
and foolish and corrupt practices pre-
valent. Speculative theories would be
advanced for our consideration, wonderful
revelations announced, and damning doc-
trines promulgated to the credulous re-
ceivers ; and those who dared to question
their validity and truthfulness would be
severed from the Church. It is not the
ignorant or untaught Elder who' would
be guilty of such follies, but the wise,
zealous, and favoured men of integrity,
who, rejoicing in the truths revealed by
the Prophet, would not be content, but
would seek in their own way to learn
God's will and purpose, and allow their
reasoning, logic, and deductions to darken
their minds. Men of taste may get so-,
familiar with deformity and disorder that
they may fail to descry them as such.'
The timid girl may dread the very ap-
pearance of a negro at first sight ; hut-
after the first repulsive shock is over, and:
the negro becomes an every-day visit6r,
giving his bland smiles and showing his
white teeth, and bestowing little atten-
tions, she sees no deformity whatever, and
no longer thinks the black skin hideous.
So may good men love to speculate in
religion, and thus see no error in error,
but actually clothe it with the garb of
truth. Too often have we seen such con-
duct manifested, and we thank God that
the facilities of communication are so
numerous and available, that men can go
to-and-fro and be at head- quarters with
the men of God there, in order to learn
the ways of God aright. And we feel
that God has wisely ordered the gathering
as one grand means to carry out his own
purposes, and fulfil the sayings of the old
Prophets, that the kingdom will not be
overcome again, and the Saints will in-
herit it for ever and for ever. Without
such a principle, too, we feel confident
that the truth of heaven could not pro-
gress over the whole world, and the
churches could not be saved from delu-
sions, errors, phantasies, and abominations
so effectually by any other means known
to us. Indeed, being God's way, it is the
best, and will be effectual for every
purpose for which it is designed. It is
by means of the gathering alone that the
influence and power of Apostles and Pro*
phots can be brought upon the Saint*

Digitized by CjOOg IC

180 OUB RELATIONSHIP TO ffOD.

universally, tbat tbey may learn all truth, parson or the better taught and more

and be no longer as children tossed to- and- advanced Elder of tbis Church, who may

fro by every wind of doctrine, whether deal too much in speculative religion,
that wind be from the worldly- taught

OUR RELATIONSHIP TO GOD.

BY ELDER CHARLES W. PENROSE.

The beginning of religion in the soul
•f man is faith in a Supreme Being.
All forms of worship and all creeds must
of necessity spring from this principle.
A religion based upon belief in a false
god is erroneous, and those who embrace
it waste their time. No matter how
beautiful it may appear, or how powerful
it may become, — no matter how many cor-
rect principles may become incorporated
with it, as a system it must be incorrect,
because it is built upon delusion. Its
root is an error; therefore the sap of
falsehood flows through its branches.

The true religion, then, will in its first
effort direct the minds of men towards the
true God. It will convey to them some
information concerning him, that their
faith may be properly exercised. Man-
kind, by their own researches and re-
flections, cannot obtain a correct under-
standing of the Deity. Many of their
conclusions, being formed out of ima-

fination, will certainly be fallacious,
nformation concerning the true God
must therefore proceed from himself, and
he must be the direct Author of the true
religion. Hence^ny system of religion
established by men who have no com-
munication with God— let their in-
tentions be ever so good, or their learning
ever so extensive, must be erroneous.
The efforts made, by the founder* and
promulgators of the various forms of
modern Christianity to explain what God
is, only tend to bewilder and mystify the
human mind: both teachers and pupils
are alike enveloped in the dust which
they raise themselves to the blinding of
their own eyes. Truth is always com-
patible with common sense. But the
orthodox definitions of Deity are utterly
opposed to common sense; indeed, their
advocates avowedly require us to go far
beyond it ; therefore their definitions are
*ntrue, and the religions springing from
them are a delusion and a snare.

"Mormoniam" comes to a?, amid the-
darkening clouds of falsehood and mys-
ticism, as a pure beam of light from tho-
Sun of Righteousness, revealing to our-
wondering eyes and exulting souls the
Omnipotent God as our own Eternal
Father. In its rays the sayings of
Jesus and the declarations of the ancient
seers sparkle as gems of truth, which?
before were hidden from our gaze, though,
presented before our eyes in au opea
casket.

" God made man in his own image**
because men are his children. Every
seed produces after its kind. When a
man wishes to know what God is likev
let him reflect upon the sayings of Paul*
that " We are the offspring of God,** and
that he is the "Father of spirits," and>
bis understanding is opened ; let him
ponder upon other like sayings of inspired
men, and the truth enters; and as his
expanding mind receives the repeated
evidences of the glorious fact, his soul
swells with the ennobling consciousness
that he is literally a son of God; that,
therefore God in person is like unto him-
self, and that he may one day in all
respects become like bis Father.

Jesus told his disciples that his Father
was their Father also, and that they were
his brethren; and in their prayers he
taught them to say, " Our Father who art
in heaven." This has been viewed by
men in a mystical, figurative, " spiritual"
sense. " Mormonism" shows it to us as
a literal fact, and explains away the
difficulties that lie in the way of its
comprehension.

God is the Father of the spirits of all
men. Jesus Christ was the first-born
and the "express image" of the Father;
he was the " only begotten" according to
the flesh: all mankind are therefore
' brothers and sisters ; they dwelt together
'"in the beginning" with the Father
" before the foundation of the world£*

Digitized by Google -

OUK RELATIONSHIP TO GOD.

181

but have defended to this lower world
to obtain a tabernacle or body made from
the earth, that they may be brought in
contact with evil, and, by overcoming it,
show themselves worthy of an exaltation
in *' the world to come." The spirit or
soul, which is the real man and the off-
spring of God, operates and is operated
upon through the medium of the body.
Those who exhibit, in the school of trial,
the most Godlike traits of character, will
in a future state become rulers in the
leather's kingdom — "kings and priests
unto God/' and be like him in all
tilings.

Jesus, " because he loved righteousness
And hated iniquity, was anointed with
the oil of gladness above his fellows. 1 '
When his body was raised to immortality,
be went back with it into the presence of
•the Father; so, when the resurrection
=which he has brought about shall restore
to us our bodies from the dust, if we have
.followed in his footsteps, we also shall enter
the presence of our Father and be like
him— that is,immortalspirits incorporated
in immortal bodies, with all the functions
and attributes of our being developed,
sanctified, refined, and in perfect control.
{See Heb. xii. 9; Job. xxxviii. 1 — 7 ;
Gen. i. 27; John xx. 17; Col. i. 15;
Heb. i. 3; Rev. iii. 14; 1 John iii. 2;
Phil. iii. 21 ; Rev. iii. 21.)

In the light of "Mormonism," we un-
derstand, In a limited degree, something
concerning God by studying ourselves.
To know God, we must know ourselves.
All the personal attributes which are
ascribed to God by inspired men we find
in ourselves, in an imperfect, undeveloped
state. But " Mormonism" does not de-
tract in the remotest degree from the
potency and majesty of the Supreme
Being. It does not present the Almighty
to our view in a degrading light. On the
contrary, it exhibits his glorious perfec-
tions and infinite power in the most sacred
and love-inspiring manner. It does not
tend to debase God to the level of man,
bat to exalt man to the perfections of
God.

It leads mankind to the reception of
the first principle of true religion, by
showing them, as far as they can comprehend
it with newly- opened minds, something
concerning*^ Author of their being, — thus
creating in them a lively faith, and show-
ing them that He is their Father, draw-
- feg them nigh unto Him, and leading them

to look to Him for light and truth, for
laws and precepts, the reception and
practice of which will purify them and
prepare them for his presence.

It has come direct from God himself
for the salvation of his children, revealing
their glorious, origin, and the still more
glorious future that awaits them, if they
prepare for it, showing them how to
become cleansed from the filthiness of the
past, and how to act every day and in
every position so as to develop tne germt
of divinity within them, to control and put
to its proper use every power and attri-
bute of their existence, and how to deport
themselves one with another, that each
may be a help, a strength, and a
comfort to his brother, and open-
ing up a direct communication between
each son and daughter of God and their
Father in heaven.

By this intercourse with Deity, the
people of the earth may advance from,
faith to' knowledge ; they can learn the
ways of God with certainty/ walking in
the light of the spirit of revelation ; and,
by practising what they learn, they will
approximate towards- his full image and
perfections.

Men will become like God, not by soma
supernatural and sudden change, either
in this world or another, but by the
natural development of the divinity
within them. Time, circumstances, and
the necessary intelligence are all that arc
required. The time is given to all, the
circumstances are continually transpiring
around us, and the intelligence is free to
every one who will seek after it. God
alone can impart it, and he will be in*
quired of. He will only convey it in his
own way, because he knows that his way
is the best. Therefore all men must be-
come humble and draw near unto the
Lord; they must practise His religion,
and cast aside all others ; they must direct
the entire energies of their souls according
to his regulations.

If they do this, then they will have
great joy in all their works; they will
understand the designs of the Father in
relation to the human family ; they will,
see his wisdom displayed in all the
various positions in which he has placed
them; they will comprehend how he
overrules and controls every event with-
out destroying or curtailing the free
agency of man; they will discover a
.benefit resulting even from the very

Digitized by Google

182

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

things which they before accounted as
the greatest evils that could befal them ;
they will behold in their daily life and
Taxied associations opportunities afforded
them of cnltivating those Godlike at-
tributes which they feel growing within
them, and the perfect exercise of which
they so much admire and adore in the
Great Eternal.

And though they will experience many
failures, discover in themselves glaring
deficiencies, and find that a continual
warfare has to be kept up within their
own bosoms, yet a rich glow of joy will
animate their hearts when they reflect
that their Elder Brother, who was
a tempted in all points" as they are, has
overcome and entered into his glory, and
realize that they are gradually advancing
on the same road, and making sure
progress and certain improvement.

If all mankind could be brought to
understand and believe that they are sons
and daughters of Ood, that they are all
one family, that their interests are really
identical, and that they are in a state of
probation to manifest their fitness for
exaltation or debasement in a future
state, and if they would humble them-
selves and consent, to be taught of God,
what a mighty change would speedily take
place in the world ! Strife would begin to
oease, enmity to depart, and falsehood to die ;
justice, mercy, love, and concord would
put forth their buds, and their blossoms
would be a sweet- smelling savour unto the
Lord.

O ye sons of men, think upon the
noble qualities and powers of the " better
part" of your nature ! What are they ?
Whence come they ? They are the fruits

of the seed of Deity. They have de-
scended to you from the loins of the
Holy One. Ye are the sons jf Ood —
children of the Most High sent to a
school of trial. Learn well your lessons.
Let the holy aspirations and sacred im-
pulses of your heaven-born spirits have
room for their development. * Conquer
every earthly, debasing inclination. "That
which is of the earth is earthy," and leads
downward ; that which is of the heavens
is God-born, and draws back to its
source. Which shall gain the ascendancy ?
Overcome your earthly body, and you
shall raise it to the sphere of immortality,
the birthplace of the soul.

Gaze around on the works of the
Father, contemplate his greatness in
the wonders of the universe, examine
the structure of this revolving globe, go
down into the ocean's briny depths, soar
aloft into the firmament, watch the over-
whelming multitude of glittering worlds
that move in silent sublimity in the midst
of the unbounded expanse, and realizing
that thou art a son of Him who created
far more than what thou beholdest, say*
Canst thou stoop to the mean, paltry acts
which' unthinking mortals around thee
practfsrf every day ? No ! Press onward
to the glory of the Father. Do good
and refuse the evil. Learn well thy part
below, and in the family mansions above
thine education shall be perfected, and
with eternity, unbounded spaee, and an
infinitude of matters amidst which to
exercise thy immortal powers, the pros-
pect is before thee of becoming, in powery
in majesty, and in dominion, like the
Almighty Father our Eternal God.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 167.)

[March, 1844.]

Also M. G. Eaton made affidavit as
follows :—

•State of Illinois, )
Hancook County, ) 98,

Personally appeared before me, Daniel H.
"Veils, an acting Justice of the Peace, in
and for the said county, M. G. Eaton, who
fe s fag duly sworn according to law, de-

poseth and saith that on or about the*
fifteenth day of March, a.d., 1844, Joseph H«
Jackson came to me several times and re-
quested me to go od tho hill with him. I
finally consented and went with him to the
Keystone Store, in the city of Nan too.
Dr. Foster and one of the Higbees (I think
Chancey L. Higbee) were in the store. Tho
said Joseph H. Jackson, together with tho
said R. D. Foster and said Higbee, went
into the back room of the store, They

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OF JOSBPH SIOTH.

183

appeared to enter into prirate counciL
Soon after they went into the said room, the
•aid Joseph H. Jackson invited me into the
room where they were then sitting. I
immediately compile^.

Soon after I went in, the said IUgbee
commenced talking about the spiritual wife
system. He said he had no doubt but some
of the Elders had ten or twelve apiece. He
said they married them, whether the females
-were willing or not; and they did it by
recording the marriage in a large book,
which book was sealed up after the record
was made, and was not to be opened for a
a long time, — probably not till many of the
husbands of those who were thus married
were dead. They would then open the
book and break the seals in the presence of
those females, and when they saw their
names recorded in that book they would
believe that the .doctrine was true and they
must submit. He said this book was kept at
Mr. Hyrum Smith's. I asked the Chdncey L.
Higbee * * * * ♦

[Here follows some expressions too in-
decent for insertion.]

The aforesaid R. I). Foster then asked me
what I would think, if, during my absence
from home, a carriage should drive up to my
house, a person alight, and the carriage
then drive cff agoiu ; this person should
then go into my house and begin to tell my
wife a great many things against me to pre-
judice her mind against me, and use every
possible means to do this, and finally would
Introduce and preach the spiritual wife doc-
trine to her, and make an attempt to seduce
her; and further, this person should sit
down to dine with my wife, bless the
victuals, &c; and while they were thus
engaged I should come home and find them
thus associated, this person should rise up
and say, ' How do you do ?' and bless me in a
very polite manner, &c. ; and also if,' upon
these appearances, I should feel jealous that
something was wrong, and when the person
was gone 1 would ask my wife what had
been the conversation between her and this
person, but she would refuse to tell me; I
then draw a pistol and present it to her
head and threaten to shoot her if she did not
tell me all, but she would still refuse : I
then would give her a double-barrelled
pistol, and say to her, ' Defend yourself; for
* H job don't tell me, either you or I would
.Shoot:' she would thee faint away through
, fear and excitement, and when she came to
again, she would begin and tell how this
person had been trying to poison your wife's
ttind against you, and, by preaching the
Spiritual wife system to her, had endeavoured
to seduee her. I replied, I should think he
was a rascal : but who has had such a trial

that? The said B. D. Foster answered

that he was the man who had had that trial,
and who had been thus abused.

The said Dr. Foster, Higbee, and Joseph H.
Jackson then remarked that they were
about to hold a secret meeting to oppose
and try to put a stop to such things* Tie
said Joseph H. Jackson also said that if any
person undertook to arrest him, he should
begin to cut them.

The said R. D. Foster further said he was
afraid of his life, and dared not be out ajt
nights.

The said Higbee said he had not a doubt
but there had been men kiHed in Missouri
who had secrets that they were afraid they
wonld divulge. He said he was afraid of

his life.

The said Jackson further said he should
not be surprised if there should be 4 rral
muss and an insurrection in the city in kn
than two months ; and that if a disturbance
should take place, the Carthagenians and
others would come and help them.

He mentioned some names of person?
who would come from Carthage, which
names T do not remember. The same da'v,
when in Mr. Loomis' room, I heard the sa?d
Jackson say that the Laws were ready so
enter into a secret conspiracy, tooth arid
nails.

The said Higbee also said, while at tBe
Key stone Store, that if ever he was brought
before the Mayor's Court again, and the
Mayor told him to hold his tongue, he
should get up and tell him he had a right to
speak, and should do so; and then if any
man attempted to put him out of court, he
would shoot him through. And farther this
deponent saith not.

M. G. Eaton.

Sworn to 1 and subscribed before
me, this 27 th day of March, a.i>.
1844.

Daniel H. Wells, J. P.*'

This evening, Dr. Reynolds, of Iowa
City, lectured on astronomy in the Assem-
bly Room.

Thursday, 28th. Dull day, drizzling
rain, cold N.E. wind.

Transferred the trial of Ianthus Rolfe
to Aaron Johnson, J. P.

This afternoon, had the Assembly Room
and Office plastered where the same had
been knocked off, &c.

Friday, 29ib. Night boisterous: about
eight, a.m., hail-storm, N.E. wind, nip-
ping frost; frosty hail, and strong wind
all day.

Spent the day at home.

Saturday, 30th. This morning I heard
there was some disturbance on the hill;

Digitized by

Google

184 EDITORIAL.

rode op and found it reported that a
robbery had been committed at the Key-
atone Store, kept by Mr. Rollasson, of
tome £400 or £500 and some goods, and
they were suspicious of a certain black
man. I issued a search-warrant and
returned to my office, where I. found the
black roan, Chism,with his back lace-
rated from his shoulders to his hips, with
twenty or more lashes. My clerk, Dr.
Hichard*, kept him secreted, and called
Aaron Johnson, a Justice of the Peace,

who issued a warrant for , a

Misssourian, who had boarded at my
house a few days, and on testimony fined

him g5 and costs for whipping

Chism. One Easton, a witness, said he
•could not testify without implicating him-
self, and he was apprehended and held in
custody. W. H. J. Marr, E-q., refused
to testify, because he was counsel.

I got prepared a Memorial to his Ex-
cellency John Tyler, the President of the
United States, embodying in it the same
sentiments as are in my Petition to the
Senate and House of Representatives of
the United States, dated 26th March,
1844, asking the privilege of raising
100,000 men to extend protection to
persons wishing to settle Oregon and
other portions of the Territory of the
United States, and extend protection to
the people in Texas.

Sabbath, 3 1 st. Cold, fine day.

At home this morning until nine, when
I went over to my reading-room, again
heard read and signed my Memorial to
Congress for the privilege of raising

100,000 volunteers to protect Text*,
Oregon, &c, dated 26th instant; and
also a Memorial to the President for tha
same purpose, if the other fail. .

Also signed an introductory letter ta
Elder Orson Hvde, who is going to carry
the memorials to Washington,' as fol-
lows : —

" City of Nauvoo, Illinois,

March 30, 1844.
To whom it may concern. We, th«
Major and Recorder of said city, do certify
that Orson Hyde, Esq., the bearer, a Coun-
cillor in the City Council of said city, U
sent as onr agent, by the authorities of
said citj, to transact such business as ha
may deem expedient and beneficial for tha
party whom he represents ; and as such
agent and gentleman of principle and cha-
racter, he by us is recam mended to tha
due consideration of all the executiva
officers of the Government, both houses of
Congress, and gentlemen generally of tha
United States.

In witness whereof, we hare
( Corpo- J hereunto set our hands and
< ration > affixed the seal of said cor-
( Seal. ) poration at the time and place
v^-v^/ aforesaid.

Joseph Smith, Mayor.
Willabd Richards, Recorder."

About this time, brother Alexander
Mills, one of the police, informed me that
Chancey L. Higbee drew a pistol on
him the night before, and threatened to
shoot him. I instructed him to maka
complaint to Esquire Wells, and hare
him apprehended.

(To ke continued.)

THE LATTER-DAT SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, MARCH 23, 1861.

A Gift More Valuable and Effective than Riches. — Faith, says th#
Apostle, is the substance (assurance) of things hoped for, the evidence of things not
seen. This principle is one that we, Latter-day Saints, are fond of talking about.
Nothing is more common in our testimony meetings than for the Saints to exhort
one another to " earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered to tha
Saints." To the lack of this faith we attribute the present condition of the so-
called Christian bodies, destitute of the spirit of revelation, the ministering of angels,
•and all those gifts and blessings peculiar to the Gospel in primitive days, and split up
into numberless sects and parties. To the revival and presence of this faith in tfcp.

Digitized by

CDITORIAL.

185

midst of the Church we ascribe the many favours and distinguished blessings and
gifts which we, as a people, enjoy. But though there is much greater faith in the
midst of the Branches of the Church in this Mission than is found in the world,
and the Saints approximate more nearly to the ancients on this point than any other
people, yet they are not so far advanced as they might be. They have much to
Jearn in relation to this principle, and they are in the right school to obtain such
.knowledge, if they will be faithful.

The experience of the past thirty years has brought the body of the Church in
Zion into the possesion and enjoyment of a considerable portion of that faith which
was once obtained by the Saints. The circumstances they have been called to pass
through have developed this principle. Not only has its development produced an
increase of the gifts and power of the Spirit and the knowledge*of the things of
God, but it has enabled them to accomplish works such as none but a people of great
faith would attempt. Their faith has exhibited itself in theory, but it has been
more strikingly illustrated in the practical re&ults which have been brought to pass
by its operation. The nature of this Latter-day Work demands that this should be
the case. It demands that those who are engaged in it should be capable, by faith,
of performing the mightiest works and bringing about the greatest practical results.
The entire history of the Church in thtse days sustains the truth of this idea. Step
by step has the Church been led by the Lord through the most difficult ciroum-
stances— circumstances which have called for the exercise of the greatest obtainable
faith, the surmounting of one difficulty being the training needed to afford the
necessary strength to cope with the next. Though the riches of the earth have been
His to bestow, he has withheld riches from his people when they might, in many
instances, with them, have accomplished what he required, that be might train them
in the exercise of a faith which would make them more like himself. He could have
converted the riches of the earth to the building up of his work in these days ; but
this would not have called for the exercise of faith on the part of those engnr 1 in
that work. He wished the work to be built up, but he. required a people trained in
the exercise of faith as much as he did the work : they both had to grow up
together.

The Saints in these lands can look at their brethren across the great ocean, trace
the path they have trod, and contemplate the works they have performed by faith,
without apparent means, and calculate upon following in their footsteps. Many of
their labours have been attempted when they had nothing to encourage them but an
assurance of things hoped for, and an evidence of things not seen. Indeed, all the
prominent actions which the history of our people abound in have been accom-
plished upon this principle. The Lord has made promises, and they have put their
trust in them, hazarding their lives, in many instances, upon their fulfilment. Of
course they were not required to go to such, lengths as this at first. They had repeated
opportunities afforded them of testing the truth of his promises and of cultivating
their own faith, until they could go forward without a doubt and perform whatever
might be required of them. That faith is more powerful than riches, and will
accomplish what riches will not, they have proved, like the ancient servants of God,
to their own satisfaction. Riches would never have brought the Church to the
position which she at present occupies ; neither would they sustain her in her pre-
sent position, much less cause her to advance to the position which she must even-
tually assume.

When God called his people to take their journey westward to a land which he

Digitized by

186

EDITORIAL.

should designate, they were poor and destitute of many things which seemed abso-
lutely necessary to enable them to obey the counsel. Had they not had an assu-
rance that the things they needed would have been furnished them, or that they
would be sustained without . them, they would scarcely have undertaken to obey.
But they had the assurance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
Difficulties beset their pathway every step of the journey ; but, though poor in this
world's goods, they were rich in faith. God had commanded, and they willingly-
obeyed. No danger could appal them, for they knew that " the Lord giveth no
commandments unto the children of men save he shall prepare a way for them that
they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." The treacherous and
lurking savage, the trackless and desert wilderness, and the uncertainty and priva-
tions of a new country, with a reasonable prospect of starvation, had no terrors for
them. With unyielding faith they clung to the commandment, determined that rto>
obstacle should interpose to prevent their fulfilling it. And they did fulfil it.
Volumes might be filled with the instances in which faith triumphed over apparently
insuperable obstacles during the time of our exodus. Single individuals and whole*
families made the journey, and they scarcely knew how.

We desire to exhort our brethren and sisters throughout this Mission to earnestly
contend for the faith which was not only delivered aforetime to the Saints, but is
again enjoyed by the Saints now on the earth. If they can get possession of tins
faith, they will not listlessly fold their arms and wait ten, fifteen, or twenty years in
this country for an opportunity to emigrate. But they will feel the importance of
the commandment, and the necessity of its being obeyed will be ever present with
them, and with constant prayer and tireless efforts they will exert themselves until
they accomplish their desires. We know that to many it seems almost impossible to
do anything towards emigrating. They feel that they are wretchedly poor, and, in
looking around them, they see not the slightest glimmer of hope. But where there-
is faith, there always is hope. Faith opens a prospect of deliverance to the most
hopeless. Despair has no depths for the humble faithful Saint that faith does not
lighten up and point out a way of deliverance from. » Escape may seem difficult, but
it will not be so much so as to discourage the Saint who has faith. Faith has this-
peculiarity — it gives its possessor eyes to see the accomplishment of that which it is-
right for him to attempt, and which he cannot see naturally : it also gives him the-
greatest confidence that he will successfully terminate that which it prompts him to
undertake ; and if he retains it, he will accomplish it, because his exertions or work*
will be commensurate with his faith. Faith without works is dead.

If the Saints in this Mission would all seek earnestly for this faith, and, instead of
waiting for somebody to come along and give them a life before they made any exer-
tion themselves, would go to as though the Lord and themselves were all that could
do anything, ,there would be a mighty ingathering to Zion, and that before a loog^
time would elapse. If all took this course, they would not think it absolutely
essential to accumulate a few years' clothing before they started ; but we are of the>
opinion that if they had a change they would be satisfied, and they would not stop*
long even for that. We wish to remind the Saints that if they keep all the com-
mandments of the Lord, so far as they may be acquainted with them, it is their pri-
vilege to go before llim, in the name of Jesus, in faith, and ask him for what they
want ; and, if they comply with his requirements, the Lord is bound by
his own word, which cannot fail, to bestow upon them that which they thus sup-*
plicate him for.

Digitized by

PHILOSOPHY OF HAPPINESS.

187

Movements op Presidents Lyman and Rich.— Presidents Amasa M. Lyman
and Charles C. Rich left Liverpool for Scotland on Thursday, the 7th instant, for
the purpose of meeting in conference with the Priesthood and Saints in that
District. Under date of the 11th they write : —

*' We met the GlaFgow Conference yesterday in the Trongate Hall, and had a fall attend-
ance. A most excellent spirit pre?«iiled, and the representations of the three Conferences
composing the Scottish District were most cheering.

President John Reed represented Glasgow Conference, haying 747 members ; increase
during the past year, 70; eight cut off; general prospects for future increase brighten-
ing. At present but two Travelling Elders in the Conference. Elder John Tobin has
been travelling generally in both Glisjpw and Edinburgh Conferences.

The Edinburgh Conference was represented by President E. L. T. Harrison, who
reports an increase of 100 during the year, and bat two excommunicated, and good
prospects for the future. The numbers in the Conference are 4.00, and now but one
travelling Elder.

The Dundee Conference, represented by Elder Charles Turner, increased thirtj
during the year, and four were cut off. Prospects good for the future increase and
spread of the work. Elder Turner is released to go home to Zion.

President Reed was released to go to Zion, and Elder Robert Sands was appointed to
preside over Glasgow Conference. District President David M. Stuart is labouring gene-
rally, and with good effect, through his District.

Our health is better than when we left you, and we hope the like blessings may have been
with yourself and household. Ever prajing for your prosperity in the good work of our
Jfaster, we subscribe ourselves your brethren 1n the Gospel,

Amasa M. Lyman.
CfJAHLEs C. Rich."

PHILOSOPHY OF HAPPINESS. •

BT BLDER H Elf BY WHIT TALL.

All men desire and seek after happiness.
"Whatever may he their position in life,
their rank in society, or their caste of
character, — whether high or low, rich or
poor, wise or ignorant, moral or immoral,
pious or impious, religious or irreligious,
they are equally seekers after happiness,
or what they regard as happiness. All
sentient beings, from the proud monarch
on his glittering throne down to the low-
liest peasant in his hut, however widely
they may differ in other respects, are much
alike in this — namely, a constant desire
and unceasing search for what they deem
happiness. Where the difference lies is in
the particular kind of happiness that is
sought, and in the particular mode of
seeking it.

And what is happiness ?

It is a term which may be variously de-
fined, according to the particular point
from which it is viewed. But perhaps
the broadest definition of it that can be

given is — The enjoyment of what is
deemed good.

It is undoubtedly true that what one
person, under some circumstances, and
with his peculiar tastes and desires, might
regard as a great good, another person,
under other circumstances, and with other
tastes and desires predominant, might not
regard as a good at all. Just so true is it
that what will render one person happy
will produce no such effect upon another;
and indeed, what will, under certain cir-
cumstances, contribute to one man's hap-
piness, may not, under other eircum-
t tanoes,have any such tend ency, but perhaps
the very opposite. "The same cause"
will not always "produce the same effect."
To make the adage a truism, it requires
to be supplemented by the following con-
ditional member — "under the same cir-
cumstances." 1

Good and eyil (like high and low,
large and small, &c.,) are relative terms,

Digitized by

Google

188

PHILOSOPHY OF HAPPINfcSS.

expressive of ideas of things that are re-
latively different in character. Absolute
good or evil (like absolute happiness or
misery^) is an impossibility. Good, as
such, cannot exist without evil; nor can
evil, as such, exist without good ; for that
■^which is designated "good" is deemed
such only in comparison with something
else that is deemed relatively evil; and
that which is designated "evil" is deemed
such only in comparison with something
ehs that is deemed relatively good. And
again : Neither good nor evil, as such,
<?an exist independently of sentient being.s,
who alone erect the standards of compa-
rison, and by whom everything that is ca-
pable of qualification is deemed either good
or evil when compared with its opposite.
And what is goodt

So far as concerns the influence or
bearing which good or evil has upon
man's personal nappiness, we may set
down this as an axiom : — Whatever a man
most desires, and most ardently seeks to
obtain, as answering best the requirements
of his nature, is to him the greatest
known good; while, on the other hand,
that which he most dislikes and most
earnestly seeks to avoid, as being most
diverse to the requirements of his nature,
is to him the greatest known evil : that is
to say, such is so Regarded by him. Con-
sequently, the possession of this desired
and sought- for good yields to him the
greatest conceivable happiness ; while, on
the other hand, the non- possession of
that most desired good, or the experience
of that most dreaded evil, inflicts upon
him the greatest conceivable misery.

The satisfactory supply of man's wants,
then, by the gratification of his desires,
makes up his sum of happiness; while the
non- gratification of them, or, in other
words, the unsupplied want itself, is evil.
Whatever man's natural wants may be, he
instinctively desires and seeks to gratify
or supply them ; and if he succeeds, hap-
piness (of its kind) is the result: but, on
the contrary, if those desires are not gra-
tified — if the want that gave rise to them
remains unsupplied or unsatisfied, the man
naturally becomes unhappy, or miserable.

It is true that men oftentimes acquire,
by disorderly habits, artificial or unnatural
wants, as in the case of the glutton, the
drunkard, &c. The resulting happiness
(of its kind) is consequently abnormal in its
character. The principle is, however,
the same.

Want, then, is evil ; and evil prodness

misery, or suffering. Gratification of de-
sire, or the supply of want, is the sought-
for good ; and the possession of such
good yields happiness. In other word*,
the avoidance or overcoming of the evil bj
the enjoyment of such good is happiness.

A^ain : Inasmuch as desire precedes
gratification, and want precedes desire, it
naturally follows that good cannot exist
without its opposite, evil ; and thus that
happiness cannot exist without its opposite,
suffering. Take away want, and there
can be no desire, no gratification, and
consequently no resulting happiness.
Take away evil, and that which is good
loses its relative character ; for happiness,
considered as the enjoyment of what is
deemed good, is no more obtainable with-
out evil, or suffering, than gratification is
obtainable without desire, or desire with-
out want.

As illustrations of this, take, for in-
stance, the feelings and conditions of body
known as hunger and thirst. That they
are experienced as evils, alas, too many of
earth's sons and daughters can testify.
But, on the other hand, that they are
necessary evils, is also evident from the fact
that, without hunger and thirst, food
would be neither desired nor sought, for
the support of nature ; and man would,
consequently, soon cease to be.

And further : In proportion to the na-
ture and extent of the want and desire
will be the nature and extent of the
sought-for gratification, so as to yield a
corresponding full degree of happiness.
The less or greater the want, and the less
or greater the desire, the less or greater
will be the gratification, or the good re-
quired to result in the sought-for happi-
ness.

Lastly : " Mormonism," as a system of
Gospel truth, answers to and is capable
of satisfying all man's highest wants and
necessities. It comprehends and circum-
scribes all truth, whether secular or
spiritual — scientific or religious. AU
truth is divine, and all is comprised in
what the world narrowly calls "Mor-
monism." By it, man's intellect, however
gigantic, — his soul, however mighty and
noble, may be fed and strengthened and
increased in its eternally-growing powers
and capabilities. By it, the loftiest as-
pirations of his nature can be satisfied,
and his highest conceptions of happiness
be fully realized.

Digitized by

OOiBEaPONDENCB.

18*

correspondence:

AMEBIOA.

New York, Feb. 8, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — We improve the first
opportunity to communicate with you,
knowing that you will be anxious to hear
from us. We arrived in New York the
first day of February. The passage was
rather a rough one. We encountered a very
severe gale on Sunday, the 27th Jan., which
ended after sundown on Monday. It was
indeed terrific. The good vessel shipped seas
©tct the top of her wheel-house; her
deck was washed the whole length, and
everything inside and outside was in
commotion. We both were taken sea-
sick on the Sunday after we sailed, and
from that time until we landed we were
alternately hallooing New Y-o-o-r-k, un-
til we got so much in the habit of it, that we
nave continued it since we came ashore !
We are now beginning to feel better.
On our arrival we found brothers Pratt
and Snow here, who had just arrived, —
brother Pratt from Boston, and brother
Snow from Washington. Both are well and
feeling fine. We met with the Saints last
Sunday in Willi amsburgh. Theywereglad
to see us. Many of them we knew.
There were a few strangers out to hear
as, and all felt well.

We remain your brethren in the
flfospel,

N. V. Jones,
Jacob Gates.
[The above should have appeared sooner,
tat has been mislaid.— Ed. M. S.]

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Copenhagen, March 3, 1861.
Presidents Lyman and Rich.

Dear Brothers, — The time since I saw
yoci has passed very agreeably, yet swiftly
away. We are now ushered into another
spring, with all its cares, labours, and
responsibilities. The emigration business
is now coming in daily, which, with other
labours and duties, occupies my time to
good advantage. Our emigration will be
larger this year than last, if there be no
impediment. There is no lack of spirit to
gather out of this land (I mean among
thm Saints). We are not under the ne-

cessity of preaching the gathering, for as
soon as any of the Saints can obtain suffi-
cient means to take them to America, they
want to go. Their desire is great to
gather to Zion. It is extremely hard
here for the labouring class, as it is diffi-
cult to obtain employment at all times ;
and when obtained, it is but poorly com-
pensated. From present appearances,
the prospect in the future is not very
flattering. In case there should be war
here, public improvements, building, &c,
will stop, which will throw many me-
chanics out of employment.

As regards the prospect for the spread
of the Gospel in this land, it never was
better than at the present time. The
spirit of inquiry is quite prevalent. Our
meetings, as a general thing, are well at-
tended by strangers. As far as I have
received reports from the Conferences for
the last quarter, they represent the people,
together with the authorities, as a general
thing, humane; and the prospect is
good. During the last quarter many
have been baptized, notwithstanding the
cold weather. In the Copenhagen Con-
ference there have been 74 baptized, and
in Yenjyssel 61. I mention those, as I
consider the number unusually large for
this country, all things considered.

The Missionaries here who are from
Zion are all well and doing well, as far
as I know. Brother Beestrom has tra-
velled very extensively in Sweden during
the winter. Two weeks ago he was at
the Gotheborg Conference. Next Friday
I expect to meet him at Malmo, where
there will be a Conference: it will be held-
in the night.

Brothers Liljenquist and Jesse N.
Smith are now at Aaroorg, where there
is a Conference meeting to-day. Brothers
C. A. Madsen and A. Christensen will be
there. Brothers Lund and Cluff are out
in Sealand. Brother Brown is in Fre-
dericia, H. C. Hansen in Lolland, and S.
Christophersen in Aarhuns. Brother
Johnson, who was one of the last that
came, is now President of Fredericia Con-
ference. The brothers Dorius were well,
and give a flattering account of the work in
Norway. They say there has been right
good life there ever since you wers

Digitized by Google

390

Brothers Smith and Guff are making

great progress in the language,: they will
probably soon be far ahead of me in the
language.

You will recollect that when we were
in Stockholm there were two Elders
appointed on a mission to Gotland — a little
island in the Baltic which I showed you.
They have succeeded in opening the work
there. From last accounts, they had bap-
tized four.

Brother Poulsen succeeds brother Wil-
helmensen in the presidency of Copen-
hagen Conference. There will be seven
or eight Conference Presidents who will
emigrate this spring: their places are
already supplied. We have many la-
bourers in the field, yet there is plenty to
do, aud room for more.

I. often think of tne brethren who were
my companions in travel over the Plains,
and have them in remembrance in my
daily supplications, as well as all the faith-
ful Saints of God throughout the earth.
I feel interested in the news from Ame-
rica. I want to see fulfilled the words
of the Prophets concerning the inha-
bitants of that land.

May the Lord bless you abundantly in
your high and holy callings, is the desire
of your servant in the cause of truth,
John Van Cott.

CORRBSPOKDBHOB.

JERSEY*.

Paris, March 4, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since my last, 14th
February, several houses in Paris have
thrown open their doors to "Mormonism."
My writings being nearly over, I am
making my best exertions to gain
some precious and important souls to the
kingdom of God. I hope and trust that
the present year will prove more favour-
able than the last to the cause of truth in
my native land. The French Catholic
bishops and priests are mad against the
present government. Things are as-
suming a gloomy turn in French
political affairs : the eyes of everybody are
looking at Rome.

Dear brother Cannon, my present
mission is a hard one ; but I am making
the best I can of it. My faith is still
stronger than my health. May the Lord
prosper you and your family, is the prayer
of your faithful brother in the Gospel,
Louis A. Bbetrand.

St. Belters, March 5, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brolher, — I drop these few
lines to inform you that we are rejoicing
much under the influence of a spirit of
improvement, which is steadily increasing
amongst the Saints.

Realizing that " example goes further
than precept," myself and my brethren
connected with me in thi3 Conference
have harmonized our feelings together,
and in so doing have felt and realized a
greater portion of the Spirit of the Lord,
which has produced similar effects amongst
the Saints.

We feel to thank our Heavenly Father
that this is the case with us ; and although
we have no very great increase to report
in our numbers, yet we feel that the Lord
is with us, and that the few Saints who
compose this Conference are increasing
in the knowledge and practice of the
truth.

Last Sunday was with us a day of real
enjoyment, the Saints from St. Heliers
and Gorey Branches met and partook
together of the sacrament ; and I can
truly say, that this was the best day we
have had since I have been on this island.
We had felt for some time to teach the
Saints in the spirit of the instructions
given in the Star on partaking of the
sacrament, and were much rejoiced and
comforted to read them, it being a testi-
mony to us that the same spirit that was
with our brethren at head- quarters was
with us here.

Brothers De la Mare and Henriod
join with me in love to you, Elders
Lyman and Rich, and all the Valley
brethren.

Your brother in the Gospel,

Maak Babnss.

ENGLAND.

Luton, Bedfordshire, March 7, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I improve the present
opportunity of addressing a few fines to
you relative to our movements in this
Conference.

On receiving my letter of appointment
calling me to preside over the Bedford*
shire Conference, I immediately left ihm
Norwich Conference, where I had been
labouring for a short time, and repaired

Digitized by Google

SUMMARY.

101

to my new field of labour. On my ar-
rival at Bedford, I met with Elder E. H.
Blackburn, President of this District, and
Elder Joseph Silver, the former Presi-
dent of this Conference; from whom I
met with a most cordial welcome. Elder
Silver transferred the books of the Con-
ference over to me, and at the same time
gave me much information relative to
business matters. For f,he first two weeks
after my arrival, I had the pleasure of
travelling with President Blackburn and
Elder William Bramall. We then
parted, they going to another part of the
Conference.

The Bedfordshire Conference at present
numbers about 500 members. There are
fifteen Branches, and they extend into six
different counties. The Conference is di-
vided into four Districts, a Travelling
Elder presiding over each one. The
Branches are from ten to twenty- five miles
apart ; so you see we have our share of
travelling on foot, as well as others.

During the last four weeks, I have, in con-
nection with Elder Joseph Silver, visited
nearly every Branch in the Conference.
I find that there is a good feeling existing
in the minds of the Saints. Wherever
we have been, we have met with a hearty
welcome from those who are in the Church
and those who are not. Our halls have
been crowded to overflowing, and many
strangers have attended our meetings,
and have listened with marked attention.
Some have come forward and obeyed the
Gospel, and many more are investigating
the doctrines. I consider that the pros-
pect for doing a good work in this part is
at present very flattering. We held a Dis-
trict meeting at Hemel Hempstead on
Sunday last. Our chapel was crowded,
and in the evening some 150 had to stay
collide, not being able to get in. The
next day several gave in their names for
baptism. Last night we held a meeting
at a village called Kensworth, and bap-
tized three. So it is, more or less,
throughout the Conference. Many who

have been in the Church once, and who
have stepped on one side for a Itiile season,
are coming back again to the fold. They
have, learned by bitter experience that the
" way of the transgressor is hard." They
are now rejoicing once more in the truth,
and I hope and pray that they will do right
from this time forth and seek after and
cherish the good Spirit of our God, that
they may, with the faithful, be saved in *
the day of the Lord Jesus.

I am happy to say that the Saints com-
prising this Conference are feeling first
rate. They are a good people, and are
on hand to do anything that is required of
them. Wherever I have been, they have
treated me with the utmost kindness.
They are striving to keep the command-
ments of God and to assist in rolling the
work forth. The Travelling Elders are
united with Elder Blackburn and myself,
and are willing to carry out our counsels.
They are men who have the work of God
at heart and are striving to do the people
good.

Since I have been in this part, my
health has been very good. Travelling from
ten to twenty- five miles a day and preach-
ing several nights in the week agrees with
me first rate, not only temporally, but
spiritually. I do rejoice in the work of
God ; and if I know my own heart, I have
but one desire, and that is, to do all that
I can for the rolling of it forth in the
sphere which I am at present called to
act in.

I have been canvassing for the Star.
I want to have that circulated more than
it is. This I shall accomplish in time.
That part of my preaching comes per-'
fectly natural to me, and I often feel "the
old times come over me again."

Remember me kindly to brothers
Lyman and Rich, and the brethren
associated with you, and believe me, as ever,
j6ur fellow-labourer in the cause of
truth,

Joseph Bull.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gbkiral. — The Archbishop of Canterbury appointed the 13th inst. to reoeive as
address on the subject of the Oxford M Essays and Reviews,* signed by upwards of <
6,000 clergymen. During the week meetings of the Archbishops and Bishops

both provinces were held, to determine upon some course of action against the.

, Digitized by Google

192 ' . POETRY. — MARRIAGE.

Alleged Hfcerodox volume* The^Paris paperi publish telegrams, dated Beyront, Veh'.^S, *"
asserting- tfat the Mussulmans had redoubled the r insults and provocations against the
Chris tjaus at Damascus.'. The Mussulmans were said to have thrown down tha crosses
and trampled them under foot, as tbej did. before the late massacres. The Paris paper* t
s*£d that it is asserted that consular reports confirm that the Christians are io d*#iger»,
The emigration ia said to have commenced. The Uauran threaten the most implacable ,
vengeance should Fuad Pacha order the execution of the condemned Druses. A separate-
Council of State has been granted by the Russian Emperor to the kingdom of Poland, of .
which Zamoisky has been appointed President. The Municipality of Warsaw has been
^confirmed in its functions. All official actg are to be executed in the name of the
Emperor, as* King of Poland.

American,— A shock of earthquake was felt in many localities in Humboldt County on
the 12th of November last. Great excitement has been created by President Lincoln's'
having proceded in great haste from Uarrisburg to Baltimore, and having parsed through -
that city direct to Washington, without any public recognition. The reason for thia -
movement 'Was that Mr. Lincoln's friends sieved, from information acquired, that if he »
had carried' £>ut his programme, and left by special train at nii.e that morbing, the train
would have peen either run off an embankment, blown up by grenades placed beneath.,
the track, or in some way destroyed, between the Maryland Hue and Baltimore; or that*
this failing, Mr. Lincoln would have been mobbed and assassinated io B »ltimore during
his ri^e from depot to depdt. According to the Herald, President Davis is 'making
every preparation for a bloody con-eat; and, referring to the Peace Congress, says that
all hope of an adjustment is passed. A collision becween the Government forces and
the Texas State troops is imminent. The result of the North Carolina election is yet in -
doubt. The counties from which returns have been received are about equally divided*
between union and secession.

POETRY.

A YOUNG SAINT'S A8PIRATION9.

"VFhHe many most highly extol their birth- place,
And laud their descent from the Anglican race,
Jiff country is Zlon, the land of the free.
Where the noble and pure in heart e'er agree.

50 the land of my birth Til soon bid adieu j
fo more, O prowl Babylon, I then shall thee view.
Jfy heart will exult when I leave thee afar |
Thou canst not from Zion me longer debar.
Ko blandishments e'er can induce me to stay)
To my home in the valley I'll hasten away.
Then farewell, ye brethren and sisters I love !
I ne'er can forget you, though far I may rove ;
For the Gospel of Jcnus had bound me so true,
Oft my thoughts will revert In remembrance of you.
Liverpool.

Ob grant tbeo, my Father, that soon I may be
In the land that 1 love, with the noble and free.
Still more of thy laws and precept* t » learn, - \
And tread in thy courts. n.»r e'er wish to return }
For then 1 shall greet the loved Saints gone^ before t
With joy and with gladness they 'II welcome unemorew
Far away t shall be from deceit aud from strife.
With the great and the go-.U to obUin endless Iffle* '
I thank thee, O Father, who heardewt nifeptuyer
When far from thy people in exile so'dVw* ; t
Yea, outlines before thee in secret I've prayed,
And graciously, Father, thou gavest me aid.
Now a long, long farewell to my bwu native Jaad I '
Soon I hope with the fakhful in Zion to aland.

Hannah Srlina Pa go.

Married — In Ogdcn City, December 24, I860, by Klshop tidward Hunker, Mr. Harvey M unlock, of
this city, and Miss Leonora M. H. Hall, formerly of Devon port, Kngland. J

CONTENTS. < r
The Gathering a Means of Salvation from Jones and Gates. Scandinavian Mission: {

Apostacy M 177 Letter from Elder John Van Lott.— France : . .

Our Relationship to God ~ ISO Letter from Elder Bertrand.— Jtrsey : Letter *

History of Joseph Smith 183 from Elder Barnes.— Eugiand: Letter from i

Editorial.— A Gift more Valuable and Effective , c Eirfer Bull , ]8£

than, Riches. — Movements of Presidents Summaiy of New* and Passing Events. ........... 19J

Lyman and Rich 184 Poetry.— A Voung Saint's Aspirations * Mm 19*

■Mlosophy of Happiness ..... 187- Marria ge ««,. n „,_4g£

Correspondence.— America : Letter from Elders

LIVERje£i:~ ~
EDITED AND PUBLIfillED BY OROHQE Q. 0AMVON, 42, IflLTIVOTOIC.
% LONDON: M - . . • % . "

FOB%ALBATTMK I.ATTiB DAY SAINTS* BOOK OBP T, 30, F LOR8NCK STBa^T^B^SS STRaBT^^p»P»il|^
, ' AKD ALL BOOBSSLUBBS. a - , .

rajNTKO BY JAUK9 k$J> NBPHBW, 91, SOOTH JOHN STHKBT, *IVBBJ*«I* ' * *

THE LATTER-DAT SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

m A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nation*;
\e wOl plead with all flesh i he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord. 9 *—

JSRXMIAH.

Ho. 13, VoL XXIII. Saturday, March 30, 1861. Price One Penny.

SOCIAL AND MORAL REGENERATION.

BT ELD SB B. L. SLOAN.

The meet strenuous supporters of the
existing institutions and systems which
are dominant in the world of mankind
admit that, socially and morally, humanity
is in a fearfully degraded condition.

To ameliorate this condition, "to make
the man a better mechanic, and the me-
chanic a better man," to elevate "the
masses," to cleanse and purify the .social
and moral cesspools which stagnate in
every place where man- directed and mis-
guided human beings congregate, their
e&orts are avowedly directed. The desire
-which prompts to this is good, the cause is
noble and praiseworthy, and the philan-
thropists . who devote their time and
talents to its success are neither few in
number, nor wanting in ability. To say
that the motives which prompt many who
are engaged in this regenerating work are
not honest would be unjust. To say that I
no good results have attended their labours
would not be literally true, and would
only tend to excite a needless antagonism.
Yet* somehow,a9 the world grows older, its
depravity does not decrease in virulence,
nor does its degradation slacken in the
downward race to ruin.

While the causes exist which produce
sueh evil results, and man acts upon his
own conceptions of their nature and the
remedies to be used, schemes will be pro-
nosed as numerous and conflicting as the

diversified opinions of those who propose
them.

Almost every year finds some new plan
eloquently urged by zealous and energetic
adherents as a universal panacea for all
the ills which fatten upon the life-springs
of society. At one time teetotalism is
advanced as the one thing needed, and
the multitude of crimes and iniquities
which disgrace civilized communities are
traced to the degrading practice of in-
dulging? in intoxicating drinks.

Again: We are told to "educate the
masses," and sin, like a baffled and beaten,
foe, will retreat before the advancing foot-
steps of education.

Turning in another direction, we find
it warmly urged that civil and political
liberty is all that is required to meet the
existing evils ; and that once in possession
I of this, communities will speedily re-
generate themselves ; while yet from ano-
ther quarter the sepulchral tones of
zealous religionists call upon us to evan-
gelize the world, by aiding them in
spreading their missionary operations and
telling us that a * free Bible" will bring
peace to mankind, and happiness to their
homes, and regenerate a world sunk in
ignorance, sin, and depravity.

These schemes, as the results of man's
undirected exertions, are so far praise-
worthy j and if they had accomplished no

Digitized by

SOCIAL AND MORAL REGENERATION.

394.

•other good than that of awakening man- |
4cind to a sense of thought — to an under-
standing that there was something needed
as a lever to elevate man from his fallen
condition, their mission would not have
been in vain. They are a free open ac-
knowledgment that a world lies before us,
which, with all its progress in the develop-
ment of science, is still ignorant of that
science by which man can govern and
control himself under the principles of
truth and righteousness.

but these schemes have proved them-
selves powerless to accomplish the desired
object. There is no one who has
witnessed the scenes of wretchedness,
squalor, crime, and want produced bv
indulging in intoxicating drinks, bat will
admit that the cause of these is a prolific
source of evil, and lament that man en-
dowed with a noble intelligence should
descend so far beneath the brute creation
as 10 become the insensate slave of such a
debasing appetite, and shroud his divinity
in such a demon guise. Yet *to suppose
that man can be prevailed upon to lay
Aside a strong powerful habit, the growth
of years, and in many instances received
as a hereditary curse, without a great un-
derlying principle of knowledge and duty
so impressed upon him as to become
almost a part of bis existence, is to sup-
pose an impossibility. Facts support
this, for drunkenness is as widespread
and demoralizing now as it was some
twenty-five years ago, despite all the
energy and eloquence of those who have
laboured to crush it. That education
alone (as the word is commonly applied,)
will not regenerate mankind, requires but
little argument to prove. Unfortunately
too many of the great public criminals
whose names and misdeeds figure on the
records of law and * crime within these
last lew years have been educated scoun-
drels — men who had drank in the
*• Pierian " draught at the fountain heads
of education in the land, who had mingled
in the best educated society, and possessed
every advantage whioh wealth, position,
and the educating spirit of the age could
impart, yet who used all these advantages
for iniquitous purposes till their names
«tand topmost on the roll of fraud and
crime. Nations have enjoyed civil and
^political, and even religious liberty, to a
great extent, of which our own land and
the confederated republics of North
t America are examples; yet the regene-

rating process is so backward in its results
that hope of success from that source has
long since departed from our bosoms.
A "free Bible* 9 has been printed, dis-
seminated, and preached from; colporteurs
and Scripture- readers have been employed
and paid by the thousand ; home missions
and foreign missions have been subscribed
for and maintained ; yet, despite all, the
heathen, resident natives of these highly
favoured Christian lands are numbered by
the million, and are rapidly increasing in
numbers, while their gross ignorance
upon matters pertaining to the religion of
which they are nominal adherents is
lamentable and appalling. The anecdote
of the wise old clergyman, who announced
to his congregation that he was about to
undertake a mission' tot he heathen, is not
without its moral. Astonished at his an-
nouncement, they crowded round him, in-
quiring when he had come to such a
determination, and what part of the dark
and benighted lands of heathendom he
was about to visit in his old age : but he
calmly told them not to disturb them-
selves, nor have any fears on his account,
as he did not intend to leave the town.

All these schemes and plans, then, have
failed in accomplishing the regeneration
of mankind ; and all, if united, would fail
in accomplishing it. Why? Because
man has "transgressed the laws, changed
the ordinance, and broken the everlasting
covenant 1 ' (Isa. xxiv. 6); for which cause,
the earth is devoured with a curse ; and to
remove that curse, and restore him to that
condition of existence from which he has
fallen, his erring footsteps must be directed
anew in the pathway of truth and know-
ledge.

Society is a mass of fragmentary sec-
tions, not bound by any strong enduring*
power of cohesion, but swayed by the
master passion of self-gratification and in-
terest. Its standard of morals is and
must necessarily Deregulated by its know-
ledge of true and correct principles, and
its power of living up to that standard
will always be in proportion to the amount
of self-control whioh the individuals com-
posing it can exercise over their own
passions, desires, and propensities. Hence
the imperative necessity for true and cor-
rect principles being taught, that the
human intellect may De raised above sec-
tional prejudices and ignorant traditions,,
to perceive the beauty and holiness o£
perfect righteousness, and learn that, by

Digitized by

SOCIAL AND MORAL REGENERATION.

195

the application of true principles in oar
own organizations, we can acquire control
ever ourselves and progress towards per-
fection.

For man to labour successfully in the

, work of social aud moral regeneration* he
must have an understanding of the basis
upon which the social fabric is reared, the
causes which operate upon man's nature
for good or evil, and the principles best
calculated to elevate him in the social and
moral scale.

He must be qualified and empowered to
instruct his fellow-man in the nature and
design of his being, and assist him to call
into action and cultivate every pure emo-
tion, every holy aspiration, every divine
feeling, and every spring of power and
greatness. This qualification and autho-
rity the Author of man's being can alone
bestow ; and all who labour to reproduce
eooiety upon a solid and righteous basis —
who strive to divert from its course the

. sweeping current of deathly evil which
now floods the world with misery, and try
to make man the noble, Godlike being he

, might become, unless authorized and

t . taught of God, will find the blossoms of
their hopes wither ere yet full blown, and
the fruition of their labours palsied by
the touch of failure.

The evil is wide-spread and deeply
uooted. It has entered into the very coo-

. -notation of man as a fallen being, and no
power short of His who gave man an
existence in this probation can provide a

, aaamcieut remedy. From the time when
the naming sword and cherubim guarded
the portal* of Paradise against the pro-
genitors of the human family till now,
philanthropists called and empowered by
Jehovah, and noble-minded men acting
upon the sympathetic impulses of their
nature, have toiled and . laboured to raise

. mankind in the scale of being. But, deaf
to the voice of a kind Father calling
through his servants — dead to the nobler

, ieeiings which actuated their fellows la-
bouring in their midst, they hare pursued

. 4he imaginations of their own perverted

r minds, followed the bent of their foolish
conceits, and wallowed in the filth of in-
creasing iniquities, til) God in his great
mercy has once .more revealed himself in
power, and in the fulness of the everlast-
ing Gospel provided a remedy for a
diseased and dying world.

Its efficacy in regenerating man, not
only socially and morally, but physically,

by developing every faculty which he pee-
sesses, is attested by the testimony of
Jehovah through his Holy Spirit; audits
power to cement together the broken
fragments of society has been proved by
practical results, of which the history of
the Latter-day Saints is an ample deamn-
stration.

No nation, no people ever lost eight of
the revelations of God, broke bis com-
mandments, and with rebellious spirit
rejected the message of life and salvation
to themselves, but rapidly descended in the
scale of humanity, and sank into degra-
dation and sin. While the experience of
the past and the condition of the present
demonstrate the fact that man, unaided
by God, is powerless to regenerate him-
self or bis fellow- man, the nistory of the
ancient Israelites and the nations which
surrounded them proves how rapidly
nations can sink into moral and social
depravity when they have rebelled against
the commandments of God and acted in
opposition to his holy decrees.

No people were ever so blessed of
Heaven as the posterity of Israel; and
while they hearkened to the voice of the
Lord their course was onward and up-
ward to power and greatness. But when
they waxed fat and forgot their God mid
the blessings they had received, and
mingled in the debasing practices of the
neighbouring nations, sinking into idol-
atry, whoredoms, and vile depravity, the
power which attended them as a people
departed ; and, torn by miserable dissen-
sions in their midst, they became an easy
prey to those whose iniquity they had
copied, but whose ignorance they could
not plead. When, in those times of
slavery and degradation, they awakened
to a sense of their fallen condition and
sought unto the Lord for the voice of
inspiration to direct their erring footsteps,
bis ministers, clothed with the holy Priest-
hood and enlightened by the influence of
truth, could point out in. plain, unmbmk-
able language the path of • salvation and
happiness, obedience to whose werda
brought social and moral exaltation.
But if their warning, voice was not
listened to, and their call to repentance
unheeded, further misery, weightier afflic-
tions, and deeper degradation were the
results of continued rebellion ; while the
nations around them were one after ano-
ther shattered to nieces and destroyed,
when their iniquities and abonimationav

Digitized by Google

196

RETROSPECT OF THB LATTER-DAT WORK.

became too great for the Author of man
to longer bear with or suffer to exist.

The condition of the inhabitants of the
world at the present time is in part syno-
nymous with that of ancient Israel.
Oiven over to the lasts of the flesh and
the devices of Satan, they stand upon the
-verge of ruin; yet, if they accept the
offered message of mercy, and speedily
repent, the avenues of redemption and re-
generation are opened to them, and a
world robed in the beauties of restored

virtue and purity, and bound together in
the bonds of peace and holy love, will bear
record to the saving power of those
eternal principles revealed in these latter
times by the ministry of angels, and pro-
claimed by the mouths of God's holy
Apostles and Prophets. While, if they
continue to reject the remedy provided by
Jehovah for their amelioration and ulti-
mate regeneration, their future is dark,,
downward, and terribly horrible.

RETROSPECT OF THE LATTER-DAY WORE.

BT CAJIOLIIfB BAILEY.

Our minds are filled with astonishment
when we take into consideration the great
plan of Jehovah to gather in his elect in
these the last days. An extensive field
has been opened up among the various
nations of the earth for the spread of the
Gospel of his Son, and his promises are
the pledges that what is undertaken in
singleness of heart and with true Christian
love shall not be in vain. The zeal of
cur great Prophet and our brethren has
already compassed almost the length and
breadth of this so-called enlightened
world. While ever keeping in view the
lesson taught by our Lord, that the field
is the world, in which the seed of the
Divine word must be sewn, the Lord
has worked and is working with them
among the nations of the earth in
various ways, by wars, pestilence, famine,
&c., to break the bonds which bind
the people, that the sound of the
everlasting Gospel may reach their ears,
and that the seed of Israel may be gathered
out of every nation whither they have
been scattered; and thousands are
flocking round the standard of liberty
and truth, while the great men of the
earth and those who call themselves
ministers of God are astonished at the
progress of the Latter-day Work. And
whue they are using all their puny efforts
to put an end to wis great work which
the God of Israel has established upon
the earth through the instrumentality of
bis Prophet Joseph Smith, it yet grows
and flourishes, and it will continue to
grow and nourish till all the honest in

heart who dwell on the earth shall be-

gathered into one fold, and shall receive
lose blessings which the Lord has pro-
mised to all those who live faithfully and
endure to the end. Then how great is
the reward! — a reward which counter-
balances every sacrifice we make when
we are called to participate in the untold
treasures which the Lord has in store
for the faithful.

By the blessings of God, and through
the exertions of our brethren, many
{ sources of misery have been dried up,
and streams of mercy flow. Many who
had wandered long in darkness have found
the truth and rejoice therein; for the
Gospel of Jesus Christ dispels the dark-
ness of superstition and ignorance by the
light of heavenly truth, and that light
will shine forth till all the systems which
man has framed shall be destroyed by its.
lustre and glory, and perish from off the
face of this our earth. They shall sink
into oblivion. No more shall they appear
when our Saviour restores all things to
his Father — when be shall say, " Father,
I have finished the work which thou hast
sent me to do : here are the keys of death
and hell." Then shall this earth appear-
in glory, redeemed from all the super-
stition and darkness which have been
upon it — a heaven prepared for kings and
priests, and for all who have fought val-
iantly in his glorious cause.

The law of the Gospel will go forth
till all shall give place to the order and
purity of the kingdom of God. This is
the object which the Spirit of prophecy

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

plainly points out, and it has its source in
the counsels of eternity — an object for
which the Son of God expired on Cal-
vary for the redemption of the human
family, and to redeem this earth, and
ultimately make it a fit abode for heavenly
beings to dwell on ; and for the accomplish-
ment of all these purposes he still lives,
works, and triumphs.

We are now hastening to a period
when the kingdom of Jesus Christ shall
appear in full splendour and unfold the
- -counsels of infinite wisdom to our view.
Distant as the consummation may be,

I9T

we nevertheless rejoice in the thought
that we form part of that kingdom which
shall not pass away, nor be given to
another people; for the Saints of the
Most High shall possess it for ever and
ever. Then let us not fail, but fight
valiantly the good fight, that we may be
found acceptable before God, and have
his Spirit to be continually with us while
we exist, so that we may be counted
worthy to receive of the crowns of glory
which he has in store for the sons and
daughters of Israel.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

{Continued from page 184.)

[April, 1844.]

Monday, April 1st. In the Court-
room in the Mansion, Mr. J. Easton was
brought up as being accessory to whip-
ping Chism. Referred the case to Alder-
man Wells. On investigation, it appeared
to the satisfaction of the Court that he
had been on trial for the same offence
before Robert D. Foster, and acquitted.
I extract from the Neighbour : —
" After the Court dismissed the case,
General Smith fearlessly stated that he
believed that it was a plot on the part of
those who were instrumental in getting up
the previous trial to thwart the ends of
justice and screen the prisoner from the
condemnation he justly deserves. Mr. Foster
then stated, by way of an apology, that at
the time he. issued the warrant he did not
know that the prisoner was under an arrest,
or that there was any process out against
him.

We hope, for the honour of such a man as
Mr. Foster, that his statement is true. Mr.
Poster, however, called upon one of his
Jurors, Mr. Cam, to corroborate what he
had said; but, to oar astonishment, he re-
plied that when Mr. Foster summoned him
to appear and act as a jurjman, he was
not informed what case he was to act upon,
nor did be learn until he entered the office,
where he acted according to the evidence
given ; but believed then, as well as now,
that it was a sham trial, and a mere mockery
of justice. We state facts as they are, and
let the public judge for themselves.

The statement of the negro was that
Messrs. Easton, Townsend, and Lawyer
W. H. J. Marr were the persons engaged

in this diabolical affair. Mr. Gibbs, one of
the witnesses against Townsend, believed
the above persons were engaged in it; but;
as a negro knows nothing in this 8tate,
and Mr. Gibbs could not positively swear
to it, of course we don't know ; but we hare
our opinion, and so have the public Wa
don't remember ever haTiDg seen mora
indignation manifest than was manifested on
this occasion, and the public mind is not
satisfied at the turn affairs have taken.
Lynch law will not do in Nauvoo, and those
who engage in it must expect to be visited
by the wrath of an indignant people, not
according to the rules of Judge Lynch, but
according to law and equity."

It was thought best to acquit Easton
and leave the case to the Circuit Court.

Francis M. Higbee and Chancey L.
Higbee were brought up before Esquire
Wells for assaulting the police, and ac~
quitted.

Chancey L. Higbee, a lawyer, was
brought before Daniel H. Wells, Esq., on
the charge of using abusive language to>
and insulting the City Marshal while in.
the discharge of his official duty. Ha
was fined ten dollars.

Also Robert D. Foster, Esq., was taken
before Isaac Higbee, J. P., and fined ten
dollars, for a breach of the ordinance per-
taining to gambling, &c.

We are sorry to find that our lawyers'
and magistrates should be taking the lead
among gamblers and disorderly persons,
and be numbered among the law-breakers,
rather than supporting virtue, law, and
the dignity of the city.

Digitized by Google

198

HTSTORT ©F JOSEPH AtTTH.

Tuesday, 2nd. At home, somewhat j
unwell, and kept my house this fine day.

John P. Greene, Marshal ; Andrew
Iiytfte, and John Lytle, policemen, were
arrested by a warrant issued by Robert
D« Foster, on complaint of Francis M.
Higfcee, for false imprisonment. As the
cam was going to trial, the prisoners were
taken by John O. Parker with a writ of
Habeas Corpus before the Municipal
Court ; and to-morrow, at one, p.m., was
feed for trial.

Wednesday, 3rd. At one, p.m., pre-
sided in a special session of the Municipal
Court, with Aldermen William Marks,
Newel K.Whitney, Orson Spencer, George
W. Harris, Gustavus Hills, George A.
Bmieh, and Samuel Bennett as Associate-
Justices. John P. Greene, Andrew
Xiytle, and John Lytle were brought up
Habeas Corpus, haying been taken
from the officer who held them on a writ
issued by Robert D. Foster, before whom
they had been arraigned on the complaint
of Chancey L. Higbee, charged with false
imprisonment.

Joel 8. Miles, Andrew Lytle, John
liytle, John P. Greene, and Robert D.
Foster were sworn, gave testimony in the
caae, and the Court decided that Greene
add the two Lytles be discharged, and
that Chancey L. Higbee is a very dis-
orderly person ; that this case on Habeas
Corpus originated in a malicious and
relations suit, instituted by Chancey L.
Higbee against the petitioners now dis-
charged ; and that said Higbee pay the
coats.

Warm and cloudy.

A Conference was held in the city of
Hew York; Elder William Smith pre-
siding, and Elder William H. Miles, clerk.
Fifteen Branches were represented, con-
taining 666 members, including 3 High
JPrfests, 26 Elders, 15 Priests, 16 Teachers,
and 9 DeaconB.

Thursday, 4th. In a General Council
in the Assembly Room from nine to
twelve, a.m., and from one to four, p.m.

I was visited by eleven Indians, who
"wanted counsel, and had an impressive
interview.

Elder 0. Hyde was in the Council, and
left immediately for Washington.

A company of Saints arrived on the
steamer St. Croix.

Showery day.

Friday, 5th. Attended the dedication
-of the Masonic Temple, which was at-

tended by about 550 members of ther
Masonic fraternity from various parts of
the world. A procession was formed at
Henry Miller's house, and was accom- '

□ied by the Nauroo Brass Band to the-
The dedicatory ceremonies were- '
performed by the Worshipful Master,
Hyrum Smith. Elder Erastus Bnow
delivered an able Masonic address. Dr.
Goforth and I also addressed the assembly.
All the visiting masons were furnished a
dinner at the Masonic Hall at the expense-
of the Nauvoo Lodge. The building
is admitted to be the most substantial
and best finished Masonic Temple in the
Western States. It has been erected
under the direction of Mr. Lucius N.
Scovil.

In consequence of ill health, I deferred
preaching the funeral sermon of King
Follett until Sunday. Elder Amasa
Lyman addressed a very large assembly
at the Stand.

Saturday, 6th. Conference met pur-
suant to adjournment. Present — Pre-
sident Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, Sid-
ney Rigdon, and William Marks. Of the
Twelve — Brigham Young, Heber C.
Kimball.Willard Richards, Wifford Wood-
ruff, John Taylor, and George A. Smith.

The members of the High Council, an
immense number of Elders, and a very
large concourse of people.

Presidents Joseph and Hyrum Smith
came to the Stand at a quarter-past ten
o'clock, when the meeting was called to
order by Elder Brigham Young. The
choir sang a hymn, after which

" President Joseph Smith rose to state to
the congregation the nature of the business
which. would hare to come before them.
He stated that it had been expected by some
that the little petty difficulties which hare
existed would be brought up and ioTesti-
gated before this Conference, but it will not
be the case : these things are of too tririal
a nature to occupy the attention of so large
a body. I intend to giro you some in-
| struction on the principles of eternal truth*
| but will defer it until others hare spoken,
j in consequence of the weakness of my lungs.
I The Elders will gire you instruction ; and
I then, if necessary, I will offer such cor-
j rections as may be proper to fill up the
interstices. These who feel desirous of
sowing the seeds of discord will be disap-
* pointed on this occasion. It is our pur-
pose to build up and establish the principle*
of righteousness, and not to break down
and destroy. The Great Jehovah has ever

Digitized by

HISTORT OF JOSEPH SMITH.

199

iMivlriA me, and the wisdom of God will
direct mo in the seventh hour. I feel in
closer communion and better standing with
God than ever I felt before in my life, and I
am glad of this opportunity to appear in
your midst. I thank God for the glorious
day that he has given us. In so large a con-
gregation It is neeessary that the greatest
order and decorum be observed. 1 request
tMs at your hands, and believe that you will
all keep good order.

Prayer was offered by W. W. Phelps,
after which the choir sang a hymn.

Bkter Sidney Rigdon then rose and said,
It is with no ordinary degree of satisfaction
I eajoy this privilege this morning. Want of
health and other circumstances hare kept me
in silence for nearly the last five years. It can
hardly be expected that when the violence
of sickness has used its influence, and the
seeds of disease have so long preyed upon
me, that I can rise before this congregation,
only in weakness. I am now come forth
from a bed of sickness, and have enough of
strength left to appear here for the first
time hi my true character. I have not come
before a Conference for the last five years
in my true character. I shall consider
th is imp ortant privilege sacred in my family
history durin g life. 1 hardly promise myself
lungs to make this congregation hear me.
I shall do the best I can, and the greatest
can do no more.

The circumstances by which we are now
surrounded point ont the principles of my
discourse — the history of this Church, which
I hare known from its infancy. My text is —
'Behold the Church of God of the last
days.' I do not know that I can find it in
the Bible. I do not think it necessary to
hare Paul to make a text for me ; I can
make a text for myself. I recollect in the
year 1830 1 met the whole Church of
Christ in a little old log-house about 20 feet
square, near Waterloo, N. T., and we began
to talk about the kingdom of God as if we
had the world at our command. We talked
with great confidence, and talked big things.
Although we were not many people, we had
big feelings.

We knew fourteen years sgo that the
Church would become as large as it is to-
day. We were as big then as we shall ever
be. We began to talk like men in authority
and power. We looked upon the men of the
earth as grasshoppers. If we did not see
this people, we saw by vision the Church of
God, a thousand times larger. And when
men would come in, they would say we
wanted to upset the Government, although
we were not enough to well man a farm, or
meet a woman with a milk-pail. All the
Elders, all the members met in conference
in s room twenty feet square.

I recollect Elder Phelps being put in jail
for reading the Book of Mormon. He came
to see us, and expressed great astonishment
and left us apparently pondering in bis
heart. He afterwards came to Kirtland,
Ohio, and said he was a convert. Many
things were taught, believed, and preached *
then, which have since come to pass. We
knew the whole world would langh at us ;
so we concealed ourselves, and there was
much excitement about our secret meetings,
charging us with designs against .the Go-
vernment, and with laying plans to gpt
money, &c, which never existed in the heads
of any one else. And if we had talked in
public, we should have been ridiculed mere
than we were. The world, being entirely ig -
norant of the testimony of the Prophet*,
and without knowledge of what God wua
about to do, treated all we said with pre-
tended contempt and much ridicule ; and bad
they have heard all we said, it would havo
made H worse for us.

We talked about the people coming as
doves to the windows; that all nation*
should flock unto it; that they should
come bending to the standard of Jesu?,
saying, * Our fathers have taught falsehood
and things in which there is no profit,' and
of whole nations being born in one day.
We talked such big things that men could
not hear them, and they not only ridiculed
us for what we did say in public, but
threatened and inflicted much persons!
abuse ; and had they heard all we said, their
violence wonld have been insupportable.
God had great things to say for the sal-
vation of the world, which, if they bad beeu-
told to the public, would have brought
persecution upon us unto death ; so we were
obliged to retire to our secret chambers and
commune ourselves with God. If we bad
told the people what our eyes behold tbi*
day, we should not have been believed; but
the rascals would have shed our blood if we
had only told them what we • believed.
There we sat in secret and beheld the
glorious visions and powers of the kingdom
of heaven pass and repass. We had not a
mighty congregation to shelter us. ' If a mob
came upon us, we had to run and hide our-
selves to save our lives.

The time has now come to tell why we
held secret meetings. We were maturing
plans fourteen years ago, which we can now
telL Were we maturing plans to corrupt .
the world — to destroy the peace of society V
No. Let fourteen years 9 experience of the
Church tell the story. The Church never
would have been here if we hsd not done ss
we did in secret. The cry of w False prophet
and impostor 1" rolled upon us. I do not
know that anything has taken place in the
history of this Church which we did not

Digitized by

300 EDITORIAL*

then before. It was Written npon our
heart!, and never could be taken away. It
was indelibly engraved : no power beneath
yonder heavens could obliterate it. This
was the period wKen God laid the foun-
dation of the Church, and he laid it firmly,
truly, and upon eternal truth.

If any man says it is not the work of God,
1 know he lies. Some of you who know
you have a house, how long would it take
to make you reason yourselves into a belief
that you hare no house where you now re-
side with your families ? Neither have we
any power whereby we can ever persuade
ourselves that this is not the Church of
God. We do not care who sinks or swims,
or opposes, but we know here is the Church
of God, and, I have authority before God
for saying so. I have the testimony of
Jesus, which is the spirit of prophecy. I
have slept with it — I have walked with it.
The idea has never been out of my heart for

a moment, and I will reap the glory of it
when I leave this world. I defy men an<|
hell and devils to put it out of my heart.
I defy all, and will triumph in spite of
them.

I know God. I have gazed upon the
glory of God, the throne, visions, and
glories of God, and the visions of eternity
in days gone by. What is a man of God to
do when he sees all the madness, wrath, and
follies of our persecutors ? He will do an
God does — he will sit and laugh. One
breath from the nostrils of God would blow
them out of existence to helL These were
the beginning of good days — shut up in a
room, eating nothing but dry johnny-cake
and buttermilk. Every man who bad a
little farm, or clothes, sold them and dis-
tributed what he had among the rest, and
did the best he could. I had little to eat-
little to wear, and yet it was the beginning
of good days.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAT SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, MARCH 30, 1861.

Responsibilities and Duties of Parents. — There is no subject that should
claim the attention of parents among the Saints more than the correct training of their
children. It has been considered a matter of very great importance in every age
-when the Lord has had a Priesthood upon the earth, and a people who observed his
laws. Upon one occasion the Lord himself manifested the importance he attached
to the principle, by citing it as one reason, among others, why he should reveal his
purposes unto Abraham, saying, " For I know him, that he will command his chil-
dren and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord to do
justice and judgment, that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he had
spoken of him. 1 ' Upon the faithfulness and integrity of the children born of the Latter-
day Saints a great deal depends. Great expectations are entertained respecting them.
They are the hope of Israel ; for the aspiration of parents, who have a proper un-
derstanding of the great work of the last days, is that their posterity will grow up to be
men and women of faith, more capable of doing good and helping to usher in the
reign of righteousness than they themselves have been. How often has the contrast
between what they might be, had they no tradition to contend with, and
what they are, suggested itself to the minds of those who reflect and who have
received the fulness of the Gospel after they have attained unto mature years. The
traditions instilled into the mind from early childhood to mature age, and the habits
which accompany such traditions, cling with tenacity to the person who has imbibed
or learned them, and years of experience in the principles of truth are insufficient to
destroy their influence. There are many who mourn over such traditions and habits,
because they can plainly see they have been embarrassed, and their progress retarded
by them, and they are anxious that their children should be delivered from them.

Digitized by

EDITORIAL*

201

The mind of the child under the instruction and example of the parent is like clay
in the hands of the skilful artist— plastic and susceptible of every impression, and
-capable of being moulded into beauteous or hideous forms according to the taste of
the modeller. Do the Saints in these lands realize this ? and that every impression,
whether good or evil, leaves a mark which it is difficult ever after to erase ? When
ire see the carelessness manifested on this point by many of tbe Saints, we are con-
vinced that they are not aware of the importance of the charge entrusted to their
care, and the responsibilities which devolve upon them as parents. When we see an
indifference on their part regarding the teaching of their children the principles of
righteousness and truth, as revealed in their purity through the Gospel, — when we see
them permitting their children to mix in any society they may chance to fall into,
and acquire any habit that may suit their fancy or the prevalent fashion, without an
•effort to guard them against the examples they may witness, or to warn them of the
evil tendencies of the habits they may be inclined to acquire, we are forced to the
conclusion that such parents have but little insight into the character or destiny of
the work they have espoused, or but little idea of the future there is before their
-offspring.

We know it is a more difficult matter for parents to train their children properly
^rhile scattered, surrounded as they are by examples which are diametrically opposed
to the increase of faith and purity, than it would be were they collected at the place
of gathering. But this very fact, instead of discouraging them in their efforts, should
arouse every energy of their souls to fortify their offspring against the crafty approaches
of the Adversary, who would seek, through the medium of the sights and sounds
which constantly meet their eyes and salute their ears, to increase his power over
them.

We have noticed too much of a disposition among the Saints to bring up their
children as they themselves were brought up, seemingly forgetting or overlooking the
fact that they have the truth in its fulness to lead them, which their parent?, when
they were children, did not have. All the habits they themselves acquired when
young, no matter how much opposed to the Word of Wisdom or to other revelations,
many of them foster in their children to as great an extent as though such an event
«s the restoration of the Gospel had never happened. They were furnished tea and
coffee as a beverage to their meals by their parents — their children must be furnished
the same. They were permitted to use tobacco and strong drink — their children
must have similar permission. They were taught or allowed to believe that the
Almighty was a Being, the exercise of whose power was confined to the heavens, and
that it was useless to expect anything of him through faith ; that if anything had to
he accomplished, " natural" means had to be sought after to accomplish it : their
children are suffered to imbibe the same belief. In short, all the manners, every
habit jof thinking, every habit of eating and drinking, and of performing other
things which they learned when they were young, and to which they have now
become enslaved, must all, forsooth, be learned and practised by their children !
" Brethren and sisters, suppose ail who have joined this Church were to pursue a
course of this kind, how or when would the purposes of our Heavenly Father respect-
ing the inhabitants of the earth and the earth itself be fulfilled ? If we do as our
-parents or forefathers, educated in false creeds, and bearing the yoke of
priestcraft, did before us, of what benefit is the revelation of the Gospel
-to us? Can we reasonably expect our rising generation to imbibe the same
traditions, acquire the same habits, and partake of the same unbelief as the
wsrld, and yet he unlike the world, and be capable of performing that

Digitized by

203

EDITORIAL. '

work whioh it is designed the children of the Saints shall perform? It was
that a peculiar people might be raised op that toe fulness of the Gospel wasv
revealed ; and the cause of their being peculiar will be that they are unlike the rest 1
of the world. The evil habits of the world are like a seven-fold cord around thenr
neoks, drawing them down to irretrievable destruction. When we witness children
of the Latter-day Saints brought up in some of the same habits, we are grieved that
parents will not take the counsel of the All-wise and profit by it We have known*
of numbers who, when gathered with the Saints, well situated and with good 1
prospects ahead, have abandoned all and started for California or the States on the
eastern borders of our Territory, that they might more easily gratify such tastes as-
many parents in the Church in these lands are developing in their children. We*
never see parents fostering such tastes without thinking that, they are fastening a
yoke upon their children's necks, which will weigh more or less heavily upon them
throughout their lives.

It may not be wisdom always for parents themselves to attempt to form new
habits and lay aside those which have been the formation of years and become
"second nature;" but they should, nevertheless, teach their children the advantage* •
of them. If the proper impression be made upon the minds of the children when-
young, and be repeated as occasion may afterwards need, it will rarely be obliterated
in after-life. This will not only apply to beverages and diet, but to everything else.
We must begin the work of regeneration in ourselves, and seek to extend it to omr >
children. From a puny, degenerate, and unhealthy race, with lives of short con*
tinuance, we must become a hardy, powerful, long-lived raoe, continent in our enjoy-
ments and capable of realizing the golden age. From an unbelieving, doubting race*,
with contracted views and low desires, we must become a firmly believing race, witk
holy, dignified, and exalted aspirations and unquenchable faith — such faith as will cause
our Father to open the heavens to our view and reveal himself unto us. Theao
changes must be brought about by educating ourselves to as high a point as im-
possible, and by training our children in a similar manner, pointing them forward to
the objects to be attained.

Wonderful examples are not wanting of what may be done with children by proper-
training. A very notable one is that of the children of those Lamanites who were-
converted by the sons of Mosiah, and who afterwards removed and dwelt among the> -
Nepbites, and were known as the people of Ammon. These young men had been
taught by their mothers that if they should go forth to battle, and they did not doubt^
God would be with them, and not suffer them to fall by the hand of their enemies.
In their first battle, when numbers fell around them, their faith m the words of their
mothers, respecting the power of God to deliver them, was so great that they escaped.
In another battle one thousand of their brethren were slain, and two hundred of their -
own number (nearly one-tenth) were so badly wounded that they fainted from loss
of blood ; but, though these young men had been in the hottest of the fight, so great
was their faith in what their mothers had told them, that they again escaped, to the*
astonishment of both friends and foes, without the loss of a single life. This is n
striking example of what may be accomplished by giving children a judicious training.
Jacob taught his son Enos concerning eternal life and the joy of the Saints, &e. ; and
Enos has left on record the testimony that his father's teachings led him to seek God
in faith, and through doing so he received direct revelation and became a mighty
man. Instances of this kind might be multiplied ; but these we have cited are-
sufficient to illustrate the principle.

Parents, have you a desire to see your children become distinguished for faith and ;

EDITORIAL. 20&

good works? Train them, then, while young. Give •hape to the mind while it is
jet tender. Sow the seeds of truth in their hearts before they have become hardened
by contact with the world. Fortify them against the contagion of evil example.
Show them the folly of acquiring useless and injurious habits. By so doing, yon
will have a posterity that will more than fill your places when you are gone, and
whose good deeds and faithfulness you may contemplate with unalloyed pleasure from
jour residence in the abodes of the blessed.

The Ciiculation op the " Stab."— We wish to call the attention of the District
Presidents, Conference Presidents, Branch Presidents, Travelling . Elders, Book
Agents, and the Saints generally, to the increasing of the circulation of the Star.
We are decidedly of the opinion that its circulation might be very materially in-
creased in all the Districts, and be attended with good results. We know the Elders
have many things to think about and talk about ; but if they will think and talk
about the Star occasionally, they will find it to their benefit in talking about other
things that ought to be attended to : it will prove a useful auxiliary to them. This
is the object for which it was established— the mission it has to perform. It preaches
its sermons in the household and by the fireside, in places where the Elders cannot
always be present. The types, though tongueless, are often suggestive of thoughts
and sentiments heard in meetings long past from the mouths of the Elders; and not
smfrequently by their aid, sweet instructions, sometimes long buried, are brought back
again to memory in vigorous life. Those Branches who read the Star regularly will
give their Presidents the least troubla.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — Elder Duncan, in a letter from
Birmingham, March 10th, informs us that twelve members have been lately baptized
m that Conference, and that the prospects are good * for many more. He says that
the work is steadily progressing in that neighbourhood.

Elder Gibson writes from Cheltenham, under date of March 14, informing us that
in all the three Conferences in that District " things are looking much better, as far
as the work of God is concerned," and that " quite a different feeling is manifested
by the Saints." He says — " We have better meetings than there have been in many
places for years. Baptisms are frequent, and a spirit of union and love manifested
among the Saints, more so than I have seen since I came to this country. Tempo-
rally, they are in general very poor, and work in many places is bard to get, and
when got, but poorly paid ; yet, amidst it all, the Saints are rejoicing."

Elder Dallin writes from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, March 18th, to say that the work
cf God is thriving in that Conference, and that within. the last few months about 2&
have been baptized.

Elder jCHff writes from Longton, Staffordshire, under date of March 18, informing
us that the Conference over which he presides is " composed of nine Branches, and
some of diem a long way apart, which requires a great deal of leg- service to keep
things moving along." He says that " the Saints are feeling first. rate," and that he
1ms m never seen Saints feel better. The Spirit of the Lord is with them, and their
desires are to roll forth his purposes on the earth. The spirit of the gathering is
increasing with them all the time ; but they are poor in this world's goods, yet rich

Digitized by

204

THE PATRIARCHAL INSTITUTION OF POLYGAMY.

in faith. I have visited those who for some cause or other are out of the Church,
and many of them are desirous to return. I can say the Lord has blessed my labours
since I have been in this land, and has raised me up friends on the right hand and on
the left, not only in the Church, but out of it; the Lord has shown me to them in
dreams before they have seen me in reality. I am happy to say that the spirit of
union is increasing with us all the time, and my faith is that we shall do a good work
this'summer ; for the Spirit of the Lord is truly working with the people who are
seeking to know the truth, while some are inclined to persecute us for telling them
the truth."

THE PATRIARCHAL INSTITUTION OP POLYGAMY.

A correspondent has written a communication to the New York World, which
appears in that paper of the 1st March, proposing to the Rev. Mr. Van Wyke (wbo>
has been lecturing upon slavery in that city lately,) a new subject for his next
sermon — viz., the vindication of the Latter-day Saints. That the task may be mate
easier for the gentleman, the writer suggests that he amplify upon the following,
which are some of the Bible arguments in favour of polygamy : —

"1. The ten commandments include all
moral law.

2. The ten commandments, by their si-
lence, impliedly countenanced poljgamy.

3. They were understood to countenance
polygamy by Moses and the Jews, since.

4. The Israelites practised polygamy,
both before and after the time of Moses.

5. The prophets never hinted a word
against polygamy.

6. Darid, who was notorious for his
multitude of wives, is said to hare beeu ' a
man after God's heart.'

7. Darid was not permitted to build the
temple, because he was a man of war ;
whereas Solomon, who was not a man of
war, but had as many wires as Darid, was
ordered to build it.

8. Poljgamy was practised while our
Sariour was on earth.

9. Jesus Christ never denounced poly-
gamy; and those sentences in the New
Testament which are tortured into a teach-
ing of a monogamy are not more explicit

against polygamy than the three last verses
of the second chapter of Genesis : therefore)
we infer that the inspired Prophet of tkm
Lord did not interpret to prohibit polj-
gamy.

10. If our Lord had intended to denounce
polygamy, he would hare done so sm-
quirocally.

11. If Moses considered polygamy to bm
immoral, he failed to denounce it, either oat
of forgetfulness or ont of mo tires of policy.
To suppose that Moses forgot to denounce
polygamy, is to blaspheme against the ona—
nisoience of the Almighty. To suppose that
Moses did not denounce polygamy out of
motives of polioy, is to be guilty of accusing^
the Almighty of a time-serving polioy which
would not do credit to eren an earthly
monarch.

12. Do the Protestants of to-day claim
that they are better than the man • after
God's own heart,' in so far as the number of

wires are concerned?"

If the " reverend" gentleman should preach on the above subject, and adopt the
line of argument foreshadowed in the above communication, every Bible-believer in
his congregation will be convinced that polygamy, though maligned and hated by
this degenerate and corrupt generation, is a Scriptural doctrine — a doctrine revealed
and sanctioned by the Almighty. Moreover, we shall expect to have many souls
added to the Church through such a sermon, because those who hear the proofs in its
favour that can be found in the Scriptures will not rest satisfied with the knowledge
they will have gained of it, but will continue their researches until they become satis*

Digitized by

PROSPECTS OF WAR IN THB WE8T.

205

jSed that every principle taught by the Latter-day Saints is of God and in perfect
a g r ee m ent with his revealed word. We know of no better plan that could be
devised for testing the sincerity of a congregation of professed believers in the Bible
than to preach this doctrine, and adduce the Scriptural evidences in its favour, and
ask them to believe them. ,

PROSPECTS OP WAR IN THE WEST.

Here has appeared to be a settled determination on the part of many persons in
the United States to close their eyes against every indication of serious and lasting*
trouble between the South and the North. Some of the plans of compromise which
have been proposed they have hoped would be acceptable to both parties, and would
prove a basis of settlement between the slavery and anti- slavery sections; but the
folly of indulging in such hopes is becoming apparent to them. The dangers that
fie in their path, and that threaten their future happiness and peace, are forcing-
themselves upon their consideration. These dangers cannot much longer be
disguised, and they begin to see that nothing can be gained by blinking their exist-
ence. The Neyj York Herald discourses as follows on this subject :—

M Flatly and emphatically, we most say i We naturally conclude that the events-
to all concerned that there is no compromise, t and developments of this week at Waah-
mnd there it no intention to make a com- ! ington will giro a new impetus to the
promise in behalf of the incoming adminis- ! revolutionary spirit and movements of the
trmtioo. Looking all the so-called eom- \ South; that under this new paroxysm
promise proceedings at Washington of the several more States will go off into the
last few days fairly in the face, they vanish I Southern Confederacy ; thit the * enforce-
into thin air. The forthcoming inaugural, ; ment of the laws* by Mr. Lincoln will in-
like the late speeches of Mr. Seward, will ? volve the Government at Washington in a
doubtless be as charming to behold as the ! war with the Government at Montgomery,
plains of the Promised Land, flowing with j and what then ? Universal confusion, de-
nailk and hooey. But on a nearer approach | rnoralizaiion, strife, bankruptcy, dissolution,
the mirage will melt away into the sands of all ending in two, three, four, or a half-a-
tbe desert. Acts and facts are what we i dozen belligerent military despotisms, elec-
want, and by these President Lincoln must i tive, as in Mexico, by the bayonet,
be judged. Accepting the Cabinet which is i This is the entertainment, we fear, to
said to be adopted as a substantial fact, what j which we are soon to be invited ; and while
does it signify as the initiative act of the j yet our conservative men are hoping and
now administration ? The control of the striving for some way of escape, it would be
administration by the anti-slavery Radicals j well for all of ns, North and South, of all
of the Republican party, the subordination of parties, all classes, all pursuits, and all pro-
Seward, or his early removal from the I fessions, high and low, rich and poor, to
Cabinet, and no concessions beyond the prepare for the worst. From the indications
limits of the Constitution, as understood in j of the beginning we are only looking
the North, to slavery or * the slave power.' logically to the end."

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Faversham, Kent, March U, 1861.
President Gannon.

, Bear Brother,— As we have just com-
pleted our visits round the Conference,
we feel as though you would not feel a

few lines from this corner of the Mission
uninteresting. Kent Conference embraces
a great part of three counties, is 200 miles
in circumference, and numbers upwards of
400 members. There were 66 baptized
last year, 2} emigrated, and 10 cut off.
Prospects are becoming brighter as the

Digitized by

506

CORRBSPONBBNCE. •

season opens up. When the weather be-
comes more settled, most of the Local
Priesthood will be engaged in preaching
in the open air.

Elder Needham and I have spent two
months together in visiting the Branches
and families in this Conference. We find a
kind and generous spirit amongf the peo-
ple. Although poor in relation to the
things -of this world, thej are rich in
spirit and in the things of the Gospel.

In leaving this Conference, I have but
one feeling of regret, and that is, to see
so many humble, faithful members of the
Church subject by force of circumstances
to stay behind. I feel very thankful to
God and my brethren to have the privi-
lege of "going home," after upwards of
ten years in the ministry, the last four
being spent in this Conference.

My prayer is that prosperity and great
success may attend the labours of brother
.Needham and those connected with him
in their endeavours to carry forth the

florious message of the last dispensation,
te unites with me in kind regards to you
and all at the Office.

Yours faithfully,

W. H. Kelsey.

Miiford, Surrey, March 12, 1861.

President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— I received your letter
of appointment to the Southampton Dis-
trict, and on the first of January entered
my field of labour. Since then I have
visited most of the Saints comprising the
District.

We have seven Travelling Elders in the
District, which, with the three Presidents,
make ten men, who are constantly minis-
tering among the people.

We have about 50 places where "Mor-
monism" is not yet planted. We hope
(when our heavy emigration is over,) to be
able to open many of them. We shall
need several more Elders to enable us to
work to advantage, and shall seek to con
solidate our labours, doing less walking
and more talking.

We have many most excellent Saints.
It has been truly encouraging to me to
see their confidence, firmness, and love in
the work. Some of them have walked 24
miles on Sabbath to meeting, to hear of
Zion ; and the glistening eyes and attentive

and eager attitude of the Saints, a* sm
whole, while attending service, tell wn-
mtstakably that their souls beat a warn
response to the free and ennobling prin-
ciples which radiate from Zion for the
salvation of the world.

In days gone by, the Reading Saints
have been Hyde-d (or punished), bat
they have borne it well, probably on the

Srineiple of the Irishman who allowed
is wife to whip him, because it did
her so mach good, and himself so little
harm.

Our meeting-rooms of late have been
crowded. There have been more people
outside than we could get inside.

In Southampton we have been obliged
to request the Saints to meet in private
dwellings, in order to accommodate
stangers with seats m " Zion's ohapeL**
Baptisms have followed close upon oar
meetings. In one instance in Dorsetshire
Conference, seven were baptised.

Some of the oldest Branch Presidents
state that we have the best meetings of
strangers that have been for many years.
I believe the Spirit of the Lord is work-
ing with the people. If so, we may hope
for an increase to follow the seeding and
watering so faithfully performed by the
Elders in these lauds for some years
past.

I deem It but justice to state that the
prudent and wise course pursued by Pre*
sident Hanham and his associates has
enabled me to receive the District in a
very good financial condition. The
Saints, I believe, are free from debt, and
what little they own is in their own hands,
instead of being in their "uncle's"
care.

My greatest cause of regret is that my
poor health has withheld me from entering
so fully into the labours of the District as
I desired. I have sincerely to thank Pre-
sidents Hanham, Reed, and Mumford, the
Travelling Elders, and Saints generally, for
their consideration and kindness.

Believing as I do that God will bless
his work under the present Presidency of
this land, I can only congratulate yon,
brother George, on your position, and
strive to aid you by doing my best te
honour the work which flies so near year
heart.

Very respectfully,
Claudius V.

Digitized by

SUMMARY.

-207

> *

is io a state ot revolution' being supported bj the Montenegrins. The fighting has
become general. Several Turkish Tillages on the frontier hare been reduced to ashes.*
The imperial manifesto respecting the emancipation of the serfs has produced a most
satisfactory impression at Warsaw. A deputation from the delegation of citizens imme-
diately complimented the Polish noblemen and agricultural societies which recently and
spontaneously recommended the emancipation of the serfs. They also expressed a hope
-that reform concerning the Polish peasantry will soon be carried out. The Guild of
Merchants of Warsaw, taking into consideration the late events, and in order to give a
-proof of then* union, hare resolred to grant to the Jewish merchants an equal position
with themselves in their guild. The Times has. received the following telegram
from its own correspondent, dated Naples, March 19 : — " All the Councillors are dismissed.
The Council of the Lieutenancy is dissolved. Directors will be appointed in more direct
communication with Turin. There will be a Piedmontese Director of Finances. The
Civitella del Tronto refuses still to surrender." The Pope's last allocution is regarded as
precluding all hope of a compromise between the Holy See and the new kingdom of
Italy.

Amebicah. — Two distinct shocks of earthquake hare been felt in Newark. In
Bloomfield, bells were rung and bouses shaken. In Orange, doors were shaken to-and-
fro; while in Paterson, Belleville, and other places, there were similar phenomena. Two
shocks of an earthquake, only a few moments apart, hare also been felt at Bunker Hill,
Massachusetts. The capital city on the 4th of March was the scene of a life and
excitement unequalled in the history of the inaugurations that have taken place
within its precincts since the formation of the Government. The fears expressed of
-disorder, the anticipations aroused by a thousand flying rumours, the peculiar circum-
stances attending and resulting from the election, the condition of the country, and the
surrounding train of circumstances, all conspired to invest the occasion with no ordinary
interest. The military arrangements showed that apprehensions of a murderous plot
against the President elect still existed. His carriage was so closely surrounded on all sides
by marshals and cavalry as to hide it from view. A shot could not possibly have been aimed
at him, so dense was the military enclosure. It is reported from Washington that among
the first acts of the Lincoln administration will be the reinforcement of Fort 8umter, and
an attempt to collect the revenue at the Gulf ports; which, if verified, will inaugurate civil
war. InteUigen ce from the new Government at Montgomery shows that it is proceeding with
great vigour. Thirty thousand volunteers are now drilled and under canvass, awaiting
orders, and large army provision supplies of all sorts have been purchased. The Herald*
Washington correspondent, March 2nd, 1861, says — M The intelligence from Virginia is
cather discouraging for the friends of the Union in that State. It is positively asserted
that if Congress adjourns without passing some plan of adjustment, Virginia wilt join her
sister 8tates in the Southern Confederacy in less than thirty days. This information
comes from the submissionists in that State/' The Herald says — " The secretary of War
is ia daily receipt of despatches from Major Anderson, in which full details are given of
affairs in Charleston Harbour. He states, in his last letters, that the batteries, fortifica-
tions, and other means of attack and defence, which have been under construction, are
nearly completed. The impression is very general that they intend to make an attack on
Fort Sumter, unless prevented by the solemn interposition of the Provisional Government
• mt Montgomery." It appears that there is a large party in South Carolina who ignore the
Southern Confederacy, and will not recognize their authority. In ' the Virginian Stats
Convention, held March 2nd, the following resolution was offered : — " Whereas the
powers delegated by Virginia to the Federal Government have been perverted to her
injury ; and whereas her moderate and reasonable demand (the Crittenden proposition*
-with essential modifications, presented by the General Assembly as a final effort to restore
the integrity of the Union,) has been deliberately rejected by the Northern States of the
Confederacy; therefore resolved, That every consideration of duty, interest, honour,
and patriotism requires that an ordinance shall be adopted by this Convention, and sub-
mitted to the people, by which Virginia may resume all the powers she delegated to the
^federal Government, and declare her connection with the Government dissolved." In the
Texas election, the votes in Harrison county were 66 for secession, to 44 against. Cass,
Marion, Rusk, and Cherokee counties are reported as having voted almost unanimously
for secession. In North Carolina, Wayne county gives 1,008 majority for a Convention j

?%\ \ 206" .* * * PPBTRY.r-AMmiSttS. — d*atb»

t •*••**.* • * ! .

J *^'>SMumnU^elecW. %v It|»h # count? alejU a £*eition^t bj 910 majority, and glret 86
*' •',* iyajox!ty'*ftr a Conveftto£. Wake ooVntj 4 Uojonists elected; fhr Coo^entlon, 160
••.'.^majority. ^ W^rr^^nnt^elebts'^eVttiinieU, andja liigejj foi; a.Qqpf tbtion. . Pier#tto
•• ' c^^tj,4JnioDTst**elected ; Cpnventkra baa a .large majority. Northampton bounty, one
unionist and one Secessionist ; large, majprfy for a .OonTentiJnw rflife Department of
State has received despatches from Central America, with *atea v to>^e # 29th of January.
v The country generally was in a shocking condition. The -revolution continues, and with*
increasing bitterness. General Herran had been using his utmost efforts, but nneuoeee a
folly, to bring the revolutionists to terms of peace. - Tfce Governineftt forces, under
Ospina, have obtained several signal advantages oyer tb^e rebels* as l they call them. The
fears of revolution are still alarming the peoplf in Valparaiso.* ltoh Antonio Yaraa
has been chosen President, but had positively refused to acta* It was thought that, in
case of his assuming the reins of government, the revolution Will be* enkindled. From
Salvador we learn that the republic was making rapid progress under thetnleof the new
President, Barrios.

POETRY.

WHY SHOULD ZION FEAR?

While Zlou doe*, what's just and right

To foes 85 well as friends—
Though nations coine to try her might,

And Envy legions sends,
What matters it > Her sods are brave,

And home is rery dear ;
23 er God in hour at need will tare :

Then why should Zion fear?

Her soil smiles wealth to feast content;

Her laws are just are pure ;
And no man is to prison sent

Who's not an evildoer.
Fair rirtne grows upon the land,

Like a flower sweet and dear;
And wealth takes merit by the hand:

Then whv should Zion fear *

Some coward hearts may fly the foe,

But thousands true will stand :
*Tis known joy oft has sprung from woe,

Aud flourished on the land.
Her sons are strong, and leaders brave ;

Her foes shall disappear ;
For God, our God, o'errules to save :

Then why should Zion fear ?

London.

With lovely daughters fair and t

Sweet friends to man indeed ! —
With work to do for me and you.

And joys for all who need, —
While Freedom nobly treads the laud.

As pity dries each tear.
'Neath God's vouchsafed protecting hand,-

Why —why should Zion fear ?

Charles Heath.

AnDRKssKS,— W. O. Owen, rt, Hereford Place, Newport, Monmouthshire.

Charles W. Penrose, &6, Garbett Street, Cottage Lane, Birmingham.
Daniel Slathevun, care of William Abbott, Ir cheater, Northamptonshire.

Dikd— In Brighain City, Thursday, January 3» 1861, David Bees Evans, formerly of Pembrokeshire*

Wales, aged 42 years, 4 months, and 20 days.

Kuphemia Simpson, of Loghgelly Branch, Edinburgh Conference, will be glad if anyone can give her
any information of fhc whereabouts of her son, William Simpson, who emigrated to the States about sHx
years ago, and from there to the Valley about two years back. Address— Mrs. Euphemia Simpson,
Cowdenbeath, by Lochgelly, Scotland. [Valley papers, please eopy.]

CONTENTS.

Social and Meial Regeneration w....... 198 Prospects of War in the West ... SO*

Retrospect of the Latter-day Work - 196 Correspondence. -England: Letters from Elders

History of Joseph Smith 197 Kelsey and Spencer .. 2S5

Koitorial. — Responsibilities and Duties of Pa- Summary of News and Passing Events. 207

reats.-The Circulation of the .s7«r.— Abstract Poetry.— Why should Zion Fear? 2B&

of News from the Conferences 900 Addresses . M .. >M . 20S

The Patriarchal Institutions of Polygamy 204 Death „..............— ~ ... 2US

LIVERPOOL:

EDITKD AND PL'RLISRCn BY GEORGE Q. OANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOB SALE AT THK LATTF. R DAY SAIXTfe' BOOK DEP6T, 30, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STRUT, l*KlXOTCtf»

A NO ALL BOOKSELLERS.

FEINTED ay JAME6 AND HZFUBW, 51, bOtTH JOHN STREET, MTXBrOeL.

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY 8AINT8'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

M A note shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations:
\c tciU plead with all flesh; he uHl give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lorrf."— .
Js&emiah.

No. 14, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, April 6, 1861. Price One Penny.

CONTRAST BETWEEN THE SAINTS AND THE WORLD.

BY ELDER EUGENE HENRJOD.

To those who have had any experience , But, says one, Could not this pretended
aznongst the two classes of individuals oneness be accounted for from the fact that
abov* mentioned, and who have taken they bear the name of being an enthusiastic
pains. to search into the causes, and ob- peuple, who art' controlled by this feeling
lerre the effects producing the glorious ] to the extreme ? To this we would answer,
contrast which exists between the life of j that no one who has beerr intimately ac-
8aiut3 and ihat of sinLert;, it is really [ quaintcd or connected with the Saints as
wpn^rAiV "«> wall as a source of gratifi- ; a people, and has understood the causes
cation to their " feeling?, to know that ' and motives which prompt them to
thWe. iff £uch a class of people on the action, has ever found them to b^gDverned
earth ffc^bts present time . as thy Saints ; or controlled by tfyat feeling. On the con-
qm$, indeed, no oiic is in any way capaMo r trary, a knowledge and consciousness of
of cotngrehendihg the great amount of their duty towards their God and their
good or evil. existing amongst tbo.e two fellow-men has invariably been the main-
dakses, unless he has been closely con- spring of all their actions ; and it is because
nfCUfd or identified with the interests of of that knowledge, and of that honesty m
both. \ thur dealings one with auother, thae

'.One of the . principal features that t tb"y exhibit this featute in their con-
etrike£ the observer, in drawing this con- du;jt.

tglftt* ia tht\easY w .*w in which the S ii its ' After all that has been said' against this
"f* 6 gt^yerni^* m ineir niounc\i:i h u 4i e. i people, where in the wt»rhl is there a
|feich a onio£43 , o£ action in all their en- community uf beings that exhibit this one-
t»pcises af" operations exists there as we } ness of action, who are so cemented by
hja^e observed nowhere else; and if the the bon^Ts of love, and whose interests are
weQrJcDOWO axiom, that '* A hint to the f so identified together? Look at the very
woe insufficient," when practised by any j best governments now in existence, some
ciya Qi people, is a sure token of their ] of whom are old enough (had their sy^-
jStffs^ wtee people, then we may safely j terns and laws been sound and efficient,)
3r«^n> JSaints tms good name ; for never I to have taught their subjects all that
ijara^'aeeh* a people who require so! is necessary to make them a free and
tpibpvt ,qt exertion from their leading j happy people: what have they aecom-
fkq govern ^eip, a* the Saints in J plishW during the many centuries of their
j j - V r . \ reign? How much better are they noi^

Digitized by Google

2 10 CONTRAST BETWEEN THE

SAINTS AN6 THE WORLD.

than when they were first established?
True, some of them have improved their
conditions in a pecuniary point of view,
and gained considerable knowledge in the
different arts and sciences now known, at
the cost of enormous treasures and the
lives of millions' of men ; but how much
have they done towards benefitting or
improving the moral condition of man-
kind? Their master-spirits and philoso-
phers in all ages have exerted themselves
to their utmost in trying to redeem the
manses, and create such laWB as would
secure to them protection in the pursuit
of lite and happiness, and unite them in
the bonds of brotherhood. How far they
have succeeded is best seen by reading
the reports of their philanthropic so-
cieties, or the numerous accounts of
thvfts, rapines, murders, suicides, reli-
gious, political, and social corruption and
.roiienness, and all kinds of imaginable
•crimes, contained in their daily publications.
This is what has been accomplished, and
-that, {oo, by the nations or governments
-who are foremost in denouncing the doc-
trines, regulations, and institutions of the
Saints in Utah.

So much for this contrast !

Another feature, equally as interesting
In the contrast between the Saints and
other people, is the implicit confidence
they have in their leaders, and the readi-
ness, promptitude, and energy with which
they respond to any call made by them
for the interests of the community at large,
or of individuals, as the case may be.
The feeling so very prevalent amongst
other communities of disregarding tne
-counsel of proper authorities, or of using
every available means by taking advan-
tage of an unguarded point of law to
avoid fulfilling their requirements,— that
feeling has no place whatever in the
hearts of the Saints. They understand
-that unless they give their undivided at-
tention and support to those whom the
Lord has placed over them, they cannot
receive any blessing or benefit, either
temporal or spiritual, from their adminis-
tration unto them: hence tne great
.power and influence wielded by those
men over that community for their good
and welfare. But one fact should be borne
in mind by those who are unacquainted
with this peculiar people,— namely, that
this implicit confidence and faith vested in
those men has been gained and acquired
l>y the most undeviating integrity and

constant anxiety on their part to benefit
the Saints, ooupled with an independence
of mind and a disregard for consequences
in the discharge of their duties, which
have secured to them the esteem and affec-
tion of the people over whom they
preside. These have been and are the
feelings of that people who have been so
grossly abused and misrepresented, and
which, in the contrast with the feelings of
other communities towards their leaders,
reflect much credit upon the Saints.

But, to be short, we will only mention
another feature of this contrast between
the practice of good and evil. It is one
which causes the mind of whoever has
observed it to labour under a painful de-
pression when witnessing its effects and
bearings upon the masses, but more par-
ticularly upon the rising generation. We
allude to the reckless course pursued by
the young of both sexes in their wicked
and corrupt intercourse one with the
other. Surely, if there is a country under
the heavens which can boast of the purity
of life of its inhabitants, and rejoice
because of their love and practice of its
good and wholesome laws, we have no
hesitation, so far as our experience goes,
to proclaim " fair Utah" as being that
happy country, and the only place that in
our travels we have found exempt from
such wicked and corrupt practices. Happy
and thankful indeed may her inhabitants
be, that the happiness they breathe is not
contaminated by such influences, and that
both old and young can, at any time and
under any circumstances, safely travel
through her cities and settlements, without
being subject to the insults and dangers
of modern and eastern civilization (?).

To this the writer can, and is willing to
bear a faithful testimony, having had ample
opportunities of becoming personally ac-
quainted with thousands of the Saints, and
also with their doctrines. This subject has
been suggested to his mind by contrasting
the morals of these older countries with
those of Utah, his late residence; and
should these few lines come under the
notice of some honest inquirer after truth,
and cause him to inquire into the causes
that have brought about such a state of
things amongst the Saints, he will doubt-
less come to this conclusion, as the writer
has done long ago, that a stream which
sends out good pure water must proceed
from a pure fountain, or that a tree which
brings forth good fruits must be a good

Digitized by Google

Me, and consequently that a peep* who imam* in insaputade, until every fcott*
practise such good and whaktotae prin- being upon tht earth abaH have receive*
crpfes must be a good people. the truth, and be gathered wkh tie*

May this contrast eoaiinueto exist and 1 Saints, is the smoeee wish of the wcstec.

A SAILING SBBMOH— NOT SPIEITUALIZBD,

3T SLDSJl W. «. If ILLS.

As the s ea so n is approaching when
many of the Saints will emigrate to
Sen, I feel it will not be oat of place
te write them a practical travelling ser-
mon. I conceive that it may be useful not
only to those emigrating this season,
> to all who purpose doing so

Gs»{weat characteristic of the Gospel,
aa swioJed in these days, is the gathering
tcgsshor of the recipients of the same in
one place, where they can learn the ways
at* the Lord more perfectly, and be placed
jpeneh a position and in such oiroum-
sfnncesas they may be governed accord-
mgto the laws and ordinances of heaven,
and be taught the principles of truth as
dewrinpiiaj themselves in the progress of
aha Church. The Saints in these lands
lank forward to their departure to Zion
with feelings of great pleasure. The
spirit of the work imbues them with its
n woo saity as a duty and a privilege, and
they naturally feel desirous to gratify the
nrosnptings of the same. They leave the
nomas of their fathers, the scenes of their
ettdhood's days, the society of their
friends — all that endears them to their
native land, without a regret or murmur.
Net that their hearts are not as full of
the finer feelings of humanity as others :
am ; but they feel nobler aspirations raising
their souls to duty, and greater prjn-
\ urging them to the execution of the

Bat, beloved Saints, before you can
s r o a a h your place of destination, you have
sv long journey to perform, and have
many and varied circumstances to pass
eJttougb that may be of a trying nature,
eV which you should, at least, endeavour
M prepare yourselves. The landscape in
ay be beautifal to our admiring
i it undoubtedly is; the rich
i at* the trees, the lively verdure of
tnenekfc, and the perfect features of the
may be enchanting; but before
ng over the verd?ot lawn, and

plucking the leaves that form the attrao*
tion, we have to pass through muddj
pathways, and to tread among broken,
and deformed trees, and poisonous de-
caying matter; our shoes may be be*
spattered with dirt, and our clothes
rumpled, and perchance torn, before wo
can enjoy the full delights of the scene,
and sit down to rest, inhaling the fra-
grance around, and quaffing theexuW T
ant scents mixed up with medicinal
niceness by our great protector— mother
Nature. So it is with you in your pre*
sent position. The hopes of Zion animate
your bosoms ; the halo shed around her
sacred places by the presence and counsels
of the Prophet and Priesthood delight
your senses ; yet you must remember that
you have nearly seven thousand miles to
travel, and you will have to encounter
some things of which you have never
thought, but which are merely the conv
mon incidents to travelling. Your train-
ings in life have been nearly all different,
your education and prejudices varied,
and your feelings and tempers very dis-
similar. You have been reared in
separate homes, with many of the com-
forts of life at your command ; at least,
you have acted independently each family
of the other ; but now you will soon be
associated with strangers who have their
likes, dislikes, and customs perhaps op-
posed to yours. From four to six hun-
dred persons will occupy the same shijp,
cook at the same nre, walk on the
same floors, and will more or less jostle
against each other in your narrow home
on the world of waters. You have not
been, perhaps, ten miles from the smoke
of the "old house at home," and soon
nearly every face you see wuT be strange 1p
you. It is true, and pleasingly true, that
all your new associates " have been bap-
tized by the one spirit into the one body"
—that your hope sand ioys and faith are
the same ; but they, with yourselves, have
too many of humanity's failings, and are

Digitized by

Google

^12

A SAILING SRRMON— NOT SPIRITUALIZED,

Inexperienced in travelling. Consider
that some inconveniences may arise by
coming in contact with each other in a
-very limited place ; your room and means
cf accommodation will be necessarily
small, and some things will be calculated
to annoy. Let me advise you, then,
to try and keep a good temper all the
time; bear and forbear with each other;
cultivate the better feelings of your
hearts ; be not rash or inconsiderate ; be
not selfish or regardless of others' rights ;
and keep a prayerful spirit, with the end
of your calling in view. Yon must know
that that end cannot be attained but
through such a journey. If you seek to
he obliging, to do good, and to have the
spirit of charity in your hearts, you can
make a good, long pleasant trip.

Let the husbands pay attention to their
•wives and children. Assist your wives
in their work, to make it light. Make
them as comfortable as you can, and show
that you are interested in their welfare.
If the wives are peevish or fretful, soften
down their feelings, and talk kindly and
comfortingly to them, because in doing
so you will increase your own comfort.
Let not the wives exact too much of their
husbands, but be considerate and thought-
ful. Live and act for yourselves as
becoming Saints of God. Make the men
feel that you have some regard for them.
^Men generally make poor cooks (those
not used to cooking I mean), and are
awkward at fixing places, boxes, and
children comfortably. Do not find a
fault for every little mistake when it was
done for the best. Keep your berths and
every place around you clean and neat.
Let the young unmarried females, after
they have done their own personal duty,
look and see how they can assist the
people with large families; and be not
afraid to help others as you would like to
"he helped, had you families, and other
girls were unmarried. Always do good,
and watch for favourable opportunities to
accomplish it. Never feel yourselves
annoyed by some appearances of irre-
gularity in families, but heartily assist in
sickness and discomforture. I have
known young ladies who were like angels
of mercy on shipboard among the pas-
-sengers, and they have earned laurels by
their industry and kindness. Depend
upon itj those who are eligible to make
Igood wives will quickly be descried on
^he passage; and J put it down as one

good rule for good young men to know r
that those young ladies who are kind and-
obedient to their parents, and affable and.
obliging to those around them who need
their help, and give it willingly without
boasting, will make good wives. Youngf
men are a useful class on board ; and if
they seek to do good, many oppor-
tunities will often present themselves.
Let all see and have their boxes and
other moveables fastened well. This will
save much annoyance; for if they are
carelessly laid aside, it may be that when?
the ship gives a lurch in resisting the*
strokes of the boisterous sea, your good*
will be thrown about, and yourselves right
among them. O dear, what feelings-
may arise then! All your good things
thrown "helter-skelter" around — your
provisions wasted — your drops of cordial
spilled — your cake mixed with unmen-
tionable stuff tossed away by sickness*
Oh, what a cry will be there ! " The fat's
in the fire." "I wish I was ashore, and
out of this !" These little inconveniences^
however, may be obviated by taking duo
care at first, and keeping everything in*
order afterwards.

Tou will not be long on board until you>
become sea- sick. It is a very trying sickness
— the most suddenly prostrating sickness
I know anything about. The whole sys»
tern is tried, and the energies overpowered-
Some would not care, when suffering from
it, were they even thrown overboard.
Fine clothes are disregarded and cleanli-
ness forgotten while it lasts- Oh, it will
make you " feel bad," no doubt. Tour
spirits will sink within you; and if not care-
ful, you may forget yourselves and say harsh
things. Now, let me advise yon not
to blame " Mormonism" for all this, and
exclaim, u Oh, if it were not for a Mor-
monism," I would not be here!" *If it
were not for my religion, I would not
suffer this!" * Brother So-and-so os
President So-and-so does not care for as:
he never comes near us to see if we arc
dead or alive !" and such expressions, may
fall with a bitterness that you would fa*
ashamed of. It may be that brother So-
and-so or the President is just as sick as
you; or they are trying to keep it ofi%
and therefore for awhile they keep away
from sickening sights. I know that, with
many, every time the ship lurches, or
a mouthful is parted with, " Moraosusm"
is blamed; the religion is the cafese*.
Perhaps when you have some nice tidV hit

Digitized by

A SAILING SERMON — NOT SPIRITUALIZED.

cooked that smells deliciously, and yon
promise your palate a gratification for
■once, the ship nearly throws you out of
your berth, and down goes the dainty
meal. It is certainly enough to make one
joty to see it : the look of disappointment on
the sick and hungry countenance is a
.-good subject for an artist ! Bat how can it
be helped ? The best way is to bear it
•nobly, laugh at the misfortune, and be
-artist yourself to keep the scene in your
memory. These are but the common
-circumstances that occur with all who
trespass on Neptune's watery domain.
You will feel better when it is all over ;
jour system will be renovated and
cleansed, and you will very soon forget
4he prostration under which you laboured ;
bat if you have said hard things against
anyone and expressed better feelings, you
'will feel ashamed. They will come up
like ghosts before you for a long time
afterwards, and will be as a cloud over
your vision. Avoid such things, then, in
-time. Be prepared for the worst, and
endeavour to be happy all the time.

I would exhort all to be obedient to
counsel. Some things may appear hard
to you, on account of your inexperience
in travelling and the ways of the world :
•till do your duty as required. Shirk
not from work, or guarding, or doing
•anything you may rationally be called
upon to perform. You will find a plea-
sure in conforming to discipline and duty.
Do not encourage a spirit of grumbling
and fault-finding during your travels.
Your President will do his best, no doubt,
so far as he has knowledge ; and though
be may not please you, perhaps he pleases
hundreds, and you could not do near so
well, were you in his position. Do not
^expect too much of your President. Do
-not expect him to stay the winds and
allay the storms, and to keep sickness
'from the ship; nor look for too much
attention from him for your personal
pood. Remember that there are others
in the world as well as you, and that
jour President is bat a man, and cannot
-do all things. He has an unpleasant
-office to fill m many respects; and I know
that many expect impossibilities from his
ihands. He has to seek the general good,
and not to please selfish feelings.

Let the young men, and young women
-especially, be very cautious in entering into
'conversation with strangers who are not
of us; and upon no account enter into

any contract, or do any business with
sailors, or others, without first consulting;
with the President or other officers^
I know that many will think this hard
counsel ; but I know that young women
have been ruined by placing too much
confidence in themselves, and taking that
course which seemed best adapted for thebr-
independent spirit. The artful and de-
signing will insinuate themselves into the
good graces of the thoughtless girl, and
ere she knows it she is drawn aside, and her
after-life is one scene of sorrow, regret*
and misery. Too frequently, too, if the
Elders interfere when she is in danger*
and warn her, or want to exercise au-
thority over her, she considers it an act
of tyranny that she will not brook, and
flies to the side of the seducing stranger.
I have known it so often that I write
boldly and feelingly to give my humble re*
monstrance to such conduct. I remember
lately visiting a good old couple, ac-
quaintances in my former ministry in
these lands. I enquired about the several
members of the family. With tears in
their eyes they informed me that two of
their daughters, who were very interest-
ing girls, were on their way to Zion ; but
they listened to the evil, reports of some
who met them on the way, and would not
take the counsels of the Elders: they
thought they knew better how to conduct
themselves than they could be directed,
and they stopped on the way. The eldest
married the man who instilled hatred
against the journey in her young un-
suspecting mind ; and after a short time
he treated her cruelly, which caused her
death. On her death-bed, while but the
wreck of her former self, she deplored her
folly, testified to the truth of the work*
and the purity of the conduct of the
Elders towards her while on her journey,
which she never completed. The hearts
of the parents were overcome while re*
counting to me these facts, and impressing
their sorrow at the lack of wisdom dis-
played by the young too often in the
Gospel. This is but one instance out of
many that I could recite.

Obey counsel and you will be happy*
and your journey will not appear so
tedious.

I have not spaee to say anything about
travelling over the land to Utah ; but my
reader may gather some valuable hints, I
hope, from the sea journey, which can be
applied to the land as well.

Digitized by Google

314

HlfTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH,

(Continued from page 200.)

, [April, 1844.]

Some lay I want plenty to eat, plenty to
Drink, plenty to wear, and a good house to
Ore in ; and, aay they, then I will believe.
But God will not giro it until yon hare
proved yourselves unto Urn.

No wonder, then, that we thonld be
joyful to-day. If the people will do as
they are told, I will tell yon what to do.
Get the yisions of heaven, and seek not
what yon shall eat or what yon shall drink,
but seek the will of God. Get into the
presence of God, and then yon will hare
j ohnny-cake and milk-and-water no more,
would yon not be astonished, if even now
^we ehonld tell the glories and the privileges
*f the Saints of God to yon and to the
world? We should be ridiculed, and no
wonder we shut it np in secret. If we
were to tell you when Jehovah looked on,
10, it is beauty, it is heaven, it is felicity to
look on. I should marvel if it were other-
wise. If a man tells you one glory or one
message, he is learning another at the same
time. Do not be astonished, then, if we
even yet have secret meetings, asking God
for things for your benefit.

Do not be afraid. Go back to the com-
mencement of this Church, and see what
was concocted then. There was no evil
concocted when we first held secret meet-
ings, and it is the same now. Has God
forgotten to be gracious, to be mercifnl to
mankind? Did he ever concoct anything
that was devilish for mankind? He could
not do it. I never am afraid of God or
man concocting anything to hurt me. I
lave faith to detect man, even if he did.
I would ask God to detect them, and would
bold them fast before he should do it. I
-am not afraid of men or devils. I have
none of those fears, jealousies, dreads, fore-
bodings, surmisbgs, &o. I put my trust in
God, and whatever God does for me is only
for my salvation.

A man is a bad teamster who runs his
team in the worst road. [And showed how
much like the Gospel.] What I have
already said is only to prepare the way.
[Here five of the Pottowattomie tribe
appeared with their interpreter, and were
assisted to the stand by the President.] I
am going to tell of something that sur-
prised me at the beginning of the Church.
I have handled, heard, seen, and known
things which 1 have not yet told.

Alter the Church began to grow, it was

favoured with monstrously-wise men. They -
had so much wisdom that they could die- -
pute what God said, and what his servant
said. They were opposed to virtue. They
would say they had revelations and vissensv
and were as certain that God had given it
as I was that the Devil had.

He referred to the children of Israel who
were snivelling and murmuring about
their leeks and onions, &c, &o. ; and so it is
in these last days: some men are alwaya
jelling about what the Church believes, and
opposing every good thing.

I want devils to gratify themselves ; and
if bowling, yelling, yelping will do yew.
any good, do it till you are all damned.

If calling us devils, &&, will do yon aay
good, let us have the whole of it, and you can
then go on yonr way to hell without a grunt.

We hear these things ever since the
Church existed. They have come up with
us ; they have had so much more wisdom,
they knew all about the kingdom before
God revealed it, and they know all thlnga
before they are heard; they understand
more than God knows. We gather Of all
kinds. If we get all nations, we get all
wisdom, all canning, and everything else.

The sectarians cannot be as wise at we
are, for they have only got the plana of
man for salvation ; but we have got man'a
plans, the Devil's plans, and, the beet of all*
we have God's plan.

I do not know whether there are any of
these wise men here this morning ; I have
merely given this as a part of the history
of this Church. I am disposed to give some
reasons why saltation only belongs to the
kingdom of God, and to that alone.

I will endeavour to show why salvation
belongs to us more peculiarly, in contra-
distinction to all other bodies. Will this be
clear enough ?

I discover one thing : Mankind have
laboured under one universal mistake about
this — viz., salvation was distinct from
government ; t. e., that I can build a Church
without government, and that thing have
power to save me.

When God sets up a system of salvation*
he sets up a system of government. When,
I speak of a government, 1 mean what I
say. I mean a government that shall title
over temporal and spiritual affaire.

Every man is a government of himself*
and infringes upon no government. A man
is not an honourable man, if he is not above
all law and above government.

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMIfH.

215

I im, in oar town, we hare need of govern-
ment. Some study law only for the pur-
pose of. aeaing how many feuds, how many
fcroils they can kick up, how much they can
disturb the peace of the public without
breaking the law, and then say — • I know
my rights, and will have them ;' • I did Dot
know it was the Marshal, or I would not
hare done it.'

He is no gentleman. Gentlemen would
not insult a poor man in the street, but
would bow to him, as much as those who
appear more respectable. No Marshal, or
any one else, should pull me up. We
ought to live a great way within the circle
of the laws of the land. I would lire far
above all law.

The law of God is far more righteous
than the laws of the lmd. The laws of God
are far above the laws of the land. The
kingdom of God does not interfere with
the laws of the land, but keeps itself by
its own laws." [Reported by Elder Thomas
Bullock.]

[Elder Rigdon stopped to refresh him-
self.] The choir sang hymn 104.

Elder John Taylor being called npon to
address the congregation, said — "It gives
me pleasure to meet and associate with so
large an assemblage of the Saints. I always
feel at home among the brethren. I con-
aider them the honourable of the earth;
and if I can do anything to conduce to their
happiness, or that will in anywise tend to
their edification, I am satisfied.

I therefore address this congregation
with cheerfulness and pleasure ; and if by
unfolding any of the principles of truth
that I am in possession of, or laying before
you anything pertaining to the kingdom, — if
my ideas will enlarge your minds, or pro-
duce beneficial results to any, I shall con-
aider myself on this, as on all other occa-
sions, amply repaid.

Many things have been spoken by Elder
Bigdon concerning the early history of this
Church. There is no individual who has
aearohed the oraeles of eternal truth, but
his mind will be touched with the remarks
made by our venerable friend, which unfold
the dispensation of Jehovah, and have a
tendency to produce the most thrilling
feelings in the bosoms of many who are this
day present, and to promote our general
edification. He traces with pleasure on
the historio page — the rise of nations, king-
doms, and empires. .Historians dwell with
great minuteness on the heroic deeds, the
chivalrous acts, the dangers and deliver-
ances, the tact, bravery, and heroism of
their chieftains, generals, and governments.

We, as Republicans, look back to the
time when this nation was under the iron
ifUle Great Britain* and groaned under

the power, tyranny, and oppression of that
powerful nation. We trace with delight
the name of a Washington, a Jefferson, a
La Fayette, and an Adams, in whose bosoms
burned the spark of liberty. These themes
are dwelt upon with delight by our Legis-
lators, our Governors, and Presidents : they
are subjects which fire our souls with
patriotic ardour.

But if these things animate them so
much, how muoh more great, noble, and
exalted are the things laid before us I Jffoyv
were engaged in founding kingdoms and <
empires that were destined to dissolution
and decay; and although many of tt>tm
were great, formidable, and powerful, they
now exist only in name. Their 'cloud-
capped towers, their solemn temples, are
dissolved,' and nothing now remains of
their former magnificence or ancient gran-
deur but a few dilapidated buildings and
broken columns. A few shattered fragments
remain to tell to this and to other genera-
tions the perishable nature of earthly pomp
and worldly glory.

They were engaged in founding empires
and establishing kingdoms and powevs tjiat
had in themsejlves the seeds of destruction,
and were destined to decay. We are laying ,
the foundation of a kingdom that shall last
for ever — that shall bloom in time and ;
blossom in eternity. We are engaged in- a ,
greater work than ever occupied the atten-
tion of mortals. We live in a day that
prophets and kings desired to see, but died
without the sight.

When we hear the history of the rise of
this kingdom from one who has been with iir
from its infancy — from the lips of our
venerable friend who has taken an active
part in all the history of the Church, can
we be surprised if he should feel animated,
and that his soul should burn with heavenly
zeal? We see in him a man of God who-
can contemplate the glories of heaven, the
visions of eternity, and who yet looks for-
ward to the opening glories which the grea r .
Elohim has manifested to him pertaining to
righteousness and peaoe — a man who now
beholds the things roll on which he has
long since beheld in prophetic vision.

Most men have established themselves in
authority by laying desolate other king-
doms and the destruction of other powers.
Their kingdoms have been founded in blood,
and supported by tyranny and oppression.
The greatest chieftains of the earth have
obtained their glory — if glory it can be
called — by blood, carnage, and ruin. One
nation has been built up at the expense and
ruin of another, and one man has been
made at the expense of another; and yet
these great men were called honourable for
their inglorious deeds of rapine, Tbej

Digitized by

216

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

have slain their thousands, and caused the
orphans to weep, and the widows to mourn.

Men did these things because thej could
do it — because they had power to desolate
nations, and spread terror and desolation.
They have made themselres immortal as
great men. The patriots of this country
had indeed a laudable object in view — a
plausible excuse for the course they took.
They stood up in defence of their rights,
liberty, and freedom. But where are now
those principles of freedom? "Where are
the laws that protect all men in their
religious opinions? Where the laws that
say, ' A man shall worship God according
to the dictates of his own conscience ?' What
say ye, ye Saints — ye who are exiles in the
land of" liberty? How came you here?
Can you in this land of equal rights return
in safety to your possessions in Missouri ?
No. You are exiles from thence, and there
is no power, no voice, no arm to redress
your grievances. Is this the gracious boon
for which your fathers, fought and strug-
gled and died? Shades of the venerable
dead ! could yon but gaze upon this scene,
and witness tens of thousands of Americans
in exile on Columbia's soil, — if pity could
touch your bosoms, how would you mourn
for the oppressed ! If indignation, how
would you curse the heartless wretches that
have so desecrated and polluted the temple
of liberty? 'Haw has the gold become
•dim ! apd the fine gold, how has it changed !'
Let it not be told among the heathen
monarchs of Europe, lest they laugh and
say, 'Hal hat so would we have it.'

Ye Saints, never let it go abroad that ye
are exiles in the land of liberty, lest ye
disgrace your republic in the eyes of the
nations of the earth; but tell it to those
who robbed and plundered, and refused to
give you your rights. Tell your rulers that
all their deeds of fame are tarnished, and
their glory is departed.

Are we now, indeed, in a land of liberty,
of freedom, of equal rights? Would to
God 1 could answer, Yes ! But no! no!! I
cannot. They have robbed us, we are
stripped of our possessions, many of our
friends are slain, and our Government says,
* Your cause is just, but we can do nothing
for you.'

Hear it, ye great men, we are here in
exile! Here are thousands of men in
bondage in a land of liberty — of freedom ! !
If ye have any patriotism left, shake off
your fetters, and come and proclaim us
free, and give us our rights. I speak of
this Government as being one of the best of
governments — as one of the greatest and
purest ; and yet, what a melancholy picture !

O ye venerable fathers who fought for |
your liberty, blush for your children, and I

mourn, mourn over your country's shame f
We are now talking about a Government
which sets herself up as a pattern for the
nations of the earth, and yet, O what a
picture! If this is the best, the most
patriotic, the most free, what is the situa-
tion of the rest ?

Here we speak with national pride of a
Washington, a La Fayette, a Monroe, and a
Jefferson, who fought for their liberties,
and achieved one of the greatest victories
ever won ; and scaroely has one generation
passed away before fifteen thousand citizens
petition Government for redress of their
wrongs, and they turn a deaf ear to their
cry.

Let us compare this with the Church of
Christ. Fourteen years ago, a few men
assembled in a log cabin; they saw the
visions of heaven and gazed upon the
eternal world; they looked through the
rent vista of futurity, and beheld the glo-
ries of eternity; they were planting those
principles which were concocted in the
bosom of Jehovah ; they were laying a
foundation for the salvation of the world ;
and those principles which they then planted
have not yet begun to dwindle ; but the fire
still burns in their bones ; the principles are
planted in different nations, and are wafted
on every breeze.

When I gaze upon this company of men,
I see those who are actuated by patriotic
and noble principles, who will stand up in
defence of the oppressed, of whatever
country, nation, colour, or clime. 1 see it
in their countenances. It is planted bj the
Spirit of God. They have received it from
the great Elobim, and all the power or
influence of mobs, priestcraft, or corrupt
men cannot quench it. It will burn. It
is comprehensive as the designs of God, and
as expansive as the universe, and reaches to
all the world. No matter whether it was an
Indian, a negro, or any other man or set of
men that are oppressed, you would stand
forth in their defence.

I say unto you, Continue to cherish those
principles. Let them expand. And if the
tree of liberty has been blasted in this
nation — if it has been gnawed by worms,
and alreadf blight has overspread it, Ve
will stand up in defence of our liberties,
and proclaim ourselves free in time and in
eternity.

The choir, by request, sang — 'O stop
and tell me, red man.' After prayer, by
Elder J. P. Greene, the meeting was ad-
journed for one hour.

April 6, 1844, afternoon.

The President arrived at the stand at
I half-past two o'clock, p.m. The choir
1 sang a hymn ; after which, prayer by Elder

Digitized by

X P. Grtene, when the choir sang another
A jinn.

Elder Rigdon returned his history of the
Church.

A little before five o'clock the assembly
were dismissed without ceremony until

EDITORIAL. 217

next morning, on the appearance of a
shower. The people bad scarcely time to
retire before a heavy shower of rain, wind,
thunder, and lightning followed. A splen-
did double rainbow seen in the heavens,**

{To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB,

SATURDAY, APRIL 6, 1861.

The Gospel System— The Confidence it Bestows.— Every year that passes
increases the evidence in favour of the superiority of the Gospel of Jesus, or, as men
now call it, " Mormonism," over every other system known among men. Commencing
its mission with a seemingly small, unimportant, and obscure beginning, derided and
despised by the members of and believers in the popular systems of the day, it has
grown in importance and magnitude, until to-day it is the chief and only hope^af
thousands in both hemispheres. In the early days of its enjoyment by man in this
generation, it required, faith on the part of its believers to give Ibem the assurance
that temporal as well as spiritual salvation was to be obtained by adhering to it.
Where strong faith did not then exist, it was difficult to imagine that a time would
come when the Gospel system — at that time so deficient in believers and influence —
would extend the most ample deliverance and protection to all who wtfuld trust in it ;
and the long- established and popular systems of the day be convulsed and riven to
their very centre, and afford no security or hope to those who had allied themselves
with them. While the temporal salvation held out by the Gospel in its fulness was
yet in the distant future, and only discernible by faith, there were on every hand
systems which had stood the test of years — systems which had been the reliance of
many generations of ancestors— systems which were incorporated to a great extent
with the governments of the earth. These systems were still, to all human appear-
ance, likely to endure fog as long a period, or even longer than they had endured,
and to continue to afford as much protection and safety to those who would then
trust in them as they had to those who in times past had relied upon them.

Though the revelations which accompanied the Gospel system denounced in plain
language the corruptions of the man-made systems that were among the nations,
and foretold their decay and downfall, yet it was apparently so weak itself, and
exhibited so few evidences of durability and power to those who only saw with the
natural eyes, that the idea set forth that it was destined to supplant them, and become
an ark of refuge when they would all fail, excited ridicule on all sides. But it has
been in the midst of troubles and circumstances of trial and difficulty that it has
proved itself to be all that it was hoped to be by its believers. Those who have clung
to it have experienced such deliverances, and so oft repeated, that their faith in its
perpetuity and power, and ability to outride in safety every storm, has developed into
knowledge. Where they formerly had only faith to believe that spiritual salvation
-was to be obtained by obeying it, they now have knowledge that not only spiritual,
bat also temporal salvation is to be obtained through it. It has emerged from every
struggle so triumphantly, and has proved its principles to be so 'well adapted to insure

Digitized by

218

EDITORIAL.

deliverance, that the confidence of its believers is unshaken. Even many of these
who do not recognize the hand of divinity in its principles and organization are
willing of late to acknowledge that it bids fair to be a permanent power — a power
whose influence will be greatly felt in the midst of the earth. As time rolls on, and
the rapidly developing events bring the Gospel system, or u Monnonism," as it is
termed, more and more prominently before the eyes of the world, such acknowledg-
ments will be more frequent.

A feeling of insecurity is taking possession of the minds of the people composing
the nations who uphold the so-called orthodox systems of the day. They scarcely
know what move to make, and, like a person in the dark, strive by groping to make
up for their deficiency of light. They betray a hesitation and fear which is in
striking contrast with the confidence and sense of security evinced by the Latter-day
Saints. This becomes more apparent every year. Through the light revealed by
the Gospel, the Saints are enabled to penetrate the future, and behold with unclouded
vision their pathway clearly defined. They can pursue it unhesitatingly without a
fear as to whither it may lead them. This confidence of theirs is being illustrated hi
a manner worthy of note at the present time.

As is well known, there are political troubles of a very serious nature now agitating
the United States. That nation is threatened with civil war. It may be averted for
a time; but the most hopeful scarcely dare indulge in the feeling that there is no
danger. Business of all kinds between this country and that is suffering under the
effects of distrust respecting the maintenance of peace in the midst of that people*
Especially has the emigration thither of people who are not members of our Church
from this kingdom been affected by it. Had there been no disturbances in the
United States to have checked the tide of emigration which has been setting in that
direction for years past, it would have been exceedingly great the present season.
The short crops in this country and the heavy crops and general prosperity of the
past year in the United States would have materially swelled the numbers of the
emigrants. But instead of there being a rush to that country to escape the desti-
tution and suffering of this, the people, not knowing what will happen there, prefer
enduring the evils which they have to contend with here, and which they know, to>
venturing in the midst of those which are likely to befai them there, and which t^ey
do not know; and, therefore, but few are emigrating.

With the Saints the opposite of this is the case. The troubles which deter others
from emigrating are incentives to them to emigrate. The emigration of our people
this season from these lands will, it is probable, be much heavier than it would have been
had there been no disturbances in the United States. This movement on their part
clearly exhibits tbe^confidence they have in the system with which they have become
identified. The States that surround the spot where that system is organized and
located may be distracted ; there may be upheavals and convulsions that may threaten
to reduce governments and long-standing systems to chaos, and those who dwell under
such governments or believe such systems may shrink back in dread and dismay from
the prospects before them; but the confidence of the Saints in the capability of the
system they have embraced to endure every shock is so great that they have an intense
desire to become more intimately connected with it, and to enjoy the temporal blessings
and salvation which it guarantees. As we have said, every year that passes will make
its superiority over every other system more evident ; and as troubles thicken, instead
of the Saints deserting it, or manifesting doubt respecting its ability to give them the
needed protection, they will cling closer to it, and make greater efforts to fly to its
fWter, The weary dove never sought the ark, on its return from its mission, u}

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

•well of land, with more eagerness and satisfaction than will the clouds of people
jet flock for refuge to the overshadowing aegis of that system which the Almighty
hisoseif has condescended to again restore, in the plenitude of its ancient power, to the
earth.

The Saints cannot appreciate too highly the blessings they enjoy. No other
people possess the knowledge they have had communicated unto them. They should
five worthy of it, and witness unto their Father, by every word and action, that his
kindness is not thrown away upon them. So will they be blessed and upheld of
him, and, with their posterity after them, become a highly favoured and mighty
people. The day is at hand when the inhabitants of the earth will realize that they
and their fathers have hewn out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water*
They lean on systems which are powerless to protect or save. They seek not the
Lord, to establish his righteousness ; but every man walketh in his own way, and
after the image of his own god. The image of that God is in the likeness of the
world, and its substance is that of an idol, which shall wax old and perish in
Babylon. The glorious gift of knowledge respecting the future conveys certainty
and bright hope to the bosoms of its possessors, and they tread their way fearlessly,
continually prospering. This gift the inhabitants of the earth despise, declaring it
useless and unnecessary. Their rejection of it has deprived them of all means of
averting or escaping impending judgments. As trouble increases, their confidence
in their systems will decrease, until they be overtaken by destruction. Not so
with the Saints : their confidence in the system they have espoused will become
perfected, and they will have the precious privilege of seeing its influence extend until,
fike a great tree, it will overshadow the whole land, and give room for all the tribes
of men, who will acknowledge its rule, to repose under its branches.

News from the United States. — By letters from friends in New York we
receive flattering accounts of the progress and prospects of the work in that region.
Elders Orson Pratt and Esastus Snow are labouring efficiently and successfully in
the ministry there, and many of those who once had a standing in the Church, but
had fallen away, have been awakened to a sense of their position by the preaching of
the Elders and the events now transpiring, which so strictly verify the truth of
prophecy and the near approach of those calamities they had been taught to expect
when they first received the Gospel, and are coming back, repenting of their sins
and being baptized for their remission. New members are also being added. Every
exertion is being made by the Saints in that land to get away to Zion this season ;
and It is altogether likely that the emigration to the* Valley from the Eastern and
"Western States will be very large. We are rejoiced to hear this news. If the
people would but listen to the voice of God's servants whom he has again sent
asneog them— 4f they would be warned by the prophecies of his Apostles, they
might yet escape the judgments and indignation which are to be poured out upon
the nation, unless it repents. The Saints are wise in making exertions to emigrate.
The wise king says—" A prudent man foreseeth the evil and hideth himself ; but
the simple pass on and are punished."

Tim power of reproduction in insects is one of the most wonderful parts of their
economy. On beheading a slug, a new head with all its complex appurtenances, will grow
again ; so with the feet of the salamander and the claws of lobsters. The end of a worm
split produces two perfect heads ; and if cut into three pieces, the middle reproduces a
perfect head and tall. Reproduction is also evidenced in the growth of trees from slips
smd cuttings, and of polypes and worms from small fragments.

220

IMPORTANT APPEAL.

IMPORTANT APPEAL TO TEE EMPEROR OF THE FRENCH.

The following Address to Louis Napoleon, Emperor of the French, was written by
Elder Louis A. Bertrand, and sent to the Emperor through his Chief Secretary, Mr.
Mocquard. Elder Bertrand had not received any answer when he last wrote, though,
he was expecting one every day.

We sincerely trust that the Emperor will give the petition a favourable reception
and grant the prayer of the petitioner. Elder Bertrand truly remarks that " his
Majesty could do nothing more beneficial to strengthen his throne and dynasty than
to give him [and all the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
that are in France at the present time, or may be hereafter,] the privilege of giving
his testimony in Paris on that work, and preaching the Gospel in the kingdom of
France."

[literal translation.]

£' To his Majesty Napoleon III., Emperor of
the French.

gire, — Haying been sent by the Presidency
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints, who reside now on the shores of
the Great Salt Lake, to take the direotion of
of the French Mission, I had the honour
last year to apply to two of your State
Ministers to ask them the privilege of
preaching the Gospel in France. Both
made a negative answer.

This day I take the respectful liberty of
Applying directly to your Majesty to suppli-
cate you to grant me a particular interview.
Having spent four years in Great Salt Lake
-City, I should be happy to be able to
answer any inquiries you might make
on that work vulgarly called M Mormonism,"
-which nobody but Saints can understand.

Sire, — Let me affirm to your Majesty that
you could do nothing more beneficial to
strengthen your throne and dynasty than to
grant me the privilege of giving my testi-
mony in Paris on that work, and of preaching
the Gospel of the kingdom in France.

I take the present opportunity to declare
to you that that work is of God, and by no
means a human one. Joseph Smith was
really and in very deed a Prophet — the
greatest Prophet of the Lord on the earth.
By the side of his mission, that of Moses
was a secondary one. For having rejected
the Divine mission of Joseph, for having
killed him, and so inhumanly persecuted the
Saints, the United States (now disunited)
are to suffer the most terrible and the
most unexpected trials. The present situa-
tion of the American people is perfectly
similar to the order of things which existed
among the inhabitants of Jerusalem when
Titus and his legions went there to execute
-the awful sentence pronounced by the
mouth of Messiah against that deicldal

people. The sword of the American Titus
is named " the slavery question."

The revolution which is raging on that
side of the Atlantio will have immediate)
and exceeding awful consequences for all
European nations. Twenty-eight years ago,
the Prophet Joseph predicted the crisis
which is now threatening the whole world.
I ask leave to lay before your Majesty the
English text of his prophecy as it was
published at Liverpool, in the " Pearl of
Great Price," in the year 1851.

A Revelation and Prophecy by the
Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, Joseph Smith,
given 25th December, 1832 :—

" Verily thus saith the Lord, concerning
the wars that will shortly come to pass,
beginning at the rebellion of South Carolina*
which will eventually terminate in the death
and misery of many souls. The days will
come that war will be poured out upon all
nations, beginning at that plane ; for behold,
the Southern States shall be divided against
the Northern States, and the Southern,
States will call on other nations, even the
nation of Great Britain, as it is called ; and
they shall also call upon other nations, in
order to defend themselves against other
nations ; and thus war shall be poured out
upon all nations. And it shall dome to pass,
after many days, slaves shall rise up agatasst
their masters, who shall be marshalled and
disciplined for war. And it shall come to
pass also that the remnants who are left of
the land will marshal themselves, and shall
become exceeding angry, and shall tsx the
Gentiles with a sore vexation; and thus,
with the sword and by bloodshed, the in-
habitants of the earth shall mourn ; and with
famine, and plague, and earthquakes, and
the thnnder of heaven, and the fierce and
vivid lightning also, shall the inhabitants of
the earth be made to feel the wrath and In-
dignation and chastening hand of an Al-
mighty God, until the consumption decreed.

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE*

22V

Ubaide a full end of all nations ; that the
cry of the Saints and of the blood of the
Stints shall cease to oome np into tbe ears
of the Lord of Sabaotb, from the earth, to
be avenged of their enemies. Wherefore,
stand ye in holy places, and be not moved,
until the day of the Lord oome ; for behold
H eosneth quickly, saith the Lord. Amen."

These words sre 10 Tory clear and plain
that they need no' comment. We are going
to see the literal fulfilment of the whole
prophecy.

la the present state of human
knowledge, America forms the problem of
problems foe the most learned individuals in
the world. The mysterious origin of the
rod man, as well ss the origin of the
American antiquities, is entirely unknown
to modern science. For the Christian
theology, and for the sceptic philosophy,
A sauries Is a most precious book which they
are unable to read: hence the necessity
of a special revelation. Being a necessary
complement of all anterior revelations, this
Dirine message reveals the past, the present,
and the future of tbe new continent and of
the rest of the world, inaugurates the great
and last dispensation of the fulness of times,
and opens to mankind the door of a celestial
era. Out of the light of that new re? elation
it is utterly impossible, even to the most
learned men, to understand tbe extreme
gravity of the present times. That is the
reason why the European publicists did not
fo r es ee the American crisis, and are very
nv from being able to predict the final
result of it.
Sire, — I am going to do the work for

The great Elohim, the living God of IsrasI,
is as little known now at the cathedral oh
Notre Dame of Paris, or at the Vatican, aa
he was known at Athens when Paul went
there to preach tbe Gospel to tbe Areopagi.

In the plan of His providence, the work
of George Washington was only a pro-
visional government, in order that His king-
dom might be founded on the earth. Since
the 6th day of April, 1830, when it was at
first organized with only six indifiduals,
that kingdom has so widely extended that
it possesses to-day, near the centre of North,
America, a Territory called Utah, nearly as
large as France. The work of Washington
is going to miserably destroy itself. Tou
will soon see that young and powerful
kingdom in His hands the political direction
of the American people, reconciling the-
three hostile posterities of Shem, of Japhet,
and Canaan, which are parts of it, resolving;
all the great problems which sre before
mankind, forming the angular stone of the
New World, and initiating the whole earth
into the knowledge of the true God and hia
Christ.

I supplicate the Almighty to pour out on
your head his most precious gifts and
blessings, and to inspire you with the will
of granting my request.

Sire, — Permit me to present to you the
offering of my devotedness, and of the
profound respect with which I have tbe
honour to be your Majesty's most humble,
most faithful, and most obedient servant,

Louis A. Bbbtrand.
Paris, 14th March, 1861."

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.
Norwich, March 22, 1861.

President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I embrace the present
opportunity of reporting to you in brief
By field of labour, the Norwich District.
It extends into eight different counties,
coainostng the Norwich and Bedfordshire
Conferences. We have in the Norwich
Conference, at present, fourteen Branches,
numbering 420 Saints^ We have five
balls of public worship. The other
Branches being; small, no nails as yet have
been procured, but the Saints meet in
arivnie houses. The Conference is divided
into three districts, and we have bat one

Travelling Elder in the Conference. I
have, of late, called out two young men
to ' the ministry to fill the vacancies.
The Saints in this Conference feel the
good Spirit of our God, and in a number
of places the spirit of Inquiry is good,
and! our halls are pretty well filled with
strangers, and a good spirit prevails. We
look forward to the spring and summer
for a good gathering to the Church.
Numbers that have stepped out of the
fold in times past are now coming to our
meetings, and say that they can find no
peace anywhere else. Since January
last, we have baptized 17 in this Con-
ference, who are rejoicing in the truth,
and we shall baptize more in a few days.

Digitized by

O0SH8MNMMR»

222

Brother Bendey, the Prenoeat of ibis
(Jonference, is labouring with good suc-
cess. Brother WilHam Jefferies, the
former Pastor of this District, ft labour-
ing at the present in this Conference.
Since he has been released to go home to
Zion, he has been travelling throughout
this District, and goes home to Zion with
our blessing.

Elder Bramall, woo was appointed in
September last to travel in this District,
28 still labouring here successfully.

The Bedfordshire Conference is com- 1
posed of 15 Branches. We have five
tails for public worship : the remainder
of the Branches hold tneir meetings in
private houses. The Conference is very
widely scattered, the Branches being from
JO to 25 miles apart. It is divided into four
districts, with a Travelling Elder over
each. Our meetings are well attended,
the halls being filled to overflowing, and
a good spirit prevails. We have baptised,
since January last, 27. Numbers more
are about ready, and many that have
left the Church now attend our meetings.
The prospects are fair for a greater
ingathering into the Church. We
look forward with faith that this spring
and summer will bring many into the
Church.

Brother Bufl, the President of this Con-
ference, is labouring with good success.

This District numbers 920 Saints,
the great majority of whom are poor in
this world's goods; but I am happy to say
that they are rich in faith, and are a
willing and obedient people. The Tra-
velling Ministry are all united with
sne in preaching the Gospel, energetic
in carrying out all the regulations of the
District, and one in spirit to assist to
roll on the great work of our God.

The numbers that will emigrate from
this District this year will be small.
There will not be over 50, but most of
them will go all the way through.

I could employ half-a-dozen Elders
more, and their labours are much needed.
We have full freedom to preach the
Gospel, and there is no spirit to mob
at all. Many strangers attend our
meetings.

I have laboured in this Mission with
great pleasure for the last 18 months,
and have had many seasons of rejoicing
with the Saints. I have everywhere been
received with kindness by them, and my
prayer is that God wiU overrule circum-

stances for their good, that they n m y W
gathered home to Zion and rejoice with
the faithful. I have laboured in thfe
District with great pleasure, and have
been received very kindly by the Saints.
I know that they are a good people, and
are striving to do right and earn their
eternal reward.

Ever praying for your prosperity in
your Presidency, I am your brother insist
truth,

E. H. BfcACKBUBK.

Hessel-HeBspstead, March 19, 1M.

President Cannon.

Dear Brother,!— Since the Presidency
at Liverpool were pleased to release me
from my labours, with leave to go to Zion*
I have turned over to my soooeseor*
Elder Bull, the business matters of the
Conference, and accompanied htm, em
foot, to the several Brunches comprising^
the same, preaching, more or less, nearly
every night in the week, as well as two or
three times on the Sunday, which has
been no very easy task, seeing thai the
Branches extend into six different coun-
ties — vu., Bedford, Hertford, Cambridge,
Huntingdon, Northampton,and Budting*
ham. We have been received very kinder
and treated with marked respect, not only
the Saints, but by many out of the
arch, some of whom will dossfasJesn
soon become members: indeed, some of
them are already baptized. Several of owr
meeting-rooms are crowded to excess with
anxious hearers; and from 100 to 150
have been known to be outside during the
Sunday evening services.

I presume I have now (at least for the
present,) finished my ministerial laboura
m the Bedfordshire Conference and the
British Mission. I purpose, if time and
means will admit, riuting some of my old
friends and relatives. Should the Lord
prosper me temporally, after I arrive in
the valleys of Ephraim, I must not fbsv
get my friends in Babylon. At present I
feel like exerting all the energies of my
body and mind to deliver them, because
I know that, as well as a pleasure, it is a
duty imposed upon me ; and were I not
to do it, I should not deservedly prosper,
spiritually or temporally.

I shall leave this country with the very
best feelings towards all with whom ana
for whom I have laboured. My brethren
who have been my in st r u c t or s, as n>

Digitized by

8UMMART

general thing, have been my true friends,
and, I may add, have acted the Dart of
fathers, not masters. If, at any time, I
have not been careful to carry out their
counsels, I humbly crave their forgiveness,
I want to leave my fatherland having the
love and approbation of all my acquaint-
ances both in and out of the Church.
If, however, some have a feeling of hatred
towards me, because I have dared to bear
my testimony to them in behalf of God's
great work, so be it.

I cannot refrain from making a passing
remark or two respecting those who have
so repeatedly lodged, fed, and clothed me,
and given me money. Although they have
done it to one of the least of God s ser-
vants, they shall in no wise lose their re-
•ward. My prayer is that Heaven will
smile upon them.

It does not occur to my mind that,
during the time that I have been identi-
fied with the Church of Christ, I have
ever purposely injured any one in either
thought, word, or deed, directly or indi-
rectly. Doubtless I have had my imper-
fections, but I have tried to live the
religion I have professed, both in private
and in public, by precept and by example.
Hence 1 have a conscience void of offence
both towards God and towards man.

My testimony is, to-day, the same as it
has been, that "MormoniBm" (so called
hj this world) is the true ism. By its
power, through the administrations of its
Priesthood, 1 have been healed, when to all
human appearance my spirit must within

a few moflKntB have made its exit from

mortality.

The Spirit of God has, at times,
enabled me to restrain the wrath of man ;
and the same Spirit has revealed to my
mind things past, present, and to oome.
I do know that it is essentially necessary
that mankind should believe in God the
Father, and in Jesus Christ his Son, and
in the divine authority of Joseph Smith
and his successors, repent sincerely of all
their sins, and be baptized for the remis-
sion of the same, and then have bands
laid upon them for the reception of the
Holy Ghost — the Spirit of promise, which
Spirit will make manifest to their minds the
truth and actual necessity of gathering
to " Utah, far away," or any other place
indicated by the finger of God as the
place of rerage from the calamities that
are to come upon the wicked nations of
the earth. That same Spirit will un-
doubtedly, if encouraged, make plain to
their understandings every other principle
necessary to their final redemption and
exaltation. My prayer is that truth,
eternal truth, may spread far and wide,
until the honest and virtuous of all na-
tions, tribes, tongues, and peoples shall be
savingly influenced by it, and the work
of our God be brought to a glorious con-
summation.

With sentiments of the highest esteems
I begto subscribe myself

Your brother in the cause of Christ,

Joseph Silykb.

SUMMABY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Genvbax. — Victor Emmanuel now signs all documents with the title of King of Italy.
The Emperor of Austria has issued a decree granting to Venetia the right of sending 20
delegates to the Council of the Empire. The Emperor has also sanctioned the proposed
political re-organization of Transylvania, by which that province will be restored to its
former position of autonomy. In the Herzegovina, hostilities continue between the
insurgents and the Turkish troops. A telegram from Warsaw says that the following
reforms for Poland have been proclaimed : — " National establishments of a superior class
for public instruction, and especially an academy for legal instruction, are to be opened.
A Council of State is to be composed of members of the clergy, dignitaries, and the
most distinguished persons of Poland. The right of petition is granted to the nation.
The Government Councillors, the District Councillors, and the municipalities of the
larger towns, are to be elected >y the inhabitants."

American.— The new Lincoln Cabinet is now officially announced. By intelligence
received from Montgomery, it appears that President Davis has put "the whole
Machinery of the new nationality in operation. He has inaugurated an elaborate war
policy, and will have in the field before the first of April over fifty thousand soldiers,
commanded by able and experienced officers, most of whom belonged to the United States
Army. We have intelligence also to the effect that at the moment there is a clash of

Digitized by

224

POETRY. — MONEY UST.

ajpn* between the lections, the new army will be largely swelled by both officers and
regulars. It is expected that the first clash of arms will probably take place in
Charleston harbour. Reports from Virginia are that a perfect reaction has taken place
throughout the State. The so-called submissionists are no longer on the " wait a little
longer** order, bnt are for immediate secession. Everybody wishes the State to leave the
Union, and the military is nightly on guard. The chief item of interest from Central
America is that announcing the capture of Bogota, the capital of New Grenada, by
Mosqnera, the retolutionary general.

POETRY.

LINES ON LEAVING BABYLON.

I am weary of BabMon's din —
Of Babylon's strife and toils ;

I bate the hydra- monster, sin,
That round all nations coilt.

Oh it's horrible to behold #

Fair virtue bartered away :
To the gpd of the Gentiles, gold,

All tribes their vain homage pay.

Oh, it's torture to hear the cry,
Of the famished poor for bread :
' <* No labour-^no money to buy,"
. In tears they wish themselves " dead."

Moat gladly I'll leave such turmoil —

Migrate to a sunny land,
Where the rich mellow virgin soil

I mites strong Industry's hand.

Southampton.

I will go where the music and song
Will inspire the minds of «//,—

Where the meek and the weak grow strong,
And blessings from heaven fall.

I will go where the orphan's wails
And the widow's cries are stilled, —

Where pure philanthropy prevails,
And the hungry soul is filled.

Yes, I will go where right is might,

And truth is ever told,—
Where the Saints- life In peace and light.

Like the Saints in timet* of old.
Yes, with joy I will We me home; .

In Zion I long to dwell,
Where Messiah will surely come :

Gladly I'll go. All is well,! • .

Edward Hamiaw.

MONEY LIST,

K, L. T. Harrison

John Clarke

John Reed

H. W. BarftfKt

Fdward Cliff.-

Edward Beid

Charles turner

H. Duncan

\V. H. Dame

3tark Barues ... «

John C. Graham

s. Hargraves

George Reed

8. H. B. Smith

Abraham Or me «.

W. Thurgood «

Edward Han ham

Willet Harder

John H. Kelson ...
William H. Pitts...
Aaron Nelson ,

FEBRUARY 12-MABCH 12, 1861.

2,0
b 1

6 10
11

1 5
8 8

7 •

3 1*

1 6

2 9

4 11*
2

1 11 10

2 18 24

2 JO
1 12 7
11 10

3 *0

«i

Brought forward.... ..^.Jgfft

William Moss ............. 3

Thomns Liez J. 1

J. Hnll „. a

Thomas Mumford , l-

W. Hopwood , \

W. O. Owen 1

W. T. Cromar ........ ' 1

James D. Hirst 1

William Dal 1 in . f . 1

R. Bentley t 2

C. W. Penrose j—^.

John Cook ; [ .*. "20

J. Gihbs o

John Grithths . Q

E. Burgoyne

G. G. By water .....1 „ 1

Edwin Price .. ^ Q

V. M. Davies

John DavieS

Thomas Rees „

17 0*

7 S

13 02

{ £

17 U

7 *r

11 44

Hi 10

IP 2 V
U

o <>

1 4

U U
' 8*

7 7*

2 n"

8 b*

1 lr

Carried forward... ^£59 17 »4

CONTENTS

f ontrast between the Saints and the World 209

A Sailing Sermon— Not Spritualized 21 1

History of Joseph Smith 214

Editorial. -The Gospel System-The Confidence

it Bestows.— News from the United States... 217
Important Appeal to the Emperor of the French 224

Correspondence.-- England : Letters from Elders

Blackburn and Silver 251

Summary of News and Passing Events 22*.

Poetry.— Lines on Leaving Babylon , 224,

Money List % .-. 1J4

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNOtT, 4;, ISLINGTON.

LONDON: !

.DORSAL* AT THE LATTER DAV SAINTS'BOOK DEPOT, 30, FJ.OUKNCK STREET, cr.OSS STREHT, ISllNOtOJ^

AND ALL BOOKsKLLEUS. ^ f

PRINTED IT JAMBS AND NKPHBW, 51, SOI Til JOHN STREKT, LIVERPOOL, '

Digitized by

Google

THB LATTER-DAT SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAB.

** A noiee shall ceme even U the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the natianet
\e nxU plead with alljtcih} he will give them that are wieked to the rword, saith the Lord."—

No. 15, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, April 13, 1861. Price One Penny.

TRUE LIBERTY.

BY &LDBB E. L. BLOAV.

Liberty is a priceless possession. Its
value can scarcely be over- estimated, and its
enjoyment is one of the choicest blessings
which heaven has bestowed upon mankind.

Poets^ have sung of it in burning
words, painters have drawn pure draughts
of inspiration from its bloody contests
with despotism and tyranny, and his-
torians have chronicled tjhese contests in,
many a tragic page.

' From the Spartan Leonidas down to
the last man who has struggled in the
sacred cause of liberty, brave hearts have
not been wanting to stand out boldly and
struggle valiantly against the power of
tyranny, that man might be free in
speech and free in action, and in a posi-
tion to develop every noble quality with
which the Author of his being fyis en-
dowed him.

Still, true liberty embodies something
more than is generally understood when
the word is used. There is a slavery
more degrading and a tyranny more
baneful than any which man can enforce
upon his fellow-inan; a liberty to be ob-
tained, without which the greatest amount
of personal and national freedom would
be peYwert'ed and destroyed.

lie who is the slave of his own passions,
and suffers the tyranny of eyil propensities,
is incapable* of aftmeci^tmg or enjoying
thie blessif^ of-ljoerty, and unfitted |o

extend to others the proper exercise of
those rights which might be guaranteed
to them.

This is the root of all the tyrannies, des-
potisms, and persecutions which have ever
existed in the world, whether those 4
tyrannies have been of a secular or eccle-
siastical nature— whether exeroised by an
autocrat, a priest, or a mob. And so long
as mankind ate the subjects of the baser
qualities of their natures, and* suffer the
rule of unrighteous passions, just so long
will man endeavour to subjugate his
fellow-man to his will* and rob him of
those precious rights bestowed upon him
by the God of heaven, when he created
him a free and intelligent agent;

If the great conq.uerorsl.«f the world,
who watered the earth with the blood of
their victims, had not been the slaves of a
mad ambition, at whose command they
followed the phantom of ear thly^toryjthey -
could have had no pleasure in robbing
their fellows of liberty, home, and happi-
ness, and coverirg nations with misery;
wailing, and desolation, if the greitt
ones of the earth were not rthe slaves of
an unbridled lust for power and an un-
righteous pride, they could find no plea-'
sure,* no enjoyment in the servile homage
and lip adocatbn of ormging subjects and
cowering menials, who oannot^help,coiy .
tracing, often in bitterness ef spirit, the s

226

TRUE LIBERTY.

luxury and pomp of those who claim their
h. mage with their own squalor and
wretchedness.

Revolutions have swept away, with
nighty arms, thrones, and institutions,
i n«i in many instances have erected the
<iei<potism of unbridled license in their
places, while the down- trodden masses
have revelled in the worship of false
lib rty for n brief day, till some ambitious
master- minds have reduced the chaotic
rnaw to order, and established new go-
vernments, having within them more or
le*8 of the despotic character of those
which had been overthrown.

B »t every revolution subserved the
cause of true liberty just in proportion to
the amount of self-control and personal
government manifested in the actions of,
and exercised by the men who conceived,
m»t ured, and brought it into being, and
the people who participated in it.

No bloodier drama was ever enacted on
the world's stage than the French Revo-
lution at the close of the last century, and
the very cause of its bloodiness was the
incapacity of those engaged in it to con-
trol , themselves under the new-found
liberty they had, with red-handed haste,
created. Every wild passion which
rages in the bosoms of ungovernable
men was lashed into uncontrollable fury,
and victims by the thousand fell beneath
the axe of the guillotine or the vengeful
hands of the mob. And the very men
wh ) acted the most conspicuous parts in
it, were, as their warmest eulogists admit,
incapable of controlling the maddened
masses, while the acts of Robespierre,
M*rar, and fitanton do not bespeak a
*eit- government commensurate with the
importance of the parts they had assumed.
The results of that revolution are too well
known to comment upon. From it
sprang a military despotism, whose influ-
ence is even now widely felt, and wliich
wrecked the peace and threatened the
liberties of all Europe.

Contrast with this the American Re-
volutionary War of Independence. Cha-
racterized as it was by many sanguinary
scenes, which must necessarily attend
every struggle where a people endeavour
to .cast off a foreign yoke, still the wild
play of passions was measurably held in
check by the noble spirits who inaugu-
rated and consummated it; and its
j>rimal results* were in consonance with
the tea ven- born liberty which animated

the bosoms of a Washington, a FrankHn,
and their compeers. But it is perfectly
possible for a constitution to be purchased
« the best blood of a generation, and
to be framed upon the broadest basis of
liberty, and its operation to be nullified by
the illiberal actions of those upon whom it
is bestowed,— such illiberality resulting
from the tyranny of passion, prejudice,
and opinion. Holding, as every man will
do, that the opinion he entertains is right,
is no reason for enforcing that opinion
upon another ; and the endeavour to coerce
others into a unity of opinion with ourselves,
against their wish or desire, is a tyranny
both mean and despicable, and futile
only because those who wish to exercise it
have not the strong arm of power to aid
their efforts : but where a people, swayed
by prejudice and moved by an unholy and
illiberal zeal, strive, under the sacred mgi*
of a free constitution, to rob their fellow-
citizens of their true and inalienable right
to worship God acccording to their
belief and the dictates of their own con-
sciences, they mock the very name of
liberty, and out-herod the worst despots,
whose acts of tyranny have caused nations
to groan and suffer. Such has been the
case on the American continent with re-
gard to the Saints, under that very Con-
stitution framed by free men upon the
most liberal basis ; and if such has not
been the case on this land, it is because
the laws are more powerfully administered,
and not because the feeling did not exist
in the breast of many professed followers
of Him whose Spirit dictated — "Ye are
free whom the truth hath made free."

But the present condition of the Ame-
rican Confederacy is a painful proof of
the truth here advanced. Reputedly the
freest nation on the earth, it is racked and
torn asunder by internal divisions ; and
the only liberty which the bulk of the na-
tion aeems to aspire to is the liberty te
gratify their own unbridled desires, inde-
pendent and irrespective of the rights and
privileges of others. The same feeling
and desire exists in every nation and under
every government now dominant upon
the earth; but there it has had freer room
to develop itself than in any other, because
of the greater amount of freedom guaran-
teed to all by the Constitution. Yet the
very fact of man endeavouring to coerce
his fellow-man into a compulsory action
with himself, in a land of liberty, and
under a constitution guaranteeing freedonx

Digitized by Google

THUS LIBUTT.

227

to all, is ample demonstration of the
truth that he who is the slave of his own
•passions and desires is incompetent to
enjoy and appreciate liberty, being subject
to a tyranny which would chain toe mind
And bind the very soul, if possible, in fetters
of brass.

But we have only to look around us in
ear every- day walks through life, peruse
the public prints, or look into our own
hearts, and we shall find enough of this
slavery and despotism in our own per-
sonal experience.

There is not a village, in the land but
has its petty tyrant — not a sect but has its
sealots wishing for the strong interference
of legislative power to crush the heresies
which surround them — scarcely a family
hut has its despot; and all cherishing
strongly the desire, if they cannot exercise
the power, to make others yield to their
wishes and subscribe to their opinions.
•Slaves themselves to the dominion of un-
ffoverned and depraved passions, they feel
like incipient autocrats, who only lack the
power to make mankind tremble at their
nod. Such men will drive unwilling
TOters to the polling booths, crowd
churches with careless and disgusted con-
gregations, slander rival sectaries, stir
ap the passions of the ignorant to overt
acts of wrong- doing, and set in motion
the whole machinery of malice and petty
persecution, which aids in producing the
chaotic condition of society which we
■and it in.

Allied to this there is the slavery of
snoral and social sin. Men subject to
their own depraved propensities are iu-
-eapable of governing themselves," and,
-consequently, incapacitated \o govern
households and families. Moved by
every evil and lustful desire, they sow by
their unholy actions the seeds of corrup-
tion and disease in their own tabernacles,
and transmit the same to their posterity.
Ungoverned by the laws of righteousness,
they give free play to their passions and
fill their homes with misery and wretched-
awes. Trampling on the very effigy of
virtue, they may by hypocrisy and fraud
gain the love, but cannot retain either it
er the esteem of pure confiding women.
Hence dissensions are fostered in the
family circle, and confidence flees from
the hearth where its altar should be
arected. Haters of truth, they cannot
estpect but that their posterity wm excel in
iaisehood, duplicity, and fraud. Blas-

phemers of that which is good, and
workers of iniquity, they may look for
the succeeding generation more than
equalling them in wickedness. Illiberal
in their views, and extreme in their
opinions, they may undoubtedly believe
that their children will do honour to the
tuition they receive.

It may be alleged that this language ia .
illiberal, but it is true ; and declaring the
truth is not Uliberality. Go into any
large assembly and let a popular subject
be under consideration, and every allusion
to some idol of the body assembled will
evoke rounds of applause ; but let an un-
popular subject be introduced, and the
hisses and groans would cause a coterie
of serpents to crawl away in disgust and
scare dying sphinxes into silence.

Let but the cause of truth be advo-
cated and the principles of the everlast-
ing Gospel be declared by the Latter-day
Saints in many of the thoroughfares of
our large towns, and the noisy clamour of
ignorance will drown the message of life,
while solemn- visaged Reverends in sable
uniform will crowd around, spitting forth
venom and spleen, and the gruff voice of
a policeman will belikely to cry, "Move on 1 "
Yet drunkards can reel there at will, blas-
phemers can insult Heaven in the face of
the noonday sun unreproved, and the
painted and bedizened harlot can ply her
awful trade unmolested and encouraged;
and this in a land that sings of liberty^
fights for liberty, prays for liberty, and
pays for liberty.

It is not that we are not living in a
free land and enjoying the blessings of a
liberal government, but it is because men
enjoying liberty of thought and speech
are slaves to their own carnal natures*
It was not because the American OonstU
tution did not guarantee to the citiaens of
that republic the blessings of liberty, that
the Saints were despoiled, driven, and
persecuted, but because man was illiberal
and inhuman in his Uliberality, subject to
the despotism of unbridled passion and
sin. Therefore, while man has been over-
turning empires, rooting up thrones, and
preparing liberal constitutions, God baa
been working to introduce those prin-
ciples of truth upon the earth which will'
enable man to obtain the victory over
himself, by conquering every foe to hie
happiness and peace within his own osw,
ganusatlon, whereby he can enjoy the true
liberty of doing right and aid his fellow-

228

AN AFFBCTIONATB GOOD BYB.

man to enjoy the same heaTen-gtven free-
dom. When these principles are under-
stood, received, and universally applied,
then will the poet's aspirations be truly
realized —

" When man shall find lh every "place
A brother and a friend,"

not meeting in his neighbour a lurking
foe who would rob him of his dearest
rights and strive to bind him by a coer-
cive influence.

Latter-day Saints, as the avowed cham-
pions of the fullest freedom and the
truest liberty, we are called upon by every
responsibility of duty to proclaim these

principles, not only by the voice and pen,
mat by being living ensamples of the
truths we bear, by putting away from us
all evil, shunning as we Would the touch
of leprosy everything which savours of
iniquity, and, learning to control our*
selves, our appetites, passions, and pro*
pensities under the laws of righteousness
revealed from the heavens, that our testi-
mony may be quick and powerful, carried
home to the hearts of the honest by tho
Spirit of truth, like the bullet from a rifle
held by a steady hand, and measured by a-
certain eye to tne mark it is aimed at.

At! AFFECTIONATE GOOD BYE.

A FAREWELL ADDRESS BY ELDER MItO AKORUfl.

Dear and well-beloved Saints, — As the
time of my departure from your shores is
near at hand, I thought that a few lines
might be acceptable to you, as a kind of
substitute for the hearty shake of the
hand ; and in this way I can shake with
many thousands at the same time. As '
the & me of starting approaches its termi-
nation, like an honest man I have been
looking over the books of the last eighteen
months, and, if possible, to find out how
the account stands between me and my
Father in heaven, and between me and
the rest of bis children that he has? sent
me to labour among for the last eighteen
months. In relation to my Father in
heaven, I feel much indebted to him for
preserving my Hfe, and granting me food
and raiment, and, above all, for raising up
warm- hearted friends, with whom I have
laboured with delight, both in England
and Wales.

I feel much indebted to the Saints for'
their kindness : they have comforted and
cheered me up many times. May the
Lord be kind and merciful to them, and
prepare the way for their escape! and may
we yet enjoy the society of each other in j
the vales of Utah \ There is a pleasure !
in my own reflections, whilst reviewing
my past labours in your midst, that arises
from the contemplation ; that there is
nothing low, nor yet mean, to be dis-
covered by any one after my departure,
from the simple fact that I shunned
all such things, although an imperfect

being. When I have walked and talked
with the Saints, whether under cover of
night, or in the midst of day, my object
has been to fortify the Saints, both male
and female, and give strength to their
virtues. I could say, without boastings
and with a clear conscience, on the last-
named subject, 41 Be ye followers of me,
as I am of Christ/' I here repeat what
I have often said to the Saints, that many
of the noblest of men and women destined
in the economy of God to bear rule are
not yet born on this planet. - The chan-
nels of production of our own species
have become much corrupted, and
those spirits Who, like Jesus, have their
own agency will not come through cor-
rupted channels. He came through a
virgin pure and spotless. This should
serve as a stimulant to all to live pure and
shun every species of iniquity. If you
will do all in your power, then will the
Holy Spirit be shed forth to aid you in
jour onward journey through the present

As I am writing, my mind flies to the
firesides of many of the Saints, where
the big arm-chair, or, as it is more fa-
miliarly called, the master's chair, has been
kindly tendered me, and the family
listened to the instruction that the Lord
has enabled me to give them in my humble
way. 1 I can feel that the Lord has
mutually blessed us, and I hope that the
lessons of truth will never be. forgotten
by us. And now T come to speak of the

Digitized by Google

HISTORY OF JOOKPA SMITH.

Birmingham Saints, with whom I have
been more immediately connected for the
part four months. They have felt to
rejoice whilst the Lord has shed forth his
Spirit upon as. The Saints and Elders
have done the best that they could
to carry out the counsels delivered to
them.

Now, my dear brethren and sisters, I
dedicate these few lines to you, and in the
name of the Lord, bless it with the Spirit
to comfort and cheer you; and when you
read, the Spirit will bear record that
t)ie writer feels for your welfare. I
alto beg an interest in your prayers,
whilst I cross the deep blue sea and
the desert plains. Pray for us, that
the elements may be controlled for our

As it regards the progress of the work
in the Birmingham District, it is steadily
on the increase. The Saints say that they
never felt better : the Presidents of the
Conferences, together with the Travelling
and Local Priesthood, have done their
duty to the best of their knowledge.
May the Lord still continue to bless
them and the Saints with whom they
labour.

Dear brethren and sisters, permit me
here to say to yon, Put forth your united
hearts and hands, with your faith and
means, to roll on the work, and it will go
easy. It will be as Jesus said — "My yoke
is easy, and my burden is light."
. Finally, dear SaintSygood- bye! It will be
*v grief to me to hear of any one leaving
the Church of Christ. 1* hope better
things of you. Bat if we would keep the
faith, we must so live that the Holy Spirit
frill dwell with us. It will be a joy to
me to meet you in the Valleys of the
If oun tains. My heart is full of blessings
for the cause of Qod, and for those that have

received the Gospel in good and honest
hearts.

I shall be glad to hear from any of
you at Liverpool; but you must not
expect a reply.

Your servant for Christ and the Gos-
pel's sake,

Milo Akdbus.

We had a eood time io Birmingham;
on Easter Sunday. We held the Monthly
Conference meeting and the Town Dis-
trict meeting at the same time. In the
morning, brother Andrus spoke to the
Priesthood. He exhorted them to attend
to their duties ; always to be on hand
when wanted, to stand firm to the work,
to live so as to have the Holy Spirit
always with them, and to gather to Zioa
as soon as possible. They felt to rejoice
in his instructions, and determined to
carry out his suggestions, because they
could see that they were dictated by tb*
Holy Spirit, and were calculated to oauaa
them to advance in the work. In tht
afternoon, brother Mills, in his jocular*
humoursome manner, gave us a sketch of
the passage out. He detailed the horror*
of sea-sickness and other disasters of sea
life in such a manner as caused the most
sedate persons to smile, and made all to
feel much better over it than they will
when experiencing the same. In the
evening, the brethren who are about to,
emigrate bore their testimonies, aad left
a good feeling with the people. The
Saints felt well, and all felt to rejoice in
M Mormontem," and to stick to it till the
last. It was a day that will be long
remembered by the Birmingham Saints.

[Reported by Sidney W. Darke.]

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Coniimud from page 217.)

in Nauvoo having assembled. The choir
sang the hymn— " Ye slumbering nation*
that have slept a long night."

Elder Rigdon offered an affectionate
appeal, for the prayers of the Saints on

[April, 1844.]

Sunday, 7th. Very pleasant morning.
'The President arrived at ten o'clock, the
largest congregation of people ever seen

Digitized by

230

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

behalf of the sick, and then prayer by
Elder George J. Adams.

Choir sang the hymn — " The Spirit of
God like a fire is burning," &c.

The Mayor requested the people to
keep good order, and observe to mind the
police who are round the outskirts of the^
congregation to keep order. "Police-*
men, I want you to exercise your autho-
rity; and don't say 'you can't do any.
thing' for us, for the constitutional power
calls you to keep good order, and God
Almighty calls you, and we command you
to do it. 6

Elder Sidney Rigdon arose and con-
tinued his subject of yesterday.

Choir sang the benediction.

During the intermission, thirty-five
were baptized in the Mississippi river for
the remission of their sins.

At two o'clock, p.m., Patriarch Hyrum
Smith arrived at the stand, and said he
wanted to speak something about the
Temple.

"We want 200,000 shingles, as we
■hall resume the work on the Temple im-
mediately. All who have not paid their
Tithing, come on end do it. We want pro-
visions, money, beardf, planks, and any-
thing that it good: we don't want any
more old guns or watohes. I thought some
time ago I would get up a small subscription,
to that the sisters might do something.
In consequence of some misunderstanding,
it has not gone on as at first. It is a matter
of my own : I do not ask it as a tithing.
I give a privilege for any one to pay a cent
a week, or fifty cents a year, I want it by
next fall to buy nails and glass. It is
difficult to get money. I know that a
assail subscription will bring in more than
a large one. The poor can help in this
way. I take the responsibility upon
myself, and call again upon the sisters. I
call again until I get about gl,000. It
only requires 2,000 subscribers.

I have sent this subscription to England
and the Branches. I fear no one this side
of hell. I am not to be dictated to by any
one except the prophet and God. I want
you to pay in your subscriptions to me, and
it shall always be said boldly by me, The
sisters bought the glass in that house, and
their names shall be written in the Book of
the Law of the Lord. It is not a tax, but a
tree- will offering to procure something which
shall ever be a monument of your works.
No member of the Female Belief Society got
It up. 1 am the man that did it. They

ought not to infringe upon it. I am not »
member of the Female Belief Society. JL
am one of the committee of the Lord'*
House.

I wish to accomplish something. I wiser -
all the Saints to have an opportunity to do-
something. I want the poor to have a.
chance with the purse of five dollars. The
widow's two mites were more in the eye*
of the Lord than the purse of the rich; and.
the poor woman shall hare a seat in the
house of God, — she who pays her two mites,
as much as the rioh, because it is all they
hare. I wish all to hare a place in that
house. I intend to stimulate the brethren.
I want to get the roof on this season. I
want to get the windows in, in the winter^
so that we may be able to dedicate the-
House of the Lord by this time next yeary
if nothing more than one room. I will calls
upon the brethren to do something.

I oannot make a comparison between the~
house of God and anything now in exist-
ence. Great things are to grow ont of that,
house. There is a great and mighty power
to grow out of it. There is an endowment.
Knowledge is power. We want know-
ledge. We have frequently difficulties withr
persons who profess to be Latter-day
Saints. When the sacrament will be ad-
ministered in the Lord's Honse, it will de
away with a great deal of difficulty that ia
now in existence. If we can bare a privilege
and confess onr faults unto God and one
another every Sabbath-day, it will do away
with these. You poor sisters shall have a
seat in that house. I will stand on the top
of the pulpit and proclaim to all what the
sisters hare done. When you offer up
your sacraments every Sabbath, you will
feel well a whole week ; you will feel te
get a great portion of the Spirit of God-
enough to last you a week, and you will
increase. We are now deprived^ of the
privilege of giving the neoeessary instruc-
tion ; hence we want a house.

All the money shall be laid out for what
you design it. It shall not be paid for any-
thing else. I am one of the committee.
The committee tell me the quarry is block-
aded; it is filled with rock. The stone-
cutters are wanting work. Come on with>
yonr teams as soon as Conference is over*
It is not neoessary for me to tell who will
come and do it. I will prophesy that you
will do it. There is not oue in- the city bat
whut will do right if he knows it, only one
or two exceptions, and they are not worth
notice. God will take care of them ; and if
he don't, the Devil will. I described then*
once, and you will always know them while
you see them : they will keep hopping till
they hop out of town. Some are tree-toads^

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

231

who climb the trees and are continually
croaking.

We are now the moat noble people on the
face of the globe, and we hare no occasion
to fear tadpoles. We are designated bj
the All-seeing Eye, designated to do good,
not to stoop to any low thing. We are
spt to suffer prejudice to get into our
hearts on hearing reports : we never should
allow it — never should pass our judgment
until we hear both sides.

I will tell a Dutoh anecdote. A certain
Dutchman had a cause brought before him,
and heard one side, and he gave in his
decision — ' By sure you have got the case !'
and when the other party brought their
witnesses, he said again, ' By sure you have
got the case, too 1* If you hear of any one
high in authority, that he is rather inclined
to apostacy, don't let prejudice arise, but
pray for him. God may feel after him, and
he may return. Never speak reproachfully
or disrespectfully : he is in the hand of God.
1 am one of those peacemakers who take a
stand above these little things.

It has been intimated we should have
investigations this Conference. Do joa
think I would trouble this Conference with
it? If 1 have a difficulty with a man, I will
go and settle it. Let them settle their
difficulties. There is not a man who has
had a difficulty who would trouble this con-
gregation about it. We ask no favours ; we
can settle it ourselves. Don't think any- j
thing about persons who are on the eve of ,
apostacy: God is able to take care of them.
Let God judge; do your duty, and let men |
alone. I

Never undertake to destroy men because |
they do some evil thing. It is natural for a i
man to be led, and not driven. Put down |
iniquity by good works. Many men speak
without any contemplation ; but when they
have a little contemplation, it would not
have been spoken. We ought to be careful
what we say, and take the example of Jesus,
cast over the mantle of charity, and try to
cover their faults. We are made to en-
lighten, and not to darken one another. Save
men, but not destroy men. Do unto others
what you would have them do unto you. It
is well enough to root out conspiracy. Do
not fear but if you are in the right track,
having God to guide you, he will save you ;
for God will save you, if he has to destroy
the wicked so as by fire.

I want to put down all false influence.
If I thought I should be saved, and any in
in the congregation be lost, I should not be
happy. For this purpose Jesus effected a
resurrection. Our Saviour is competent to
save all from death and hell. I can prove
it out of the Revelations. I would not serve

a God that had not all wisdom and all
power.

The reason why I feel so good is becau«e
I have a big soul. There are men with
small bodies who have got souls like Enoch.
We have gathered out big souls from tba
ends of the earth. The Gospel picks out
the big souls out of all creation, and we
will get all the big souls out of all the
nations, and we shall have the largest city
in the world. It works just like a God.

We will gather out all the big souls out
of every nation. As soon as the Gospel
catches hold of noble souls, it brings them
all right up to Zion. There is a thing
called an eye-star. The Gospel is sinvkr.
Then we will have a people great enough
to be saved.

Popery could not write what Enoch
preached. He told the people that the
Spirit of God took him up into a h .,h
mountain, showed him the distress of the
peoplo— the destruction of the world, and he
said his heart swelled wide as eternity. IJ-ur,
Popery could not receive anything as la
as that. Every society is just like th m.
God Almighty has made men's souls accord-
ing to the society in which they live, with
very few exceptions; and when men come
to live with the ' Mormons,* their sunk
swell as if they were going to stride tha
planets an Tstride the Republic of Amen ■ i.
I can believe that man can go from plum t
to planet — a man gets so high in the man-
sions above.

A certain good sister came to my hou«e,
and she was troubled because she heard so
many big things. She thought it weaken i
her faith. I told her she had too .much
faith. She believed too much. 1 will tell
you how you may know whether the thing
is true or not. When any come to you with
a lie, you feel troubled. . God will trouble
you, and will not approbate you in siuli
belief. You had better get some antidote
to get rid of it. Humble yourself before
God, and ask him for bis Spirit, and pray t >
him to judge it for you. It is better not t«.»
have so much faith than to have so much as
to believe all the lies. *

Before this Conference closes, I want to
get all the Elders together. I shall make a
proclamation. I want to take the line ui.d
axe and hew you, and make you as straight,
as possible. I will make you as straight as
a stretched line. Every Elder that gues
from Nauvoo to preach the Gospel, if h»j
preach anything else, we will silence him
through the public print. I want all th< :
Elders to meet and to understand; and if
they teach anything but the pure truth, we
wiil call them home."

[Reported by Elder Thomas Bullock.]
(To be continued,)

Digitized by

Google

232

EDITORIAL.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

SATURDAY, APRIL 13, 1861.

Hints for the Emigrating Saints, and which may also Profit those who
Remain. — As but a few weeks will elapse before the Saints who intend emigrating
this season will be upon the water, a few words upon the subject of Emigration will
be timely. The idea of gathering with the people of God in Zion has different
effects upon different individuals. There are some persons who, when they hear the
doctrine of the gathering together of the people of God advanced, have not faith to
receive it. They can believe in faith, repentance, baptism, and the laying on of
hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost ; but the gathering is something they cannot
think of; or, if they think of it, and talk about the time they say they have fixed upon
going, it is always in the future — always next season. There is nothing attractive to
such persons in the idea of leaving their fatherland for another across the ocean. In
their imagination they surround such a movement with everything that is dis-
agreeable, and cannot perceive any particular good they would be likely to gain by
making such a journey. People of this kind, though they would scarcely admit it to
themselves, much less to others, yield considerable credence to the miserable stories
that are current respecting »the land of Zion and their brethren and sisters who
reside there. Fear and doubt are lurking within them, and, instead of stifling such
feelings, they suffer them to influence their faith and actions. As this class very
seldom, if ever, gather, it is not with them that we have to do at present. They go
to one extreme ; but there is another extreme to which many go.

Tbey are in some repects the opposite of the class alluded to above. They picture
to themselves in the most glowing and fascinating colours the happiness and delights
they are going to experience when they reach Zion. They read and sing about
Zion as she was seen in vision by prophets and poets in the fulness of her bplendour
and majesty, and they do not appear to have any conception that this is not all enjoyed
now, or that she is other than the abode of perfection. They seem to expect that
when they arrive in her midst their bliss will be consummated.

If they endure any annoyance here, or if they should start and experience any
difficulties on their journey, they console themselves with the reflection that when
get to Zion they will not have such things to contend with any longer. Then
they think they will be among their bitten and their sisters, who will welcome them
with open arms ; they will be under the teachings of the Prophets and Apostles ;
they will be dwelling in a land consecrated to the people of the Lord, and breathing
a heavenly atmosphere ; and what can interfere with their happiness ? They mast
then experience sensations they never before knew. Tbey will be changed beings,
and especially must every one who may have preceded them be changed from erring,
fallible beings, to perfect, infallible men and women. True, their own ideas of what
perfection is are very crude ; yet all go provided with their own standard by which to>
measure it. There are as many different standards as there are individuals, and
each one expects Zion to agree with his particular standard. If she does not, there
is disappointment, and in many cases such disappointment terminates in apostacy.

Cases of this kind are very common. Notwithstanding all that is said on the

EDITORIAL. 233

subject, many leave these lands with very incorrect ideas of what they will >meet
when they get to Zion. And these ideas have not been confined to the members of
the Church alone, but have been participated in by the Priesthood.

Now, as we are upon the eve of another emigration, we would warn all upon these
points, that they may be spared disappointment. Let every Saint remember that
Zion is composed of such as he — composed of men and women who have gone as he
is now going, taking all their failings and weaknesses with them, only throwing them "
aside as they obtained the mastery over them. And let every one be assured that
though there are blessings to be obtained in Zion, and peace and happiness to be
enjoyed to an extent not known anywhere else, still they are only to be enjoyed by
those who cultivate the right spirit. They who go, if they wish to enjoy themselves
there, must carry about in their own bosoms the principles of happiness. If they do
not, they would be no more happy there than here. Even were they in heaven, and
failed to observe this, we have no idea that they would be happy. As for measuring
the people of Zion, it would be folly to attempt to do so by any standard of perfection
that men may form in their own minds. Every principle connected with the Gospel,
and especially the gathering, should convince the Saints that at the best they can
have but a limited idea of what true perfection is, and consequently are very incapable
of forming a correct judgment of a people like the people of Zion.

The proper course for the Saints is to go to Zion and take their brethren and sisters
there as they find them, and be determined that they will like them and be suited with
them ; and if they are not quite so perfect as they wish they were, instead of finding
fault with them, or spending time to watch their imperfections, turn their attention
and their efforts to the perfecting of themselves, so that when another emigration
arrives the new-comers will find them so faultless that no disappointment will follow
contact with them. By taking this course, tbey will find Zion to be all that they
reasonably expect her to be, and her blessings will be properly appreciated by them.
Saints who are governed by the Spirit of the Lord, whose expectations are euui^y
based upon the foundation it a fiords, and who have any experience in or under*
standing of their own weaknesses, are never disappointed in going to Zion. But
those who shut their eyes to their own weaknesses and faults, and expeot far more
from others than they would think right for others to expect from them, were their
positions reversed, are always disappointed. And in nothing are they more fre-
quently disappointed than in their inflated expectations of attention and kindness
they are going to receive when they reach the body of the Church. We have known
Saints who, in going to the V alley, or in making their calculations upon going, have
enumerated the names of Elders who had been on missions from Zion in their midst,
whom tbey bad entertained at their houses, and calculated confidently on meeting a
^warm reception from them and being invited to live with them until they could do
better. In some instances, people who indulge in such expectations have them grati-
fied ; but more frequently they are disappointed. The same season that witnesses
vlheir advent to the Valley may witness the advent of a score of persons, or more,
whose claims upon the kindness of the Elders of whom they are expecting so much-
are as well-founded as their own. No matter how well-disposed the Elders might
be to receive and entertain the Saints kindly, even if they had plenty of means and
were in a position to do so, they would find it impracticable. But very frequently
the Elders have not the means of doing so ; and it is not right for those who have
been kind to them when they have been labouring in the ministry, in obedience to
>the command of the Lord, to expect them to reciprocate their kindness by throwing .
open their houses to them. Every Eider that has laboured abroad has made hun-

Digitized by Google

234

EDITORIAL.

dreds of acquaintances and has partaken of the hospitality of hundreds of families.
A moment's reflection should convince every one that it would be impossible for him
to entertain them all, yet each one has as strong a claim upon him as the other.

We would advise the Saints not to go to Zion with any expectations of this kind.
Let all go putting their trust in the Lord ; a and if they are welcomed gladly and
treated kindly when they get to Zion — as it is quite likely they will be — it will be
all right ; but if there should be no notice taken of them particularly — if nobody should
come out to meet them, or run with open arms to welcome them, they will not be
disappointed, but will be prepared, with the blessing of the Lord, to carve out their
own way, and take an active part in building up the work of God on the earth.

When those who have been engaged in the ministry in the world emigrate to Zion,
they have many things to contend with, which, if they are not prepared to meet, are
very trying to their faith. Particularly is this the case with those who have been
engaged in the ministry a number of years. They have been noticed and made
much of by the people wherever they have been as their teachers in the things of
God ; and we have known some instances of men having become so habituated to
this, that they seemed to have almost forgotten that the deference they received was
due to the Priesthood and the position they held, and not to themselves and their
natural abilities. If there is one class of men who have need to seek more than any
other for humility and meekness in gathering to Zion, it is the Elders who have been
in the ministry. If they do not hare humility, their self-importance will surely be
shocked, and they will be in danger of becoming offended and apostatizing. Elders
cannot be noticed, when they get to Zion, as many of them may think their abilities,
position, and past labours may deserve. Circumstances forbid that this should be the
case. There they meet with thousands of men who are their peers in every essential
of greatness— men whose talents are as varied, whose positions are as elevated, and
whose labours have been as serviceable as their own : they cannot, therefore, expect
to be singled out from so large a body of their equals, and be made the recipients of
special notice and honour. They should not expect it ; for if they did, they would
he very likely to meet with disappointment. We believe the Elders generally under*
stand this : we are now merely reminding them of it. Let every Elder who goes
there bear in mind that saying of Jesus so often repeated — " He that humbleth
himself shall be exalted," and go there with the determination to sink any feeling of
consequence he may have gained by acting in prominent positions among the Saints
abroad, and go to with his might at any honourable labour his hand may find to do*
By so doing be will prove to the Lord and his brethren that he is no holiday man,
but one that has the welfare of the work at heart, and is willing to serve and pro-
mote it in any capacity.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — We learn by letter from Elder
Duncan, dated Coventry, March 9th, that in several Branches in the Warwickshire
Conference there are prospects of increase in numbers. In the Coventry Branch
alone nine or ten new members have been lately baptized, and there are a few more
candidates waiting for an opportunity to go into the water.

Elder Stuart, in a letter dated Edinburgh, March 23rd, says — " The work in
Scotland had flagged somewhat in interest ; but the spirit of the Gospel is
being again restored, with all its accompanying blessings. Brothers Lyman and
Rich will remain here until after the Edinburgh Conference, which will be held on
the 24th, in this city ; after which they will leave for Newcastle, England. During

THOUGHTS" SUGGESTED BY THR PASSING TEAR.

235

their stay here, they hare been preaching, teaching, exhorting, and counselling
at the firesides of the poor as far as their time would permit. Manj a sorrowing-
heart they have made glad, and many a wayward soul has had cause to rejoice."

Elder Tobin, m a letter from Glasgow, dated March 27th, informs us that he has
• laboured chiefly amongst the Saints in the vale of Leven, and those in the
immediate vicinity of Dumbarton Castle, and can truly say that their hearts beat
warmly for the cause of Zion and the furtherance of the interests of God's kingdom."
He adds— M I have had good meetings, and have listened with much interest and.
happiness, hearing the Saints bear their testimonies to the cause of truth. There
are some half-dozen persons who will come forward for baptism in this Branch
shortly."

THOUGHTS SUGGESTED B7 THE PASSING YEAR.

BT EMILY B. TBA6DALB.

Another year has passed away like a
wave upon the ocean of time, never to be
recalled.

How many of us, upon taking a retro-
spective view, feel satisfied that no oppor-
tunity has escaped us of benefitting either
ourselves or others ? How much of the
past would we not gladly recall, if such
were permitted, — the cold words, the angry
glance that has chilled the heart of some
loved one, grappling like ourselves with
the stern realities of life. Far easier to
bear are the trials of life than an un-
deserved rebuke from a friend.

Do we cherish harsh feelings against
some brother or sister who has slandered
us falsely ? Let us forgive them. Had
they been better informed, such might not
have been the case. Let us reflect for a
moment what we have stated. Do we
know assuredly that we serve the God of
Israel ? If so, shall anything cause us to
relinquish our hope of salvation, with all
that could render the future happy ? Do
we remember a period in our history
when we felt and testified that we could cling
to our religion, though called upon to
sacrifice our lives for it ? But who does
not realize that it is easier to dream of the
future than to work at the present ? Did
we ever sit and watch the dearest object
of our love laid in the cold embrace of
death, and feel that the future would be
a blank if we were eternally separated
from it? But the comforting influence of
the Spirit of God inspired us with hope
in looking forward to the resurrection,
then to be re* united when sin and death

shall be destroyed. With these comfort*
ing assurances, the fact would suggest it-
self to our minds that we can never possess
these blessings unless we are faithful to
the end. There is but one spot upon the
earth where we can secure anything aften
death. We may admire the theory, but
has it sufficient weight to nerve the soul
to action ? Are we willing to leave our
all and travel over the desert, enduring
with meekness all the trials which such an
undertaking must inevitably entail upon us 1
And when we reach our destination, we
are not going (as we may onoe have
imagined,) to a place where sin and sorrow
are unknown. No. Our experience to day
teaches us that as long as we are in this
state of probation we shall have to con-
tend with good and evil. If we have calmly
considered the matter, and feel that we
are going to Zion to endeavour to be
right and secure our salvation, all will do
well. The voice of the apostate raised
against her will have no weight with us.
If we know that our religion is true — that
we embraced it from a pure love of truth,
desiring to serve God, we also know that
its progress must be onward and upward,
until, like the "stone cut out of the
mountain," it "fills the whole earth/' The
past is beyond recall ; the present only is
ours. So let us live to-day that the morrow
may bring no painful reflections, and at
the close of our probation we shall realize
a sweet serenity of mind, knowing that our
time has not been misspent. Jesus said,
" Be ye perfect, even as your Father in
heaven is perfect." If we live to-day up

Digitized by

236

CORRESPONDENCE.

to the light with which God has blessed
us, we are perfect to-day. If we gain
more intelligence to-morrow, and live up
to that, we shall be perfect to-morrow,
and so on throughout eternity, increasing
in glory as we progress. If progression
were denied us, any state, no matter how
exalted, would become irksome ; for the
greater amount of knowledge we possess,
the greater is the desire for more. As
long as we are in this state of probation,
we shall realize that it is all we can do to live
from day to day; for as we advance in the
scale of intelligence, so the powers of
darkness increase; but the greater the
vanquished foe, the greater victory has the

conqueror achieved. And though the com-
bat may be strong, it will not be of \omg
duration: a few short years will roll away,
and land us beyond the shores of mor-
tality, to reap the reward of what we are
sowing now; and knowing that we serve a
just God, we also know that we shall
realize in our reward far more than the
most fertile imagination can portray.

Let our best energies be concentrated
in this, to live our religion, that we may
be counted worthy to assist in establishing
the kingdom of God, and regain our
Father's presence. O happy thought!
filling us with joy unspeakable, to dwell
for ever with the pure in heart!

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Sunderland, April 1, 1861.
Elder Cannon.

Dear Brother George, — We improve
the present moment to drop you a note to
let you know of our movements since our
last to you from Glasgow, since which
time we have visited Dundee, where we
had an interesting meeting with the
warm-hearted Saints of that Conference,
over whom Elder Baxter was appointed
to preside, in place of Elder Turner,
who is released to go home to Zion.

For statistics we must refer you to the
reports of the Conference. The pros-
pects are good here for an increase of the
work, and we think brother Baxter is the
right man in the right place. While
here, we visited the Arbroath Branch,
some eighteen miles from Dundee, and
met with the Saints, who were com-
forted by our brief visit. While here, we
visited the ruins of the Abbey of St.
Thomas, founded by William the First,
who was surnamed the Lion, in the
year 1187, as we were informed by
our very loquacious guide, who also
pointed out to us the tomb of King
William, with various other antique relics.
The ruins, on the whole, are a sad com-
mentary on the operations of benighted
and ill- directed humanity.

From Arbroath we returned to Dundee,
and from thence we passed by railway,
through the county of Fife, (where there
are some Saints, and a prospect for more,)

to Edinburgh. We were accompanied
by District President Stuart, aud were
joined on the way by President Harrison,
who had been labouring for a few days

in Fife.

On Sunday, 24th of March, we held
Conference in Edinburgh, and had a very
good meeting with the Saints. We think
the prospects very good for the work here,
under a prudent and proper management,
which we think will prevail throughout
Scotland under President Stuart and
those who are associated with him in that
Distriot.

We left Scotland on Thursday, the 281ft,
for Newcastle- on- Tyne. We held Con.
ference on the 3 1st of March in Sunder-
land, had a pleasant meeting with the
Saints, taught the Priesthood in the
morning, and had two meetings in the
after-part of the day. The reports of the
Conferences were of a cheering character,
and promise well for the future. Bap-
tisms are regular and constant. Thus the
work is moving silently, yet steadflj
onward.

Our health, which' has not been good
during the winter, is not good now, bat
somewhat better than for some weeks
past.

With kind regards to yourself and
family, and associates in the Office, we
subscribe ourselves your brethren in the
Gospel,

Amasa M. hnixs,
Charltss 0. Rica.
P.S. We expect to hold a Conference

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

in Leeds next Sunday, and shall then come
home for a few days.

Brandon, Suffolk, March 24, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I received a letter from
Blder W. Woodruff a few days ago, in
-which he states that all is peace and pros-
perity at home. He wishes me to give
his kind love to Elders Lyman and Rich,
and yourself.

lam happy to say that our labours in
this Conference are crowned with some
success. We are baptizing some, and
many are " thinking a good deal about it."
The Saints generally feel well, and are
trying to do the best they can, and are
continually praying that the way may be
opened for them to gather home.

There has been quite a revival among
all the sectarian churches in this part of
the country. They have made a great
stir in some places, and I think that as
soon as they have sufficiently made mani-
fest their folly, the honest in heart will
begin to inquire after the truth, and
■iany wiU be led to embrace the Gospel.

I remain your brother in the Gospel,
R. Bbntlby.

237"

useful, for I desire to be a blessing to the
people, and to administer to their wants in
the spirit and feelings of a father.

May God bless you, brother George,
your household, and all the brethren.
Remember me in your prayers.

Tour brother in the Gospel covenant,
William S. Baxter.

SCOTLAND.

Dmndee, March 27, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I have been quite busy
getting the matters of the Conference
transferred tb me. I find it quite a new
line of husiness fbr me; but I trust that,
with a little care, I shall be able, to
accomplish it with satisfaction to all
parties.

The 1 Saints in this Conference, as a
general thing, are feeling first-rate, and are
desirous of doing all in their power to live
their religion, although poor in this World's
goods./

I Intend leaving here to-morroW to
organise a Branch and visit some of the
scattered members. They are very much
scattered in this Conference, which will
keep' me travelling pretty amuch all the
time, to do them justice. ,

So far I have rejoiced in iny labours, and
still anticipate that a good work will be
done in this quarter through the faithful-
nesS atid^diK^ence of the Priesthood; And
I pray God that he will enable me to be

WALES.

Llanelly, March 20, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Last Sunday I at-
tended a Conference at the Blaina, Mon-
mouthshire. It was snowing and raining
in the forenoon, and the wind blowing at
a tremendous rate; the streams also
running down the ravines and through
the streets from those high mountains
with such a fury as though we were
going to have a second deluge. A few
of the brethren attended, and those that
came across those' lofty mountains from
Tredegar and Penycae. They were as
wet as fish. They had a splendid
sprinkling baptism 1 I thought it ad-
visable to postpone the forenoon meeting
until two o'clock, that the Saints might
have time to dry their clothes before
some good fires, which are plentiful enough
in this coal country. Between twelve
and one the clouds began to disappear ;
| and at two, p.m., we met in a beautiful
hall that the Saints have rented therfe for
ten shillings per month. I believe that it
will contain from three to four hundred
persons comfortably. The Presidents of
the Branches were called upon to represent
the condition of their Branches, which
was quite favourable, with a very few
exceptions, and those exceptions they
believe will soon reform. I hope so too.

The authorities of the Church in
Zion and the European Mission were
presented before the Saints, to see if they
were willing to sustain them in their
several callings, &c. The votes were
unanimous. I released brother Edward
Burgoyne from the presidency of this
Cbnference. He intends emigrating this
season to Zion. I have appointed Elder
Richard Palmer, one of the Missionaries
from Utah, to succeed him in the Pre-
sidency of that Conference. I wish you
would be pleased to send to me Elder
Palmer's letter of appointment, which I
shall forward * to Vim as soon as I

Digitized by

Google

238

CORRMPONDINCI.

receive it. The brethren hare been out
of work in some parts of that Con-
ference— namely, Victoriaand the Penycae
works, which have been very slow. It has
been very hard on some of the brethren to
sustain themselves and families daring
the past winter ; consequently, there has
been bat little done of late in the way of
Tithing; but I oould see that there was
a desire in the brethren to do all in their
power to assist to build up the kingdom
of God upon the earth.

Elder Benjamin P. Evans, my pre-
decessor in the Presidency of the Welsh
Mission, is travelling through the Con-
ferences, preaching his farewell sermons
to the Saints, and bearing his testimony
to the truth of " Mormonism." He has
rendered me all the assistance he could,
making me acquainted with the condition
of the Mission, &c.

Elder George G. Bywater is doing
well in the Cardiff Conference. I visited
him a week ago last Sunday in Cardiff.
"We held three meetings there through
the day, and the Spirit of God rested
upon us mightily. I will also remark
that brother Bywater has men of first-
class quality to assist him.

Elder Edward Edwards, from Utah,
is labouring in the Eastern Glamorgan
Conference, under the direction of Elder
John Davies, the President of that Con-
ference. Elder Robert Evans, from
Utah, is labouring in the North Wales
Conferences, under the direction of the
Presidents.

The good influence left in Wales by
Presidents Lyman and Rich is highly
appreciated by us all. All say that they
are fathers and not tyrants to the people.
I hope, by the grace of God, that I shall
be able to carry out their instructions to
me, as well as y out's through the Editorial
in the Star; and I will try to instil them
into those committed to my care. I feel
as though I have plenty of work to
keep me from rusting.

I remain, with kind love to you and all
in the Office, your brother in the bonds of
truth,

Thomas E. Jebemt.

AMERICA.

Council Bluffs City, Iowa, March 7, 1861.
Brother Cannon.
Dear Sir,— I have intended writing to

you for some time, and now devote ft
time for that purpose. I came here in the
evening of the day I left you in Omaha,
which was the 12th November. Brother
Erastus and Captain Spencer came the
next evening following. Brother Snow
preached in the Oddfellow's Hall, in this ,
city, the Sunday evening following. I
commenced to preach in the same hall,
and have followed it up regularly three
times a week almost constantly ever since.
This place becoming too small, we
rented Babbit's Hall, the largest and
best in the place. The interest mani-
fested by a portion of the citiiens of
this city to hear " Mormonism," or the
principles of eternal truth, has not abated
from the first, but is on the increase
daily. I knew but four members when I
came here : we now have a Branch of
105, and peace and union and a desire to
gather home to Zion dwell in all their
bosoms. Brother Wareham and myself
have hunted up and down in this country,
until, by the blessings of our Heavenly
Father, we have resurrected to conscious
life over 200 of the old Saints, and baptised
some 25 or 30 new ones, and shall continue
here until the work is done. I have calls
as far as 100 miles at least of this city,
and, in fact, in a good share of Western
Iowa. Those that have been to all
appearance asleep for years are waking;
up to a lively existence and conscious fife,
renewing their covenants, and enjoying a
good degree of the Holy Spirit, with a

Seat desire to go to the Valley of the
ountains this year. All will go that
can get away.

As to the difficulties that exist between
the North and South, I suppose you lean,
more from the papers than I could com-
municate by letter. I suppose the Go-
vernment is somewhat like the old man
who had a rather disagreeable wife.
Some of his neighbours were telling him
how to manage and control her. "Yes,**
said the old man, "everybody knows
exactly how to govern and control
scolding, cross, crabbed, quarrelsome*
jealous wires, except those who have
them ; and they don't know what to do
with them." I think that is about the)
way with Uncle Sam.

The CoumU Blufi BugU contain*
the minutes of our Conference held here
in February.

From what I can hear, there will be
large emigration this year from the

Digitized by VjOOglC

SUMMARY.

239

States to Utah, and a very large one to
Pike's Peak.

Give my respects to all the brethren
that crossed the Plains with us last fall,
and tell them that I whisper about as loud
here sometimes as I did to the mules on
the Plains, but to none with such long
ears. I would like to hear from all of

them. Give mv respects to brothers
Lyman and Rich. I would like to re-
ceive a line from any of you. And may
you be blessed with wisdom and strength
according to your day, is the prayer of
your friend and fellow-labourer m the
Gospel of Christ,

W. A. Mabtuidalb.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gevbbal. — A despatch from Vienna states that on the 31st ulfc. riotous assemblies took
plaoe in Agram. The windows of the Police-office were smashed by the people, and the
Imperial eagle was torn down from the Government buildings. The Danish GoTernment
is making preparations to be ready for all eventualities. The battalions are doubled
and a battery of rifled cannon is ready, and three others, after the French model, will be
ready in the course of next month. The Turkish province of Bosnia is menaced with
most alarming anarchy. The Austrian Government have forbidden exportation of arms
into Bosnia, and has dispatched a body of troops to the frontiers. The insurgents in the
Herzegovine have been repulsed by the Turkish troops. Risings have taken plaoe in
several parts of Portugal, under the pretext of the taxes being unequally distributed.
Movements of the Austrian army in Istria continue. Urgent orders have been given for
the construction of additional works to the fortifications of Pola. The concessions granted
by the Emperor to the Poles have not satisfied the people. The wearing of mourning is*
more general, and a much greater number of people appear in national oostume. The
concentration of the military continues. Unarmed citizens, as constables, patrol the
streets. Twenty-four delegates are again acting as a provincial municipality.

Ambbican, — The Louisiana Convention has rejected the Southern Constitution. North
Carolina has declared by a majority of 1,200 against holding a Convention. A collision
was anticipated in Texas between the Unionists and Secessionists. The barracks of
Brazas, Santiago, had surrendered to Texas. It is stated that the Customs authorities
of Havre had notified that ships of the seceded States would be received on the same
footing as those of the Federal flag. The interior of Mexico had not yet been pacified.
Pears are still entertained at Panama that the isthmus may be invaded, and the question
-of declaring that province independent, under a foreign protectorate, was again occupying
public attention.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING,

How to Make a piece of Candle Born all Night. — When, as in case of sickness »
a dull light is wished, or when matches are mislaid, put finely-powdered salt on a candle
•till it reaches the black part of the wick. In this way a mild and steady light may be
kept through the night by a small piece of candle.

Obigih or Heraldry. — Heraldry took its rise in the time of the Crusades, and arose
from the necessity of establishing some means of personal recognition at a time when
knights and warriors were clad in armour and wore visors on their faces, Hence " coats
of arms," symbols on the helmets, devices on the shields, &c, from which originated the
system of heraldry.

Bills.— Bills are of various kinds in both law aLd commerce. » A Bill of Exchange is
a note ordering the payment of a sum of money, at a specified time and place, to a person
therein appointed, in consideration of value received by the drawer at another. A Bill
of Entry is a document containing an account of goods entered at a custom-house, either
inward or outward: entry inward must be made within fourteen days after the arrival
of the ship. A BUI of Health is a sertificate signed by the proper authorities, stating, at

Digitized by

240

POETRY. — ADDRESSES,

the time the ship therein named tailed fr6m a certain port, what was the general state- of
health in the couutrj, A Bill of Lading is a deed signed by the master* of ,a ship;,
acknowledging the receipt of a merchant** goods, and undertaking to deliver the same At-
the place to which they may be consigned. It is always made ont in triplicate, one copr
of which is transmitted by the first post to the consignee; the second sent {o "fatal in tht
ship itself;* ami the third retained by the shipper, to legalize the instrument should any
dispute atfistf. » A Bill of Parcels U a written account, given by seller to buyer, of the
quantities sorts, and prices of goods bought. A Bill of Sale is a deed or-bond given or
a person delivering property as a security for a consideration received, '*s an advance of
money, &o.:';jk.7iiH ^f. Sfght is drawn up whea an importer* ignorant of tfre exact quan-
tities or qualities of goods assigned to him, is unable to make a correct entry at the
custom-house ; in which case, he is allowed to make an entry by bill of sight — that is,
aooovdu»g to lite best description that he oaa give. By this, the collector or oomptroiler*
k empowered to grant warrants for the landing of the goods; the importer being bound
-jgignake, within three da\s afterwards, a perfect entry, and either to pay down the duties,
tfrVlo warebouss) the merchandise. A BiU of Store is a license granted by the custom-
house officers for carrying, free of duty, such stores as may be necessary for a voyage.
A Bill of. Sufferance is a license granted to English merchants to trade from one British
port to another, without paying customs* dues. ' f

POETRY.

SONS OF MICHAEL.

A CUOJH78 FOB TUB LATTSft TIMKS.

/'And the HD^'.ca to:' .luys did sit, whose garment was white as snow, and the hair of his head tike the
pure wool ; his throne was like the Aery name, and his wfiocls as burning fire. A fiery stream Uanod-aad'
cane forth from before him, ihoniwnds thousands ministered unto biro, and tea thousand tidies Ut\l
thoasand stood before him." iDasisj. vil. 9, 10.) . ( "

Sihm of Michael, he .ipin-oitL-Lf- !
R7*r ; tbv 1 ; . tor mil Father irreet:
^^^Vi ve. tltousmul?, Ion* before him;

1J««1 the Pu.t. *lgn,

.nd main I

» iotts Of Mikiiael. Vu^ais.chKritt
v KuJls its lm*ni>jg w he*)« a)aug ' - ■

Raise aloft your voicrs million

jh a torrent powvfr of song :J

Hid! our head with music soft ! f
: Raise aw«et inr indict ajqft ', • ,

Scotland. E. L. T. Haaaisov.

Mother of our generations ! ^
Glorious by great Michael's side* ~\r
Take thy children's adoration ;
Endless with thy Lord preside : *
ho, to greet thee now advance

Thousands in the joyous dame ! i .
Raise a chorna, sons of Michael;
Like old Ocean's roarings swell ; , r
Till the mighty acclamation
Through rebounding space doth tell

That the Ancient One dbth reign

In his paradise agam I

AnosLKSSKa.— William Fuller, East Road, Bridport, Dorset.

William Gibson, 7, Prospect Terrace, Kairriew, Cheltenham.

jt-/ — — . . _ .

COHTENTS.

Tnie Liberty.... _ 225 sidents Lyman and Rich, and Elder BenUey.

An Anectiouate Good Bye 228 —Scotland: Letter from Elder Baxter.—

3!!??, ftr J ^ ph ? ml1 1 ",w — ~ 2 *> W * u? « : ***** »om Elder Jeretny4A r Aaieriea:

^ntorial .-H-jiu for the Emigrating Saiuts, Letter from Zldtr M«tm«Ue ...^.^.^.l. I

apd which may also Proftt those whoKemaln.— . Summary of News and Passing ETenU.Mj£3.L*"S

Abstract of News from the Conferences 2M2 Things Worth Remembering ?. ;3..vU

Thoughts Suggested by the Passhig Year «J6 PoetTj.— Sous of Michael „ 2<SbsC

t#r«aar*vdei\ee.— England : Letters from Pre- Addressee ...... -»...*

• " • 1 LIVERPOOL: i

Ri>iTKr> akp vuBLieup.n bt oeoro* 9. cahnon, 42, tsuwaTOif.

. - k LONDON: ' I -

fttBSAJ.K AT THK I. A TTI K 1>.V V SAINT.-* BOOK n KPOT, ."!», FLORR.VCK STRKET, CROS.*j STRfKT, ISMXGTOft,
\ AND ALL BOO KELLERS. ' *

rat»TBP ay jamb« and nephew, M, south jou.v street, uvkrpool,

, Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR

*An*iee tkaU eeme l« Me OMb fi/IAe «orM ; for the Lord hath a eontroverty with the natione:
U will plead with mil fitthi he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord.-—
Jiumiah.

ho. is, vol. nm,

Saturday, April 20, 1881.

Price One Penny.

APOSTACT.

Bt ELD SB S. L. SLOAN.

' When God in his infinite merer revealed
anew the M everlasting Gospel " in these
last days, and sent forth his servants to
proclaim its 'principles to the children of
men, he clothed them with a holy Priest-
hood, endowed them with the power of the
Spirit of Truth, and blessed them and
those wijo believed on their testimony
"with the gifts and graces which ever ac-
company the declaration and reception of
the Gospel, when preached and practised,
In parity, by men living on the earth.
' They were ridiculed and persecuted, ma-
ligned and scoffed at, and their testimony
was treated with contempt by the mass
of professed religionists: stffl w tbey went
' forth and preached everywhere, the
: £ord working with them, and confirming
: the word with signs following.* The
heulmrs and tongues, the prophecies and
' revelations, which accompanied theirmiuis-
' trattons, were looked upon with scorn and
derision by the Christian world ; and this
rejection of the manifestations of the
'Spirit was justly used as a powerful
' argument against the existing sectaries of
•the day, and as an evidence that they
were in a condition of apostacy before
God from "the Atith once delivered to
the Saints. 1 *

The Christian world sing of Jesus,
fatvokehis holy name, preach concerning
fate, and point many a fervid and elo-

quent peroration with the sacrifice con-
summated on Calvary; but they deny the
direct interposition by revelation of the
Great Creator with his children on earth,
dispute the verity of the Spirit's mani-
festations, and repudiate the claims of the
holy Priesthood upon them, while ad-
mitting that these blessings and claims
were associated with the Gospel and
enjoyed by the Saints eighteen centuries
ago. Hence they have been declared by
God through his servants to be in a con-
dition of apostacy.

Deep as they wire and are sunk in
ignorance concerning the things of salva-
tion, they could not well deny the actual
association of these blessings with the
Gospel in former Apostolic times, while
they professed a belief in the Bible; for
the fact is so plainly stated that no amount
of spiritualizing is sufficient to explain it
away ; and they can only look back at the
past, as it is chttnicssd on the sacred
pages, with a feeling of veneration and
awe, and canonise the men who enjoyed
blessings which thev do not lay claim to.

Now, it is worthy of note that the
most bitter opposers of the Latter-day
Elders were and are the meet zealous ad-
vocates to be found outside the Latter-
day Church of the olaims of a crucified
and risen Redeemer upon fallen and suiV
faring humanity.

** Digitized by

Google

242

APOSTACT.

When Julian apostatized from the
Christian faith in which he had heen edu-
cated, be marked his apostacy by such
prominent measures against the early
Christians, and the immunities which
they had enjoyed under Constantino the
(treat, tbat he fairly earned the epithet of
* J ulian the Apostate ; " but the apostacy
of the Christian world is more deathly in
iia consequences than any apostacy
similar to that of the Roman Emperor
could be, inasmuch as it professes a con-
tinued attachment to the faith departed
from, and blinds the ignorant and credu-
lous to their true position.

Id many a thousand churches and
chapels throughout the land, the name of
Jesus is sounded in accents of solemn
veneration by professed believers in his
mission, who loudly proclaim their un-
dying love for him, yet reject his holy
commandments, repudiate the giftsof the
Spirit, and make merchandize of the souls
of men. This is virtual apostacy of the
direst kind — holding to the letter of the
name, yet denying ine Spirit winch giveth
life; onnsinglo a vain from and « spirit-
less word, but taming away from the
power of life, and denying the very
essence of salvation to the children of

No people can be without the Spirit of
4otod and its actual and visible manifests-
.Neons* who profess <the faith of Christrend
.«ot< be ii** condition of apostacy; not *
l6dd-to»gued epe&afo*t*ey whteh denies
.the mission of tc-man alter hxvmg
received it, but a turnii^ eway from the
repirit of ^ ooninia«djients--a virtual
separation Irtna <therrf»w5wfel inner life
enjoyed by^vory maa^and woman who
• •enjoys the spirit and power of the Gospel
of salvation.

Though she world is me, condition of
apostacy, it has not *#o*tasised. That,
condition 4 t received from «4rnw gene'
station^ and they from one - before: them J
imt with tb* Saint*,*** people, it isdif<
(teens, lime ere4ne eeftdittc* of apos-
teey> we nana epestatioed ewselyes, and
a*ertee{K>f4snle for tW art ^ the;
'^ondMon m^hkhrthateot places us rand
if she worldeeu be in a condition of ^af«^
tecy* free* *s*HOhristian faith while pro-
fesM***** Seeing a beh ef in tho nuswod
of Christ* ivia. perfectly possible that iav.
.divinVsalry w» eould be in a condition of
apostacy while admittwte the divine
claims of the Latter-dny Work,

There is no surer evidence of a Branch
being in a healthy condition than the
manifestations of the Spirit in its assem-
blies, and* peace, love, and goodwill reign-
ing in the hearts of its members ; and
where these are wanting— where the spirit
of discord and strife have power to act,
and are permitted to exist in the bosoms
of those who call themselves Saints of
God — where the power is wanting to call
down the blessings of heaven upon and
among the children of the kingdom —
where there is a departure from toe wsys
of the H ving spirit and power of the Gospel,
there, there is an apostacy commensurate
with such departure, even though every
soul testified as loudly concerning the
mission of Joseph as the world of Chris-
tians do concerning Christ. The testi-
mony in each case would be alike, so far
as the testifiers in the Church had de-
parted from the teachings of the Spirit of
Truth ; for neither testimony would be
dictated by revelation and certain know-
ledge, but would be, in one case, the
creature of tradition, and in the other,
the last lingering remnant of a former
knowledge.

Wo are so apt to look upon those only
as apostates who have come out in open
rebellion against the Priesthood, denving
their power and claims, and who nave
partaken of the bitter spirit of enmity and
evil towards their former associates and
the cause they had once befievxngly advo-
cated, that we often overlook the seeds of
apostacy in our midst and in ourselves.

No maimer apufaJtized sn a day — no
man ever turned away from the train
because of a principle being revealed, or
because of the unrighteous sot of another*
These may have been the powerful emetic
whwh brought the hidden fikh to view;
but be assured the spirit of apostacy bad
been growing in all aueh, end only re-
quired the touch of truth or the operation
ofr peculiar wotfme tances to bring it into
visible life. Carelessness has been i

by negligence, negligence been
i by culpability, and in many

stances secret iniquity has- ensued, tmthe
Spirit of God, grieved and driven away,
has given place to a spirit of doubting
and denying, which the Lord in his wise
proviaence nas aeoreed shall not be
hidden iip, but shall become manifest,
thesrthey who seek to pursue a course of
sssrj^eenpwOT and win not repent, may
be purged from tfee midst <tf fie people*

Digitized by

Google

THTOKY SUPERSEDE© BY PRACTfOAL KN0WLW8S.

that his kingdom may be built up in
righteousness upon the etrtlh.

One prolific source of ap03tacj is re-
bellion against legitimate authority. No
man can entertain a spirit of contempt
lor or rebellion against the holy Priesthood,
-without baring within him the seeds of
apostacv. It was this spirit which hurled
Satan from his eminence in the courts of
glory, and it will bring every one to
destruction who shelters and fosters it.
And no man can work secret sin among
the covenant people of God without turning
away from the spirit of life and going down
the way of transgressors which Teadeth
.unto death. Such individuals, though
4her may confess Jesus with their lips,
and testify that Joseph was a Prophet
with their mouths, are virtually apostate,
haying turned away from the command-
ments of heaven, and denied by their
actions the revelations of God. Their
-tins will as surely find them out, and their
lolly be made manifest to their own con-
fusion, as that they insult truth, honour,
and virtue by their unholy conduct.

The world continues in its apostate
condition, refusing the offers of a remedy
which would free it from the death-
stricken ignorance which it isnow weltering
in; and if we desire to progress in the scale
O? intelligence and being, we must take a
'Jtold stand, in the might of righteousness,
against everything which savours of sin
and death.

We must watch carefully the incipient

mhieh is contrary to the whisperings of
4be Spirit of God.

No man who lives prayerfully before

the Lord, studying carefully the rcveh.
tions which be has deigned to be s t ow
upon man, striving in all humilfa to
magnify every duty devolving upon him*
and seeking continually the guidtnga and
comfortings of the Holy Spirit, will
apostatize while pursuing such a course.

Trials of bis faith he may have—**
who will not ? Many times his eyes may
be vexed and his heart be made to mourn
at the wickedness of others ; but, under
every circumstance, and at every time, ha
will possess within himself a conquering
power, giving stability to bis integrity,
which will carry him victorious over every
barrier to his progress, peace, and hap-
piness.

A Branch composed of such individual*
will be rich in faith and knowledge,
powerful in unity of feeling and con-
centration of action, holy in purity «f
thought and life, mighty to call down the
blessings of God in their midst, aad
successful in adding to their number*
honest souls who seek salvation. HeaU
fags, revelations, prophecies, and tongue*
w&l cheer their assemblies; and an fo-
il aence for good, ifresStible to aB who
love that which is pure and truthful, will
surround and be with them conturaatty.

Brethren and sisters, let us < manwao
ourselves carefuHy, and guard vigilantly
against every spirit widen would U
to transgression and apostacy, "for
are ever closely mlHed. Let us sedtf
shun the plague-spot of sin as we ^
the horrid touch of the infectious leper,
and cultivate continually the spirit of otnr
religion in all meekness and husajHty? for
accompanying it are peace, love, union,
joy, purity, and holiness, with present and
eternal happiness and exaltation.

fttgOHT (HJP11SKDB!> BY PRACTICAL CH0WLEBGB.

BT 'MUDWtL JOMT *» MUtT.

ttrtsh haelt

hid from the under-
i*iano*aaoe,

have beea f#uaM. in.4)yaothetjtoal
a*f hadMMm&wrim, hat have
fta nothing bat doubt and opufo-
We eV> not wash to deppaoiala the
fatuity of rafcauttl judg-

ement, bat i**lh6r blame those who 4o aet
gt*»Xbee»*kes the trouble to thiak aad
reflectances; for <by ao doing now i4ea*
spring up in the miai aad new thought*
artfmeraiea; and . thus, we are ^enabled
taoempmtj* thoughts aad wiftinge^
others with our own. The spirit of
quiry is af4ttatdarhhm 0% and wede i

' Digitized by

Google

THEORY SUPERSEDED BT PRACTICAL KNOWLEDGE.

rest satisfied by merely reading the
writings of other men, but seek to fully
comprehend their ideas.

Though the pursuit of knowledge may
be attended with difficulties, it nevertheless
amply repays those who labour for it,
and more especially when there is a
definite object kept in view. We should
make a start, and our knowledge will in-
crease in proportion to the extent of our
desires to become acquainted with the
truth. By so doing we shall eventually
comprehend all truth that can be known
er conceived.

Why is it that a morbid indifference is
ao much indulged in by the generality of
mankind concerning matters of so much
imnortance? They seem to notice very
little beyond what they are immediately
associated with; and instead of having an
earnest desire to receive truths of greater
moment, and to have a knowledge of fixed
principles implanted in the mind, they too
often seek for those things which are of a
nature calculated to hinder rather than
foster a desire for the attainment of know-
ledge. It is not ignorance altogether, or
a want of capacity to understand, that
men have to cope with ; but, either not
having the will or not taking the proper
mode of applying their thoughts, or
classifying their ideas in considering a»
subject, they experience alack of interest.
Uor is it because the truth is so often
held in disrepute that they make up their
minds to reject it, and consequently do
not estimate its value so as to put it into
practice.

Many feel convinced that they are
wronr, who will not give themselves the
trouble to get set right. They also feel
a reluctance to receive principles of truth
that are offered, fearing that they miff ht be
mistaken, in consequence of so much un-
certainty existing in the world; and
seeing the various systems and theories
extant, they know not how to decide, or
which way to steer, because of the im-
propriety of others who stumble in the
way. Thus, when theories and systems
are founded on mete hypothesis, error
must inevitably result. Tni* shows the
great necessity for a true and correct
system of theology, so as to admit of a
mode of testing understandingly whatever
4 is presented for consideration. " By this
■ shall ye know" not by this shall ye sup-
' jH>as, is the rule. "\ "

Practical knowledge is improved by

experience, and theories are lost when
surpassed by the excellence of superior
intelligence. As in the solar system we
know that our earth's rotatory motion
round the sun causes the changes of day
and night, so it is in relation to the
existence of a true system of theology :
we know our position, and can ascertain
our relationship to God, heaven, and
earth, and the plan He has designed to
save and exalt us through our observance
of the laws and ordinances of the Gospel,
which are now revealed to mankind in
their proper order, and which can be
easily understood. The truth sf heaven
has been made known to the children of
men; but, in consequence of so much
theorizing, it has become mixed up with
egregious errors and mysticisms, and has
thus oeen perverted by the professedly-
learned votaries of religious views who
propound to their followers their so-called
systems of theology.

Show me the genuine admirers of truth*
Are they not to be found among the
simple, good, honest sons of toil, who
have to deal with matter-of-fact realities*
and who in every-day life see the pro-
priety of being truthful to themselves asv
well as to others ? Real excellence is not
always to be found among those who
court the society of the learned, who are
counted the great ones of the earth.
No. Bat I hail with joy a man who is-
willing to investigate the truths of the
Gospel, and to be convinced by reason and
common sense. When a man has the
love of truth, he will gain the mastery
over prejudice and traditions that he has
imbibed, and will cast aside the clog that
has hindered him from comprehending the
plain and simple truths of heaven, which
bring with them a practical knowledge
that cannot be overturned bv the in-
genuity of the most learned divines who
pride themselves on being so wise that
they cannot stoop to be taught.

But one great beauty of the Gospel is
that it meets our every condition ; and in
whatever circumstance of life we may be
placed, if we embrace it with a pure
motive, it will form our habits of life so
as to be subservient to the will of God,
and our characters will be stamped with
the impress of our Divine Master,, and
our moral taste or spiritual sensitiveness
will become so refined that whatever is
right and truthful can be easily dis-
tinguished by us, so that it becomes to n*

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

245-

as a code of laws by which we can decide
upon the correctness of any system, and
we become subject to a proper mode of
government in spiritual as well as tem-
poral things — in natural as well as ad-
ministrative ruling power; and this forms
the ground of our obedience to every
requirement, which is the source and

moulding principle of truth and great*
ness.

It is that which gives rise to the as*
surance which the Saints possess, which
is the Spirit of truth they have received
by compliance to the requirements of the
Gospel, even a living faith and a practical
knowledge.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 231.)

[April, 1844.]

At a quarter past three, p.ra , the Pre-
sident having arrived, the choir sang a
hymn. Elder Amasa Lyman offered
prayer.

President Joseph Smith delivered the
following discourse before about 20,000
Saints, being the funeral sermon of
Elder King Follett. Reported by Wil-
lard Richards, Wilford Woodruff, Thomas
Bollock, and William Clayton: —

" Beloved Saints, I will call the attention
of this congregation while I address you
on the subject of the dead. The decease of
our beloved brother, Elder King Follett,
who was crushed in a well by the falling of
» tub of rook, has more immediately led me
to that subject. I have been requested to
■peak by hit friends and relatives ; but in-
4wmnch as there are a great many in this
oongregation who live in this city as well as
olse where, who have lost friends, I feel
disposed to speak on the subject in general,
and offer you my ideas so far as I have
ability, and so far as I shall be inspired by
the Holy Spirit to dwell on this subject.

I want your prayers and faith that I may
have the instruction of Almighty God and
the gift of the Holy Ghost, so that I may
set forth things that are true and which
can be easily comprehended by yon, and that
the testimony may carry conviction to your
heart! and minds of the truth of what I
■hall say. Pray that the Lord may strengthen
my lungs, stay the winds, and let the prayers
of the Saints to heaven appear, that they
may enter into the ears of the Lord of
Sabaoth, for the effectual prayers of the
righteous avail much. There is strength
here, and I verily believe that your prayers
will be heard.

Before I enter fully into the investigation
of the subject which is lying before me, I

wish to pave the way and bring up ther
subject from the beginning, that you may
understand it. I will make a few prelimin-
aries, in order that you may understand the
subjeot when I come to it. I do not calcu-
late or intend to please your ears with
superfluity of words or oratory, or with
much learning ; but I calculate to edify you
with the simple truths from heaven.

In the first phtoe, I wish to go back to the
beginning — to the morn of creation. There* is
the starting-point for us to look to, in order
to understand and be fully acquainted with
the mind, purposes, and decrees of tho
Great Eloheim, who sits in yonder heavena
as he did at the creation of this world. It
is necessary for us to have an understanding
of God himself in the beginning. If we
start right, it is easy to go right all the
time ; but if we start wrong, we may go
wrong, and it be a . hard matter to get
right.

There are but a very few beings in the
world who understand rightly the character
of God. The great majority of mankind
do not comprehend anything, either that
which is past, or that which is to come, aa
it respects their relationship to God. They
do no; know, neither do they understand the
nature of that relationship; and conse-
quently, they know but little above the
brute beast, or' more than to eat, drink, and
sleep. This is all man knows about God or
his existence, unless it is given by the in-
spiration of the Almighty.

If a man learns nothing more than to est^
drink,and sleep, and does not comprehend any
of the designs of God, the beast comprehends
the same thing. It eats, drinks, sleeps, and
knows nothing more about God; yet it
knows as much as we, unless we are able to
comprehend by the inspiration of Almighty
God. If men do not comprehend the cha-
racter of God, they do not comprehend them-
selves. I want to go back to the beginnings

Digitized by

Google

HISTORT OF JOSEPH SMITH*

aadsoliftyonr minds into amort lofty iphere
and a more exalted understanding than
what the human mind generally aspire* to.

I want to ask this congregation, every
van, woman, and child, to answer the ques-
tion in their own heart, what kind of a
being God is? Ask yourselves; turn your
thoughts into your hearts, and say if any of
wro have seen, heard, or communed with
am, This is a question that may occupy your
attention for a long time. I again repeat
tibe question — What kind of a being is God ?
Does any man or woman know? Hare any
of you leen )iim, heard him, or communed
with him ? Here is the question that will,
peradTenture, from this time henceforth,
occupy your attention. The Scriptures in-
form us that « This is life eternal, that they
Slight know thee, the only true God, and
Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent/

If any man does not know God, and in -
. quires what kind of a being he is, — if he will
anarch diligently his own heart — if the de-
clarations of Jesus and the Apoitles be
true, he will realize that he has not eternal
life; for there can be eternal life on no other
principle.

Ifjr first object is to find out the cha-
racter of the only wise and true God, and
what kind of a being he is ; and if I am so
fortunate as to be the man to comprehend
God, and explain or convey the principles to
your hearts, so that the Spirit seals them
upon yon, then let every man and woman
henceforth sit in silence, put their hands on
their mouths, and never lift their hands or
or voices, or say anything against the man cf
God or the servants of God again. But if I
fail to do it, it becomes my duty to renounce
all further pretensions to revelations and in-
spirations, or to be a Prophet ; and I should
be like the rest of the world— a false
teacher, be hailed as a friend, and no man
would seek my life. But if all religious
teachers were honest enough to renounce
their pretensions to godliness when their
Ignorance of the knowledge of God is made
manifest, they will all be as badly off as I
am, at any rate; and you might just as as
wall take the lives of other false teachers
aa that of mine, if I am false. If any man
ta authorised to take away my life because
ae thinks and says I am a false teacher,
then, upon the same principle, we should be
justified in taking away the life of every
false teacher ; and where would be the end
of blood? and who wonld not be the
aafferer?

But meddle not with any man for hia re.
Hgion ; and all government! onght to permit
avery man to enjoy huvreligion unmolested.
Wo man is authorized to take away life in
consequence of difference of religion, which
~*U laws and governments onght to tolerate

and protect, right or wrong. Every mam
has a natural and, in our country, a con-
stitutional right to be a false prophet aa
well as a true prophet. If I show, verily^
that I have the truth of Ged, and show that,
ninety-nine out of every hundred professing
religious ministers are false teachers, having-
no authority, while they pretend to hold taa-
keys of God's kingdom on earth* and was to-
kill them because they are false teachers, it
would deluge the whole world with blood.

I will prove that the world is wrong, by
showing what God is. I am going to in-
quire after God ; for I want yon all to know
him, and to be familiar with him ; and if I
can bring you to a knowledge of him, alt
persecutions againit me onght to cease*
You will then know that I am hii servant;,
for I ipeak as one having authority.

I will go back to the beginning before the -
world was, to show what kind of a being;
God is. What sort of a being was God int
the beginning ? Open your ears and hear*,
all ye ends of the earth ; for I am going to>
prove it to you by the Bible, and to tell you
the designs of God in relation to the human*
race, and why he interferes with the afFaira
of man.

God himself was once as we are now, and
is an exalted Man, and sits enthroned ha
yonder heavens ! That is the great seeraU.
If the vail was rent to-day, and the Great
God who holds this world in its orbit, and
who upholds all worlds and all things by hia
power, was to make himself visible, — I say*,
if you were to see him to-day, you would
see him like a man in form — like jonrselvea
in all the person, image, and very form as a
man; for Adam was created in the very
fashion, image, and likeness of God, and re-
ceived instruction from, and walked, talked* .
and conversed with him, as one man talka
and communes with another.

In order to understand the subject of tha
dead, for the consolation of those who
mourn for the loss of their friends, it is ne-
cessary we should understand the character
and being of God, and how he came to be
so ; for I am going to tell you how God
came to be God. We have imagined and
supposed that God was God from all
eternity. I will refute that idea, and will
take away and do away the vail, so that yon.
may see.

These are incomprehensible ideas to some;,
but they are simple. It is the first prin-
ciple of the Gospel to know for a certainty
the character of God, and to know that wa
may converse with him as one man conversea
with another, and that he was onoe a man
like us ; yea, that God himself, the Father
of us all, dwelt on an earth, the same at
Jesus Christ himself did ; and I will show it
from the Bible. 1 wish I was in a suitahleV

Digitized by

HISTOBT OF JOSBPH 8MITH.

247

place to tell it,, and that I had the trump of
an, archangel, so that I could tell the story
in such, a manner that persecution . would
cease for ever. What did Jesus say?
(Mark it, Elder Klgdon.) The Scriptures ;
inform us that Jesus said, 'As the Father
hath power in himself, even so hath the Son
power* — to do what? Why, what the Father
did. The answer is obvious — in a manner to
lay down his body and take it up again.
Jesus, what are you going to do ? To lay
down my life as my Father did, and take it
up again. Do you believe it ? If you do
not believe it, you do not believe the Bible.
The Scriptures say it, and I defy all the
learning and wisdom and all the combined
powers of earth and hell together to re-
fnte it.

Here, then, is eternal life— to know the
only wise and true God ; and you have got
to learn bow to be Gods yourselves, and to
be kings and priests to God, the same as all
Gods have done before you, — namely, by
going from one small degree to another,
and from a small capacity to a great one;
from grace to grace, from exaltation to ex-
altation, until you attain to the resurrection
of the dead, and are able to dwell in ever-
lasting burnings, and to sit in glory, as do
those who sit enthroned in everlasting
power. And I want you to know that God,
in the last days, while certain individuals
are proclaiming his name, is not trifling i
with you or me.

These are the first principles of consola-
tion. How consoling to the mourners when
they are called to part with a husband,
wife, father, mother, child, or dear relative,
to know that, although the earthly taber-
nacle is laid down and dissolved, they shall
rise again, to dwell in everlasting burnings
in immortal glory, not to sorrow, suffer, or
die any more ; but they shall be heirs of God
and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ. What
is it ? To inherit the same power, the same
glory, and the same exaltation, until you
arrive at the station of a God and ascend
the throne of eternal power, the same as
those who have gone before. What did
Jesus do ? Why, I do the things I saw my
father do when worlds came rolling into
existence. My Father worked oat his king-
dom with fear and trembling, and I mast dp
the same; and when I get my kingdom, 1
shall present it to my Father, so that he
may obtain kingdom upon kingdom, and it
will exalt him in glory. He will then take
a higher exaltation, and I will take bis place,
and thereby become exalted myself. So
that Jesus treads in the tracks of his' Father,
and inherits what God did before; and God
is thus glorified and exalted in the salvation
and exaltation of all his children. It is plain
beyond disputation, and you thus learn some

of the first principles of the Gospel, about
which so much hath been said.

When you climb up a ladder, yon must
begin at the bottom, and ascend step by
step, until you arrive at the top ; and so it is
with the principles of the Gospel — you
must begin with the first, and go On until
you learn all the principles of exaltation.
But it will be a great while after you have
passed through the vail before yon will have
learned them. It is not all to be compre-
hended in this world : it will be a great
work to learn our salvation and exaltation,
even beyond the grave. I suppose I am
not allowed to go into an investigation of
anything that is not contained in the Bible.
If I did, I think there are so many over- wise
men here, that they would cry w treason," und
put me to death. So I wiH go to the old
Bible and turn commentator to-day.

I shall comment on the very first Hebrew
word in the Bible ; I will make a comment
on the very first sentence of the history of
creation in the Bible — Berosheit. I want to
analyze the word. Baith — in, by, through,
and everything else. Roth — the bead. Sheit —
grammatical termination. When the inspired
man wrote it, he did not put the baith there.
An old Jew without any authority added the
word: he thought it too bad to begin to
talk about the head ! It read first, ' The
head one of the Gods brought forth the
Gods.' That is the true meaning of the
words. Baurau signifies to bring forth.
If you do not believe it, you do not believe
the learned man of God. Learned men can
learn you no more than what I have told
you. Thus the head God brought forth the
Gods in the grand council.

I will transpose and simplify it in the
English language. Ob, ye lawyers, ye doc-
tors, and ye priests, who have persecuted
me, I want to let you know that the Holy
Ghost knows something as well as you do.
The head God called together ihe Gods and
sat in grand' council to bring forth the
world. The grand counsellors sat at t!ia
head in yonder heavens and contemplated
the creation of the worlds which were
created at that time. When I say doctors
and lawyers, I mean the doctors and lawyers
of the Scriptures. I have done so hitherto
without explanation, to let the lawyers flatter
and everybody laugh at them. Some learned
doctor might take a notion to say the Scrip-
tures say thus and so; and we must believe
the Scriptures; they are not to be altered.
But I am going to show you an error in
them.

I have an old edition of the New Testa-
ment in the Latin, Hebrew, German, and
Greek languages. I have been reading the
German, and find it to be the most correct
translation, and to correspond nearest to the

Digitized by

248

HISTORY Ol* J08BFH SMITH*

revelations which God has given to me for
the last fourteen years. It tells about
Jaehoboy, the son of Zebedee. It means
Jacob. Id the English New Testament it is
translated James. Now, if Jacob had the
keys, you might talk about James through
all eternity, and never get the keys. In the
21st of the fourth chapter of Matthew, my
old German edition gives the word Jacob
instead of James.

The doctors (I mean doctors of law, not
of physic,) say, 'If you preach anything not
according to the Bible, we will cry treason.'
How can we escape the damnation of bell,
except God be with us and reveal to us?
Men bind us with chains. The Latin says
Jachabod, which means Jacob; the Hebrew
says Jacob, the Greek says Jacob, and the
German says Jacob ; here we have the testi-
mony of four against one. I thank God I
have got this old book; but I thank him
more for the gift of the Holy Ghost. 1 have
got the oldest book in the world; but I
have got the oldest book in my heart, ever,
the gift of the Holy Ghost. I have all the
four Testaments. Come here, ye learned men,
and read, if you can. I should not have in-
troduced this testimony, were it not to back
up the word rosh — the head, the Father of
the Gods. I should not hare brought it up,
only to show that-1 am right.

In the beginning, the head of the Gods
called a council of the Gods; and they came
together and concocted a plan to create the
world and people it. When we begin to
learn in this way, we begin to learn the only
true God, and what kind of a being we have
got to worship. Having a knowledge of 1
God, we begin to know how to approach
him, and how to ask so as to receire an
answer. '

When we understand the character of
God, and know how to come to him, he
begins to unfold the heavens to us, and to
tell us all about it. When wo are ready to
come to him, he is ready to come to ns,

Now, I ask all who hear me, why the
learned men who are preaching salvation,
say that God created the heavens and the
earth out of nothing ? The reason is, that
they are unlearned in the things of God,
and have not the gift of the Holy Ghost :
they account it blasphemy in any one to
contradict their idea. If you tell them that
God made the world out of something, they
will call you a fool. But I am learned, and
know more than all the world put together.
The Holy Ghost does anyhow, and he is
within me, and comprehends more than all
the world; and I will associate myself with
him.

Jfou ask the learned doctors why they say

the world was made out of nothing; and
they will answer, 'Don't the Bible say he
created the world V And they infer, from the
word create, that it must have been made out
of nothing. Now, the word create came
from the word bauratt, which does not mean
to create out of nothing; it means to or-
ganize, the same as a man would organise
materials and build a ship. Hence we infer
that God had materials to organize the
world out of chaos — chaotic matter, which
is element, and in which dwells all the glorj.
Element had an existence from the time Hi
had. The pure principles of element are
principles which can never be destroyed:
they may be organised and re-organized,
but not destroyed. They had no beginning,
and can have no end.

I have another subject to dwell upon,
which is calculated to exalt man ; but it ia
impossible for me to say much on this sub-
ject. I shall therefore just touch upon it,
for time will not permit me to say all. It is
associated with the subject of the resurrec-
tion of the dead,— namely, the soul — the mind
of man — the immortal spirit. Where did it
come from ? All learned men and doctors
of divinity say that God created it in the
beginning ; bat it is not so : the very idem
lessons man in my estimation. I do not be-
lieve the doctrine; I koow better. Hear it,
all ye ends of the world ; for God has told
me so ; and if you don't believe me, it will
not make the truth without effect. I will
make a man appear a fool before I get
throngb, if he does not believe it. I ana
going to tell of things more noble.

We say that God himself js a self-existent
being. Who told you so? It is correct
enough; but how did it get into your heads?
Who told you that man did not exist in like
manner npon the same principles? Man
does exist upon the same principles. God
made a tabernacle and put a spirit into it,
and it became a liring soul. [Refers to the
old Bible.] How doeB it read in the He-
brew ? It does not say in the Hebrew that
God oreated the spirit of man. It says ' God
made man out of the earth and put into him
Adam's spirit, and so became a living
body.'

The mind or the intelligence which man
possesses is coequal with God himself. I
know that my testimony is true; hence,
when I talk to these mourners, what have
they lost ? Their relatives and friends are
only separated from their bodies for a short
season: their spirits which existed with
God have left the tabernacle of clay only
for a little moment, as it were; and they now
exist in a place where they converse together
the same as we do on the earth.

(7»*e continued.)

Digitized by

Google

EDITORIAL.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

SATURDAY, APRIL 20, 1861.

The Power for Good which can be Exercised bt the Officers. — The
responsibility of proclaiming the principles of truth is one which does not rest alone
upon those who occupy prominent positions in the Branches and Conferences, bat is
binding upon every one who is called to hold the holy Priesthood ; and to the end that
they might be efficient ministers of the Gospel of salvation, it becomes a solemn duty
on the part of the Elders to qualify themselves for the work before them, by
obtaining an acquaintance with the principles of life, cultivating continually the gift
of the Holy Spirit, and seeking to be clothed upon with the power of their Priesthood.
The present emigration will carry with it many who have laboured long in these
lands; yet a single glance at the statistics of the Mission in our possession
reveals the fact that there is no lack of Elders remaining behind. Every Conference
has its corps of Elders — every Branch its working officers, the whole forming an
army of ministry sufficient to evangelize the world, and burn out wickedness and
ignorance before the fire of its presence, if those composing it would only live pure in
heart and close enough to their God. We bave a strong desire to see the entire
body of Elders fully alive to their responsibilities, and quickened to a sense of their
duties; for the Saints will progress in faith and- good works, feeling lively and full of
the Spirit in proportion to the faith and zeal manifested by the Elders, while the
wellbeing and condition of the Mission will be commensurate with their diligence
and faithfulness.

In many instances, men have held the Priesthood for years, and have sunk down
into an apathetic carelessness and an indifferent feeling as to whether they were
useful or useless. Such men, while in such a condition, cannot realize the weighty
responsibilities which rest upon them as Elders in Israel, and require to be wakened
up that they may keep pace with the rapid growth of the kingdom of God.

The work before us«s weighty and increasing in magnitude, the field wide and
ripening for the harvest, with room enough in it for every labourer who desires to
put in his sickle and reap. Cities, towns, villages, and hamlets lie scattered throughout
the land, in which are thousands of honest souls perishing for want of the bread of
fife, of which we claim to be the dispensers ; and it is an imperative duty binding
upon every Elder, no matter what his position may be in the Church, to consecrate
his energies and abilities to the furtherance of the cause of truth, that the honest in
heart may be brought to a knowledge of the Gospel of salvation.

The past teaches us a rich lesson' to profit by, in showing us what can be
accomplished by men acting under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. A few Elders,
fully alive to the importance of their mission, and clothed upon with the Priesthood
and the power of the Spirit, landed on these shores not many years ago, and
commenced declaring the great truth that God had again spoken from the heavens
and commissioned his servants to call on all men everywhere to repent. Their way
was opened up before them, and the power of Heaven attended their ministrations,
ttU Elders can now be counted by hundreds where then they could not be counted bj

Digitized by Google

250 EDITORIAL.

tens. Then men would step out from their workshops, and, cleaning themselves
from the marks of their toil, would travel to distant villages and seek out houses to-
preach in, carrying with them the Scriptures revealed by God for our use; and their
way was opened up before them, that in their plain blunt language they might bear
a faithful testimony to those who came together to listen unto them ; and the Lord
owned and blessed their labours, and poured out richly upon them the Spirit of Truth.
Now, the work of evangelizing is too often committed entirely to those whose whole
time is occupied in the ministry, and who could not, if their desires were the best
that ever animated the breast of man, do one- tenth of the work which lies awaiting the
united labours of the Priesthood in these lands.

It is not to gratify a vain ambition that men are called to receive the holy
Priesthood ; it is not to foster any feeling of false pride that they receive a power
which places them superior to their brethren who are not so blessed, but that they
may be endowed with an authority to do good among the children of men, and
become instrumental in the hands of God of redeeming a world from ignorance and
sin.

If the Elders will arise and purify themselves, putting away all evil, and
seek with all sincerity of soul and singleness of heart to magnify their callings, they,
will speedily realize that the same God who worked mightily in the Elders of by-gone
years, to the ingathering of the honest and the upbuilding of the Saints in these
lands, is still willing to shower down his blessings upon his faithful servants, and will
make them mighty instruments in accomplishing his pur poses, and enable them,
under the direction of those placed to preside over them, to kindle a fire which wilL
warm up every honest soul that is now hungering and thirsting after righteousness*,
shivering in the cold night of ignorance, and groaning under the bondage Jo£
Satan.

Brethren of the Priesthood, the Lord demands of you to magnify your ordination
covenants: he calls upon you to shake yourselves from every snare of sin and
every lethargic feeling, and to go forth trusting on his arm for strength to gather in his.
scattered Israel, and build up his covenant children in righteousness and truth. He
claims of you a faithful stewardship of the power committed to your care, and
measures your faithfulness by the, condition of the Saints among whom you labour
and the progress of the work under your charge. » Strive, then, with all diligence and
purity to have the Holy Spirit burning within your bosoms, and the influence of
heaven continually surrounding you.

Every Elder who is labouring in singleness of heart and purity of mind before
God for the advancement of his purposes, will carry with him an influence which all
who love good, whether Saints or of the world, will delight to partake of and enjoy.
Suoh men will do good among the Saints, and will make converts to the truth, even
though they may not have much of the power of language; for the Spirit of
righteousness will accompany their testimony, and seal it upon the hearts of the
honest.

While some men are given over to apathy, and are slumbering in a deadening
lethargy, there are others who are naturally spirited and energetic, and who, like a
high-mettled steed at the touch of the spur, start up to renewed exertions at every
hint thrown out to awaken those who are careless and indifferent There are some
such men who would actually work themselves to death in labouring to carry out
general counsel more applicable to others than themselves. It is true that suoh men are
rare; yet they are to be met with ; and there is just as much wisdom in gently
restraining their impetuous zeal as in stirring up the slothful to life and energy; for

Digitized by

ADVICB TO THB SAINTS*

251

"by husbanding their powers their energies would not he prematurely wasted, and
their days of usefulness would be extended.

When comparing the number of Elders with the other officers throughout the
Conferences, we feel to say that the injunction of one of old is as applicable now aa
it was when first delivered — « Lay hands suddenly upon no man.' 9

Many men have been called to hold the Eldership in these lands who, under existing
urmsmwt in or n, would have served the cause of Qod and their own salvation more
had they been permitted to hold a lesser office, and in some instances if they had
lemained for a longer period without any office at all. Men holding presiding
positions cannot be too careful in bestowing Priesthood upon their brethren, for it
is a power which works mightily for salvation or condemnation, according as it is
wisely used or unwisely abused. No man can receive the Priesthood and persist in,
tampering with evil and neglecting known duties, without becoming subject to the
poipsr of Satan ; and all such will be shorn of the spirit of their office, and become-
withered and dry, fitted and prepared for the burning. Hence the necessity for the
Bders living pure and holy before God, putting away from them every filthy and
oosUammattog practice, studying continually the interests of that kingdom of which
they are officers, and preparing themselves to carry with them an influence for good,,
wfaioh will enable tbem to accomplish successfully the labours assigned them, anbV
make them mighty for the conquering of error and sin.

ADVICE TO THE SAINTS, ESPECIALLY TO THOSE ABOUT
TO EMIGRATE.

Brethren and sisters, beware of the
spirit of speculation and covetousness.
To some this advice may appear honest,
and perhaps unnecessary ; but my ob-
servation of the course pursued by many
of the Saints for the last seventeen years
has convinced me that following such
a spirit has often led to the disappoint-
ment, and ultimately to the apostacy of
many souls.

The fact that many things can be
bought here in England and in the
States, that would sell in Utah for
three, four, or even ten times their first cost,
has led many of the Saints, on emigrating,
to spend almost their last shilling ; so
mnon so, that I have known many, when
crossing the Plains, not to have money
enough to pay for feroyinjr their waggons
across the rivers, and havehad to borrow of
others more wise than themselves, in
order to be able to meet any emergency
on the way. And when they get to the
Talley, the first thing they want they
have to begin selling in order to buy ;
and being compelled to buy, they have to
sail smack lower than they calculated on,

which makes them feel dissatisfied; and
so it goes on from day to day, until before
they go to a meeting to hear the word of
God they become quite suspicious and
jealous of everybody. Then, instead of

foing to the house of God with the
md, meek, and confiding spirit of the
Gospel, ready to hear and feast upon the
words of life as they flow from the
Prophet and Apostles inspired of God,
and sit there under the droppings of the
sanctuary, to be taught in the ways of the-
Lord, and then walk in his paths, they
feel distrustful, discontented, and un-
happy; their minds become dark, they
neglect their prayers, then lose the good
Spirit, and finally apostatize.

No person should emigrate to Zion
with the view of improving his own cir-
cumstances alone, but to help to build up
the kingdom of God, as well as to build up-
himself. No person can fail in building
up himself, if he builds up the kingdom;
but a person trying to build up himself^
and then the kingdom, is liable to fail in
both. The Saviour said, "Seek ye first
the kingdom of God and his righteousness,

Digitized by

232

FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS

TO BIT YOUNG 8ISTBR8.

all other things shall he added unto
you."

In the early settling of Utah, it might
have been wise not to take money, but to
take such things as were then needed to
supply the wants of the people and
establish the place. Bat in the present
state of things there, I say, If yon have
any money left, after baying the outfit
you absolutely must have to take you
across the Plains, take it with you.
"But," says one, "Ought I not with
money try to make money, and so build
up the kingdom and myself?" I say,
* Yes ;" and you can do both, if you take
your gold to Utah, more so than if you
spend it on the way, and get dissatisfied
in making your exchanges, and finally
apostatize about it.

Brethren and sisters, take yonr money
with you, and enter the Valley feeling free
and untrammelled, and be ready to hear
the word of God, and do it. Then you will
be like the wise man who built his house
on a rock. I am advising you how not to
spendyour money. If you want to know how
to spend it to the best advantage, I cannot
tell you : but if you don't know, ask the*
best financier in the world, and not
trust to the judgment of men who have
but little if any experience, and have
no right to counsel. Such might tell
you to expend your money in the pur-
chase of articles which may be very good
and useful, but which may be plentiful
in Utah now. If you want advice, ask it

of the men who have the right to-
coun8el, and who have been appointed
for that purpose in Zion.

Such men you can find in Great Salt-
Lake City — men of experience and wisdom
in financiering and counselling, who have
been under the tuition of the wisest and
best manager in the world — President
Young. There are hundreds of ways in
which a smart, intelligent, energetae
business- man can pursue in Utah that
would do good to others and enrich him-
self. Therefore, I say to the man with
his thousands, his hundreds, or otherwise,
Take your gold to Zion with you, and yon
will feel free in your spirit, and be exempt
from many cares which you would other-
wise have on the way ; and being free*
you will enjoy your religion and the
Spirit of God, and will carry Zion with
you ; and then you will find more to add
to it when you get there. But if yon
go otherwise, you will gather around yen
your own likeness, whether it be of right-
eousness unto God and his servants, or of
sin unto Satan and his agents.

Beloved Saints, May God bless yon on
your journey to Zion ! May his angel go
before you, and guard you in every direc-
tion from evil. But do not offend him,
or drive Him away; and then I shall see
you, when I come home, feeling happy,
and you will be thankful that you are out
of Babylon ; which is the prayer'of

Your brother in Christ,

George Halltoay.

FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS TO MY YOUNG SISTERS.

BT HAJfWAH SELINA PEGO.

My Dear Sisters, — Being about to bid
a final adieu to this land, probably till
the resurrection morn, when the earth
will be purified and rendered a fit habita-
tion for the Saints, my heart is filled, with
joy unspeakable that my deliverance is
near. For several years I have hoped
for, rather than anticipated, this happy
period, — thinking, like many of you, per-
haps, that it would never arrive. But, in
obedience to the counsels of the Priest-
hood, I waited patiently, and hoped even
against hope, doing at the same time all
I could to effect my departure and hasten

my emigration, knowing that " the Lord
helps those who help themselves," and
seeing at last this adage happily verified
in my case and in many similar in-
stances.

Oh, my sisters, if we could with the
eye of faith penetrate the future, we should
highly appreciate our position as daughters
of our Heavenly Father; for to be adopted
into his family and reign in his celestial
kingdom is infinitely superior to all the
grandeur of the Gentile world. To have
our names enrolled in this great and
glorious Latter-day Work, and likewise*.

Digitized by

FRIENDLY SUGGESTIONS

•

to have the continual approbation of our
Father in heaven, and of those pure and
holy spirits that accompany the faithful,
should surely excite us to determine that
nothing shall deter us from striving to
obtain such a position, especially as by
continuing faithful we shall be made
queens in the heavenly mansions of our
Divine Father.

Let us, then, my beloved sisters, sted-
faatly turn our minds to these important
subjects, and duly contemplate our future
destiny, instead of being careless or in-
different to this glorious work ; for it is
indeed of God, and emanates from the
Most High. Let us ever be on the alert
to qualify ourselves for so honourable a
position in this kingdom, and diligently
strive to be among the foremost of the
faithful. Let us continually cultivate our
minds, and strenuously do all we can to
prepare and fit us for mingling with the
•Saints upon Mount Zion. J<et us not,
because it may appear to us humiliating
or degrading, when we are in fault, de-
cline to confess that fault and ask forgive-
ness of those whom we have offended,
and proudly say, "I will not solicit
pardon ; my spirit is too independent ; I
new will go and intreat forgiveness,
though my President may direct me.
Can such deportment be right ? No, my
dear sisters, it is decidedly wrong; and
instead of raising us in the estimation of
the truly wise and good, it will, if per-
. stated in, place an inseparable barrier
between us and them.

On the other hand, how pleasing it
must be to our Heavenly Father and to
those holy spirits that are round about
the faithful, encompassing them as with
a shield, to see a young sister nobly
striving to overcome the powers of dark-
ness, and contending earnestly for the
faith once delivered to the Saints, and
graciously restored in these latter days, in
order to obtain the glorious prize of a
heavenly crown ! Such happy influences
will be indeed felt and happily enjoyed by
the pure in heart ; and even the Gentile
world will, as the sacred poet describes
the fallen angels,

M toe, and adaatre, and hate the change."

By thus cultivating a humble obedient
spirit, and not doing anything to injure
another sister, or in any way wound her
. feelings, but by doing all jn our power to

TO MY YOUNG SISTERS. 253

cheer and comfort her, we shall feel well,
knowing that we have done right. Our
kindness will be reciprocated, and, like
Mercy, be " twice blessed." We shall enjoy
an increase of that good Spirit which
will eventually fit us, as Latter-day Saints,
for the presence of our Father and our
God, to dwell at an humble distance with
our martyred Prophet and the Saints
" not lost, but gone before."

Let us, then, always yield obedience to
the counsels of those whom God has
placed upon earth to guide and instruct
us. Our hearts ought ever to rejoice
when we hear them testifying, from their
. own personal knowledge and experience,
that "Mormonism," so called, is God's
work. Their words should sink deep
into every honest heart and upright
mind, and should zealously animate us,
my dear sisters, to strive for celestial

glory. Indeed, we ought to deem ourselves
ighly favoured to participate in this
Latter-day Work; for, as one of our
" Mormon" poets says, in his " Harp of
Zion"—

",Yef , soon that bleated day will come, the brightest

and the best,
When each fond mother*! Inftnt child will rise and

call her blest j
And round the peaceful home will group their loved

ones, parted long.
To tell how joyous they have been, 'rapt in seraphic

•ong.*»

Happily, the time is not far distant
when, if we continue faithful, we shall
receive our reward. But if we do not
rightly consider these important subjects,
and zealously strive to effect our deliver-
ance, what will be our position hereafter
when we would fain extricate ourselves
from Babylon, but find our efforts too late
when wars and destruction come upon the
earth ! Let us now determine that there
shall be a great and decided difference
between us and worldlings ; for " behold,
now is the accepted time" for our ad-
vancement in this kingdom. Let us,
therefore, imitate the wise virgins, and
have our lamps well-trimmed to be ready
for the Bridegroom.

In bidding you a friendly fareweU, my
dear sisters, allow me to express my
ardent hope that many of you who are
now in oppression will soon be gathered
home to Zion, and there receive the in-
struction and enjoy the society of tne
First Presidency and the Twelve.

May God our Eternal Father abundantly

Digitized by

254 COKRWPOKDBlfOB.

bleu yon with his Spirit to guide you [gifted poetess, Mist E. E. Saow, &

continually! May his angels be vour earnestly pray

constant companions; to guard yon from . <Th(lt watt€r . d glgtert may ^ gather'd home

-every ill ! In the language of our highly- To Zloo, wh«re the beat from world* wttl cone**

CORRESPONDENCE.

tBELAlVD.

Belfast, April 2, 1861.
President Gannon.

Dear Brother, — Knowing the interest
you feel in all that concerns our Father's
kingdom in every land, I embrace the
present opportunity to write you a brief
account of the present position and future
prospect of the work of God in the Irish
Mission, over which I preside.'

Seeing that for some three years oast
there has been no public hall occupied by
the Saints, I deemed it wisdom some short
time ago to come out of our hiding-place
and take public halls, for the purpose of
giving the people an opportunity to un-
derstand the principles of the everlasting
Gospel. We therefore took a hall in
Belfast, and the result is that four have
been baptized within the last month, and
some few others are talking about it.
Our meetings are pretty well attended
by strangers, who listen to our dis-
co u rses w it h the greatest attention ; and I
may say of the Saints of this Conference,
that I never saw them attend their meet-
-engsor feel hatter than they do at the
present time. Same few who were dead
-are now resurrected, and' are assisting to
pay the expenses of the Mission, which
otherwise would be very heavy upon the
ile w, considering their extreme poverty.

In a letter from Dublin, dated March

the 18th, I gather that the brethren 1
taken a public hall there, that some few
strangers attend their meetings, that two
bad offered themselves for baptism, and
that the few Saints comprising that Ooaw
ference are feeling well.

So you see, dear President, that osr
present position and future prospect* fas
Ireland are good, considering the difav
culttes the Elders have ever had in spree ding
the principles of truth among this prime
ridden people.

In looking over the Statistical Reports'
from January, 1869, (the time of aty
appointment,) up to the present, I Had

that 80 have been added to the Charon to
baptism, and that 20 have been out est.
Many of these were in bad standing for
years, who had been borne with , in hon e s
of an improvement being enacted; hat
no good fruit appeared. Some ef sheet
have, however, returned into the fold
again, and others talk of following their
example.

Therefore, upon the whole, the Irish
Mission is in a much better c on di tio n
than I have known it; for which I feel
very thankful to the " Giver .of all
good." •

Please tender my kind love to Preei
dents Lyman and Rich, in which say
brethren join.

X am yours faithfully,

Thomas Ci4WL*r.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Gbhxral.— InUUigenoe from Java -states that Immense damage and loss of life have
<been caused by floods. The extent of the destitution and disaster it incredible. In Ana*
"trans heavy storms have been prevalent, and the quantity of rain which has fallen la
^tirceedented. At a Cabinet Council held lately in Copenhagen, it was reserved-that the
•whole mfantry fsree Should be doubled. It is said that the whole army will be placed ea
4t war footing. The Pay* and ifefri* contain the following "The number of riethue
who fsU at Warsaw m mere oonsiderablo than has been stated. Tee late event* at
Warsaw nn^beeMendedwHh consequences fa the prevfaees. The troepa In Warsaw
'•umber 32,QO0msn. A renewal of the distarhenoss is appreheasW. Oathe^ hsaW

Digitized by

VARIBfliS.

265

-popular demonstrations again took place in the streets of Warsaw. A large, bnt nnanied
crowd appeared before the castle. The caralry charged, and the infantry fired on the
fieople, kuHng and woanding upwards of 100. Another law has just been published,
granting to Austrian women the right of Toting at the election of members to the Diet.
The Times correspondent writes :— " The most sanguine begin to think that war is not
only probable, but ineYitable. The news from Warsaw makes still gloomier our specula-
tions as to the future. The irritation of Austria, the provocations of Piedmont, the
unsettled state of the Syrian affair, the difference between the French and English
Governments on the Eastern question, the machinations of the revolutionary party, the
vast preparations on foot everywhere, an justify the darkest foreboding*."

Amsricaf. — The Alabama Convention has ratified the permanent Constitution by n
vote of 87 to 6. The tariff act has been published. It goes into operation on the 1st of
May. The Georgia State Convention has transferred the forts, arsenals, arms, and muni-
tions of war to the Government of the Southern Confederacy. The Texas Convention
lias passed an ordinance, claiming full powers, promising to consummate as speedily as
possible the connection of Texas with the Confederate States, and notifying the State of
this course. The HeraldCt Washington correspondent, under date of March 18th, say**-
m President Davis has received the most ominous communications from his friends respect-
ing the intentions of the Lincoln administration to blockade Southern ports, and make an
attempt to collect the revenue. He is assured that the most strenuous and active mea-
sures are being taken to concentrate the naval forces of the North, and that not only
Charleston, Savannah, New Orleans, and Mobile will be blockaded — Forte Pickens,
Jefferson, and Taylor reinforced, but that, if accessary, vessels will be chartered to keep
up as active a surveillance as possible of all parts of the coast, where there are ports of
-entry, between South Carolina, and the Rio Grande. The indignation that prevails at
Montgomery and elsewhere, in view of this prospective attempt to carry out the threats
in Mr. Lincoln's hmugnral knows no bounds. Cabinet meetings have 'been held, and it
lias been resolved, at the first appearance of hostilities, or just so toon as a single vessel
lias bsen stopped outsid* of any Southern port, to put the whole available force of the
43outh in motion, and to march through the border States upon Washington. The in-
telligence from Montgomery indicates great Impatienoe to know whether the issue is to be
war er 'peace. Large bodies of troops are concentrated, and ready to march at a moment's
<warntag.* He abo says— "The appointment by President Davit of three Commissioners
to visit Bagland and France for the purpose of securing the recognition by those powers
of the independent Government of the Confederate States has somewhat startled the
liincoln sdmmiitnation. It is understood they are about to despatch a secret agent to
Burope, with inetruotsene to inform those governments of the policy to* be pursued by
the new ndnnnistratkm, and thereby forestalling and defeating the Object and purpose of
the mission of the Southern commissioners.*

Tsa Tomato.— Dr. Bennett ascribes to the tomato the following important medical
■proper ties :— lit. That it is one of the most powerful aperients of the liver and other
organs. 2nd. That a chemical extract may be obtained from it, that will supersede the
• ease of oolomettn the cure of disease. ^M. That He has enoeoasfotty treated dlarrtoa
^ frith this artkl* eieue. 4th. Thai need as mn article of diet, U U almost sovereign
"Wot indignation.

lUnr WiTWHor tovWAtb BY LnYis^It has always been th(rt»htthat the rain
crater which falls upon the leaves end stems of vegetables is e^uallv absorbed, and
nourishes the plant. It appears, however, that this« opmien k merely metiaeUve; and
■^rhen te s te d byoarofal ei p erimea t, it proves unfounded, aa is -shown by a small paper
t lately published by M. Dnehartre. For four years this author has endeavoured to
-sBsoovor, by dkeeteaperkneBt, whether or no snob absorption takes place. The planta
•ubmitted to these experiments were in pots, their stems and leaves being exposed to the
vain, whilst the roots were prevented from absorbing any moisture, being hermetically
atoned 1 up In the pot All the planta submitted to this kind of investigation gate-slmilar
awenlta; after remaining exposed to the rain, sometimes for eighteen consecutive hours,
they showed no increase in weight. Indeed, in some cases, they appeared to have
experienced a slight diminution.

TXBJETIES.

256

POETRY. — ADDRKSS.^-MARRIAOE.

Bsmkdy vojl Insect Bites. — When a mosquito, flea, gnat, or other noziont insect
punctures the human skin, it deposits or injects sn acidulous fluid of a poisonous nature*.
This causes an irritation — a sensation of tickling, itching, or of pain. The tickling of
flies we are comparatWelj indifferent about ; but the itch produce^ by a flea, or a gnat, or
other noisome insect, disturbs our serenity, and, like the pain of a wasp or a bee stingy
excites us to "a remedy." The best remedies for the sting of insects are those which
will instantly neutralise this acidulous poison deposited in the skin. These are either
ammonia or borax. The alkaline re- action of borax is scarcely yet sufficiently appreciated:
Howerer, a time will come when its good qualities will be known* and more universally
Tallied than ammonia, or, as it is commonly termed, " hartshorn." Borax is a salt of so
innocent a nature, that it may be kept in every household ; and, as it has many uses, it can b%
recommended as a domestic and harmless chemical. The solution for insect bites is made
thus : — Dissolve one ounce of borax in one pint of water that has been boiled
and allowed to cool. Instead of plain water, distilled rose water, elder, or orange-
flower water is more pleasant. The bites are to be dabbed with the solution so long aa
there is any irritation. For bees* or wasps' stings the borax solution may be made of
twice the above strength.

POETRY.
THE BETTER LAND.

There is a land, a better land,

Far in the distant west,
Where all the faithful Saints will staad,

And find a place of rest.
No more they'll hear th' oppressor's voice —

No more they'll dread the tyrant's rodj
But In that laud of Heaven's choice

They'll worship Israel's God.

There, holy temples, shrines, and towers

Will glitter in the sun ;
And there the holy Priesthood's powers

Will make the people one.
The box and pine, fig. tree and vine

Wtil grace their habitations fair ;
Angels and uien will meet again,

And Joseph Smith be there.

And to that holy, better land

The gathering nations come.
To "be secure from Babylon's doom,

And find a peaceful home.

Jersey.

From every nation, land, and clime,
They'll flow to Zfon's safe retreat.

To bow before Ood's hory shrine.
And worship at his feet.

Then wfclle the nations are distressed.

And judgments waste the lead, * » , ,
The meek and humble will be bleajftoV,

And on Mount Man stand.
Celestial laws they will obey,

And God will is his Saints delight f
He'U shield thenvwith a cloud by day, .

And flaming fire by night.

O Lord, enable me to stand :

Support me by thy grace ; >*'
And In that holy, better land r ;V

Appoint ray ssml a place, /
Where Abraham, With all his friends

Of every dispensation past,
Shall come from earth's remotest ends,

And staad entire at last.

Mabr^Babmss.

Address.— George Burgon, St. Mary's Cottage, Southampton.

Married— In Great Salt Lake City, February 16, 1861, by Bishop H. Moon, Mr. David Bowen end
Hiss Annie Shsckletoa, late of London.

^Apostacy .....

Theory Superseded by Practical Knowledge

1 History of Joseph Smith .....„.... MM ... 246

Editorial.— The Power for Good which can be

Cxercised by the Officers .„ M ... 249

Advice to the Saints, Especially to those about

to Emigrate 2*1

Friendly suggestions to my Young Sisters ...... 262

G0WTBHT8.

~ 241
243

Correspondence.— Ireland : Letter from

Thomas Crawley

Summary of News ai *

Varieties. .

Poetry.— The Better Land
Addresses ......................

Marriage M . MM

Etier

2*4
2*4

—»mm* aso

LIVERPOOL:
EDITED AND PUBLISHED BY OSOttOE Q. C4STOON, 43, 1

LONDON*

FO ft SALS AT THK I.ATTKB -DAY SAlXTfi' BOOK DEPOT, 30, tju

NCE STRSRT,C1

AND ALL- BOO;

ROSS STREW, UUNOTO*,

**IiabbW

rRJKTSD BY JAMBS AXD KB? 01 B W } 51, SOUTH JOBN* STREET, tlVBRPOOL,

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

A noil* shall come even to the end* of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations : he will
pUdd with an flesh ; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith th» Lord."— Jbrkmiah.

Ho. 17, Vol XXTTt. Saturday, April 27, 1861. Price One Penny.

WHAT IS " MORMONISM" ?

BY ELDER HENRY WHITTAIX.

Literally speaking, " Mormonism " is
a by-name of feproach given by the
world to the religion of the people com-
monly designated " Mormons." ■

TVe do notj however, here wish to dwell
upon the ^merely nominal point of the
question. * To avoid circumlocution, and
lor the sake of being understood by all
parties, .the Saints generally accept and
adopt the common appellation as though
it were legitimate.

To the question, then, "What is Mor-
monism P" every "Mormon" reader
will readily reply — " It is the religion
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints: it is the system of Gos-

Eel truth which was revealed from
eaven in ancient times, and is again
revealed or restored to the earth in
these last days, for the spiritual and
temporal salvation and exaltation of
man." Such a reply must unques-
tionably be acknowledged as correct,
it is even so. " Mormonism " is this,
and this is "Mormonism."

But let us now take a somewhat broader
view of the subject. "Mormonism"
comprehends universal truth! — all
truth, of eyery kind and degree, whether
q£ past or of, the present — whether
kiiown by the Saints of former days or
bv those of latter days — by the members
oTthe Church and kingdom of God or

by non-members — by Jews or Gentiles,
Christians or infidels — by one class of
men or by another, whether political or
philosophical, literary or scientific, or by
the common masses of the people of any
nation or community under heaven.

Of truth, it may be said with the
greatest propriety, in tfxe language of
a " Mormon" poet, thate^-

" Tis the brightest prize
To which mortals or Gods can aspire !
Go, search in the depths where it glittering lies,
Or ascend in pursuit to the loftiest skies ;
Tis an aim for the noblest desire."

Truth is one. It is a connected, har-
monious whole — that whole consisting
, of a variety of component parts, each
distinct of itself, yet all combining to
form a one.

It may be compared to music, the
essential characteristic of which lies in
its charming variety, the elementary
parts thereof vibrating harmoniously
together so as to produce the most
deliglmul series of sounds.

It may also be compared to light,
which, when viewed through a prism,
(or seen reflected in a rainbow,) is found
to be composed of seven distinct colours,
all of which, however, blend jnost inti-
mately together, and unitedly constitute
the one white ray of light.

It may likewise be compared to a
large and magnificent building, all the

Digitized by

258

WHAT IS " MORMONISM " ?

portions of which arranged together in
their proper architectural order and
relative proportions, unite in constitut-
ing one great edifice. One observer
might look at the structure from one
particular point of view, a second from
another point, a third from another,
and so on ; yet, however numerous
might be the necessarily-varying de-
scriptions given or drawn by the different
observers from their respective positions
or different points of observation, it
would require them all, in order to
give a full and complete description
of the entire building.

Truth, then, is one — a vast, varied,
universal whole. We conventionally
speak of religious and secular truths —
theological and scientific truths — spi-
ritual and natural truths ; yet all are but
merely nominal distinctions and classi-
fications of the one, universal, divine
system of truth.

The laws of nature are the laws of
God, and are therefore all divme. The
principles of science are principles of
truth, and as such are divine.

For example; those pertaining to the
movements of the heavenly bodies in
the vast regions of space, as far as they
are learned by human observation, are
classed together and included in what is
conventionally termed the science of
astronomy, by a knowledge of which man
can measure suns, moons, stars, and
planets of every magnitude, calculate
their relative distances, describe their
movements, map out their orbits, and
subserve his own interests by the know-
ledge thus possessed. Those pertain-
ing to the various changes that have
taken place and are still taking place on
the globe we inhabit are included in
the science of geology ; by a knowledge-
6f which man can unravel the hidden
secrets of by-gone ages : he can pene-
trate its deep recesses, scale its moun-
tain heights, and there scan the history
of the past : he can read " sermons in
stones, and books in running brooks,"
and enrich his mind with stores of facts
concerning what has transpired upon
and beneath its surface from time to
time since it first rolled forth from the
hand of its Divine Maker. Then there
are the principles of chemistry and natural
philosophy, by which we learn the
various properties of matter and the laws,
of motion and ^natural forces — the ele-

mentary and combined characteristics
of different bodies, their action and re-
action upon each other, and their adapta-
bility and practioal application to the va-
ried wants and necessities of mankind.
Then, again, there are the principles
of physiology, by the study of which
man learns the construction of his own
frame and the laws which govern hii
own being — the laws of health, — how he
may preserve it, and how, by neglecting
them, it becomes destroyed. The science
of mathematics and geometry, too, is one
of immense benefit to man, as by it
he is able to effect measurements and
calculations to an almost endless extent,
in a variety of ways, and by a variety
of means, according to the many require-
ments of business and other duties of
everyday life.

All these principles and laws of
nature and science, together with many
others that might be enumerated, com-
bine to form the one great system of
universal truth, to which we have
alluded.

And does " Mormonism," in its broad
character, comprehend and embrace all
this? Do the Latter-day Saints em-
brace or include in theirprofessed system
of religion all known truth, wherever or
by whomsoever it may be taught or
possessed P

Yes!

Their motto is, in the language of the
poet —

" Sei?e upon truth where'er tis found,
On Christian or on heathen ground ;
The flower*! divine, where'er it grow*."

All truth is God's truth, and is divine.
Every flower of truth, on whatever por-
tion of God's earth it may bloom, and
whatever may be its classified name, is
an exotic of heavenly origin, and forms
a part of the heritage of the " children
of light"— the Saints of God. Every*
true principle revealed from heaven in
any age of the world — every principle
of truth known or acknowledged Vr-
any man or any class of men upon the
face of the globe, is thus comprehended,
embraced, implied, included, or involved
in "Mormonism," which is the religion
of heaven revealed on earth— the light
of heaven reflected from day to day, Uke
the beams of the sun, upon the various
portions of the earth in their season.

" Mormonism'* is. thus a progressive
religion, suited to the nature and re-

Digitized by

CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING TESTIMONY, ETC

269

quirements of man, who is a progressive
being. In its broad, comprehensive
Character, it is fully adequate to the
supply of all the instinctive demands
and aspirations of the soul. It embraces
" the truth, the whole truth, and nothing
but the truth" — all truth that can be
comprehended and received by man,

either in time or in eternity. It is fully
competent to meet all the requisitions
of his ever-soaring mind, in his per*
petual transitions from one degree of
intelligence to another.

Such is " Mormonism," when viewed
in its true character.

CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING THE TESTIMONY OF A LIVING

PROPHET.

BY ELDER THOMAS CRAWLEY.

" Hear me, Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem : Bettere in tbe Lord your God, so shall ye be
established ; believe his prophets, so shall ye prosper.**— Jehoshapiiat.

In various ages of the world God has
spoken to our fathers by the Prophets
(Heb. i. 1); and those to whom they
were sent, (whether it has been to fa-
milies, cities, or the whole world,) each
and all, on the one hand, hare been re-
warded for receiving them and obeying
their word; and, on the other, those
who rejected them, and consequently
the word of the Lord through them,
have been invariably punished. There-
fore we understand from the holy
Scriptures that whenever the Lord sent
any judgments upon the human family,
it has been because they rejected the
testimony of a living Prophet raised
ttp and sent forth by the Almighty,

Seeing, then, that such has l)een the
case, it is a subject of the greatest im-
portance to this generation, and cannot
fee too plainly or powerfully made
known to them ; for there never was a
nation at any time since the world
began in greater danger than the pre-
sent *• Christian nation," so called ; for
their eyes and ears have been closed
against the testimony of a living Pro-
phet, through the teaching of those
who profess to be " ministers of the
Lord Jesus. 1 • Their fathers and their
ministers have been, and are still, very
zealously, though ignorantly, engaged in
declaiming from the pulpit and through
the press, that God will reveal his will
no more to man through Prophets ; con-
sequently tbe whole world, with but
few exceptions, have set themselves
calmly 'down, believing, without the
least shadow of proof, that what such
eminent divines have taught must be
true. And when the Elders of Israel

testify that God has sent forth a Pro-
phet with a "Thus saith the Lord,"
they are saluted with the cry of " False

Erophet ! " " Delusion ! " &c, &c, from
otn priests and people.
Now, I wish to point out in this short
article a few of the " consequences of
rejecting the testimony of a living Pro-
phet." I have before said that when-
over the Lord sent any judgments upon
mankind, it has been because they re-
jected a living Prophet ; and in proof
of this, I refer the reader in the first
place to the antediluvians. The Lord
raised up unto them a Prophet, and
sent him forth to warn them of the
coming deluge ; and we find that all
who rejected his testimony perished,
while the few who believed his warning
voice were saved. (Gen.vii,) Next he
said of the Sodomites, who had carried
their abominations to such an awful
extent that the Lord could not suffer
them longer thus to live to pollute the
earth ; but he gave them an opportu-
nity to understand the plait of deliver-
ance by raising up Abraham and Lot,
who undoubtedly made known unto
them the awful judgments that God
contemplated pouring upon them. But
they still loved their old practices;
therefore the Lord swept them from the
earth. (See Gen. xviii. and xix.)

Then we read of the whole Egyp-
tian nation being drowned in the depths
of the ocean, while the children of
Israel were delivered therefrom by the
mighty hand of the Lord, because they
obeyed the Prophet Moses. v And if the
reader studies their history from the
time of their emancipation until their

Digitized by

260 CONSEQUENCES OF RBJJ

ultimate arrival in Canaan, he will see
that, in a very singular manner, when-
ever they strictly obeyed the word of
the Lord through their Prophet, they
prospered exceedingly ; but Just so soon
as they rejected his testimony, the
anger of the Lord was kindled against
them, in consequence of which they
were cut off by thousands and by tens of
thousands, whose bodies were left to
moulder away in the wilderness. But
they had not yet totally as a nation de-
parted from the Lord. A few still
remained faithful, who were, looking for
the "redemption of Israel but the
great majority had fallen into apostacy,
insomuch that when the " Lord of life
and glory" came unto them, clothed
with power from on high, they were so
(lark and beclouded in their under-
standings, that they could not see that
in him many of the prophecies of their
more eminent Prophets had a literal
fulfilment. Therefore, instead of receiv-
ing him as their King and Deliverer —
instead of placing a crown of gold upon
his head, they placed thereon a crown
of thorns; and instead of bowing in
humble reverence before him, they spat
upon him. and finally the whole nation
cried with one united voice, " Crucify
him ! crucify him ! " and 44 Let his
blood be upon us and upon our children !"
Oh, what awful power the prince of
darkness had over them ! What intense
darkness must have beclouded their
minds ! Just before his crucifixion, he
stood over their beautiful city (the
pride of their nation, where oft he had
expounded the Scriptures, and con-
founded the learned Kabbins,) and gave
utterance to the following : — 44 Jeru-
salem ! Jerusalem ! thou that killest
the prophets, and stonest them which
are sent unto thee, how often would I
have gathered thy children together,
even as a hen gathereth her chickens
under her wings, and ye would not !
Behold, your house is left unto you
desolate." (Mat. xxiii. 37, 38.) Time
passed away, when the Romans came
upon their ancient city, took possession
thereof, slew their men, women, and
children by thousands ; and finally the
Jews were scattered through the world,
and became 44 a hiss, a taunt, and a
by-word among all nations." And for
why? I answer, Because they had
crucified the Messiah — stoned and killed

CTING TESTIMONY, ETC.

the prophets which had been sent onto
them. Oh, ye Christians, look upon the
poor despised and scattered Jews, and
remember that they are despised and
scattered because they manifest the
same spirit in which their fathers slew the.
Prophets and rejected their testimony
and see that you profit by the example.

These, then, are some of the conse-
quences of rejecting the testimony of a
living Prophet.

Yes, say our Christian friends, we
believe all this ; but God has sent no
Prophet unto us. I ask, If the Lord
would raise up and send forth a Pro-
phet with the ancient gospel in all its
fulness and power, are you prepared
to receive him P Or are you now like the
Jews of oldv with your minds and under-
standings beclouded through your tra-
ditions P Have you not been taught,
and do not your ministers still declare,
that God will not send any more Pro-
phets — that he will give no more re-
velation unto man P Consequently, if a
Prophet were to come, Peter or raul-
like, ( although you have builded churches
and chapels to their names,) and testify
that God had once more spoken from
the heavens, would you not (in your
present feelings,) cast him out from
your cities, and treat his message with
contempt P Cast no more reproach, then,
upon the poor wandering Jews for re-
jecting those whom God nad sent unto,
them, when you would do likewise.

Let us next inquire if there are any
reasons why there should not be a living
Prophet to comfort and cheer the poor
and oppressed of Adam's children in
this our day. Those whose minds are
enlightened by the Spirit of Truth can
see, from the Revelations of St. John,
that some of the most wonderful events
that the world has ever witnessed are to
transpire in this generation ; and I ask,
Will not the Lord make them known to
a Prophet before they take place P The
Christian world, with ten times ten
thousand tongues, say, No. But a word
from the Prophet Amos will put them
all to silence — 44 The Lord will do no-
thing, save he revealeth his secrets to
his servants the prophets." (Amos iii. 7.)
Now, the Christian world must either
believe that the Lord will do nothing \ or
that he will raise up a Prophet to whom
he will reveal his secrets. .

If I can prove, then, that the Lord

Digitized by

CONSEQUENCES OP REJECTING TESTIMONY, ETC.

261

has a work to be performed in this
generation, I shall thereby prove that a
Prophet will be indispensably necessary,
to whom the Lord will make known that
work — a work in which is involved the
salvation of the whole world, both Jew
and Gentile, bond and free, — a work,
which, if they will receive it, will exalt
them in the kingdom of God, and con-
sequently draw down the displeasure
of the Almighty upon all those who
reject it. In proof of this, I refer the
reader to Daniel ii. 44 : — " And in the
days of these kings shall the God of
heaven set up a kingdom, which shall
never be destroyed ; and the kingdom
shall not be left to other people, but it
shall break in pieces and consume all
these kingdoms, and it shall stand for
ever." We gather from this that a
time would come when the "God of
heaven" would set up a kingdom. Now,
it is generally supposed that this had spe-
cial reference to the Church or kingdom
set up by our Saviour 1800 years ago :
but 'this notion is erroneous, which I
proceed to show.

In the first place, it is distinctly stated
that " In the days of these kings/' &c.
What kings ? • I answer, Ten kings or
kingdoms represented by tfce feet and
toes of the great image. (See verses 42
and 43.) Now, did our Saviour set up his
kingdom during the existence of tnese
kingdoms P I answer, No ; for it was
set up many centuries before they had
an existence: they had no existence
until after the breaking up. of the
Boman empire. Secondly — "Which shall
never be destroyed." Now, the Church
or kingdom set up by our Saviour was
destroyed, in fulfilment of Daniel y;i 21 ;
also viii. 24 — "And the same horn
made war with the Saints and prevailed
against them." " And his power shall
be mighty, but not fry his own power :
and he shall desfroy wonderfully, and
shall prosper, and practise, and shall
destroy the mighty and the holy people."
(See also Rev. xiii. 3 — 7.) Now, the
reader must plainly see, from the above,
that this had no reference to the king-
dom that Christ set up. His kingdom
was " not of this world ;" therefore, after
the beast had made war with and " de-
stroyed the mighty and the holy people,"

the Lord took them to himself far from
the reach of every destructive power. But
when the kingdom of our God is set up,
it will " never be destroyed," or " left to
other people;" " but the Saints of the
Most High shall take the kingdom,
and possess the kingdom for ever, even
for ever and ever." (Daniel vii. 18.)

This clearly proves that the subjects
of the kingdom will live until it shall
triumph ; consequently, this must allude
to the Latter-day Kingdom, from the
fact that nothing resembling this has
ever taken place.

In order that this kingdom may
be set up, the ancient Gospel must be
revealed ; for the subjects of the king-
dom must be the "saints of God."
And how can one be a " sainf without
obeying the " everlasting Gospel P" Thus
John "saw another angel fly in the
midst of heaven, having the everlasting
gospel to preach unto them that dwell
upon the earth, and to every nation,
and kindred, and tongue, and people."
(Rev. xiv. 6.) The Prophet Joseph
has come forth and testified to this
generation, (and, in order that all
may be fully warned, has sent hundreds
to bear the same testimony,) that this
holy angel has appeared and committed
unto him the " everlasting Gospel" in all
its fulness and power ; and already has
the testimony gone forth unto every
nation upon the face of the globe, and
thousands, and tens of thousands have
heeded his warning voice. And what
do we behold P A mighty kingdom is
organized and set up in the " tops of the
mountains," answering in every respect
to the description given by the Prophet
Daniel. Therefore we see that God
has sent forth unto this generation a
Prophet — as mighty a Prophet as ever
delivered the word of the Lord to any
people since the world began. And the
cry is again heard, that " he that doeth
£he will of my Father shall know of the
doctrine, whether it be of God, or
whether I speak of myself." This is
the testimony of God's Latter-day
Prophet preparing the way for the
second coming of Messiah — Receive
it, all ye inhabitants of the earth, and be
ye blessed ; for, behold, he cometh, saith
the Lord of Hosts !

Refraik from bitter words : there is only the difference of a letter between words and
swords, or between friends and fiends.

264

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

( Continued from page 248.^

I am dwelling on the immortality of the
spirit of man. Is it logical to say that the
intelligence of spirits is immortal, and yet
that it had a beginning ? The intelligence
of spirits had no beginning, neither will it
have an end. That is good logic. That
which has a beginning may have an end.
There never was a time when there were
not spirits ; for they are co-equal with our
Father in heaven.

* I want to reason more on the spirit of man ;
for I am dwelling on the body and spirit of
man — on the subject of the dead. I take
my ring from my finger and liken it unto
the mind of man — the immortal part, be-
cause- it has no beginning. Suppose you
cut it in two; then it has a beginning
and an end ; but join it again, and it con-
tinues one eternal round. So with the spirit
of man. As the Lord liveth, if it had a
beginning, it will have an end. All the
fools and learned and wise men from the
beginning of creation, who say that the
spirit of man had a beginning, prove that
it must have an end ; and if that doctrine is
true, then the doctrine of annihilation would
be true. But if 1 am right, I might with
boldness proclaim from the house-tops that
God never had the power to create the
spirit of man at all. God himself could not
create himself.

Intelligence is eternal and exists upon a
self-existent principle. It is a spirit from
to age, and there is no creation about it.
the minds and spirits that God ever sent
into the world are susceptible of enlarge-
ment.

The first principles of man are self-
existent with God. God himself, finding he
was in the midst of spirits and glory,
because he was more intelligent, saw proper
to institute laws whereby the rest could
have a privilege to advance like himself.
The, relationship we have with God places
us m a situation to advance in knowledge.
He has power to institute laws to instruct
the weaker intelligencies, that they may be
exalted with himself, so that they might
have one glory upon another, and all that
knowledge, power, glory, and intelligence
which is requisite in order to save them in
the world of spirits.

This is good doctrine. It tastes good;
I can taste the principles of eternal life, and
so can you. They are given to me»by the
revelations of Jesus Christ; and I know
that when I tell you these words of eternal
life as they are given to me, you taste them,
and I know that you believe them. You

say honey is sweet, and so do I. I can also
taste the spirit of eternal life. I know it is
good ; and when I tell you of these things
which were given me by inspiration of the
Holy Spirit, you are bound to receive them
as sweet, and rejoice more and more.

I want to talk more of the relation of man
to God. I will open your eyes in relation to
your dead. All things whatsoever God of
his infinite wisdom has seen fit and proper
to reveal to us, while we are dwelling in
mortality, in regard to our mortal bodies^
are revealed to us in the abstract and inde-
pendent of affinity of this mortal tabernacle,
but are revealed to our spirits precisely as
though we had no bodies at all ; and those
revelations which will save our spirits will
save our bodies./ God reveals them to us in
view of no eternal dissolution of the body,
or tabernacle. Hence the responsibility,
the awful responsibility, that rests upon us,
in relation to our dead ; for all the spirits
who have not obeyed the Gospel in the^esh
must either obey it in the spirit or be damned.
Solemn thought! — dreadful thought! Is
there nothing to be done ? — no preparation
— no salvation for our fathers and friends
who have died without having bad the oppor-
tunity to obey the decrees of the Son of Man P
"Would to God that 1 had forty days and
nights in which to tell you all ! I would let
you know that I am not a " fallen prophet."

What promises are made in relation to
the subject of the salvation of the deadP
and what kinds of characters are those who
can be saved, although their bodies are
mouldering and decaying in the grave P
When his commandments teach us, it is in
view of eternity ; for we are looked upon by
God as though we were in eternity. God
dwells in eternity, and does not view things
as we do.

The greatest responsibility in this world
that God has laid upon us is to seek after
our dead. The Apostle says, " They with-
out us cannot be made perfect ;" for it is
necessary that the sealing power should be
in our hands to seal our children and our
dead for the fulness of the dispensation of
times — a dispensation to meet Sic promises
made by Jesus Christ before the foundation
of the world' for the saltation of man.

Now, I will speak of there* I will meet
Paul half- way. I say tot you, Paul, you
cannot be perfect without us. It is neoes-
sary that those who ace goue before and
those who come after us should have salva-
tion in common with, us; anil thus hath God
made it obligatory upon man. Hence God

Digitized by Google •

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

said, 44 1 will send Elijah the prophet before
the coming of the great and dreadful day of
the Lord ; and he shall turn the hearts of
the fathers to the children, and the hearts of
the children to their fathers, lest I come and
smite the earth with a curse."

I have a declaration to make as to the
provisions which God hath made to suit the
conditions of man — made from before the
foundation of the world. What has Jesus
said? All sins, and all blasphemies, and
every transgression, except one, that man
can be guilty of, may be forgiven ; and there
is a salvation for all men, either in this
world or the world to come, who have not
committed the unpardonable sin, there
being a provision either in this world
or the world of spirits. Hence God hath
made a provision that every spirit in the
eternal world can be ferreted out and
saved, unless he has committed that un-

Sardonable sin which cannot be remitted to
im either in this world or the world «f
spirits. God has wrought out a salvation
for all men, unless they have committed a
certain sin ; and every man who has a friend
in the eternal world can save him, unless
he has committed the unpardonable sin . And
so you can see how far you can be a saviour.

A man cannot commit the unpardonable
sin after the dissolution of the body, and
there is a way possible for escape. Know-
ledge saves a man ; and in the world of
spirits no man can be exalted but by know
tedee. So long as a man will not give heed
to the commandments, he must abide without
salvation. If a man has knowledge, he can
be saved ; although, if he has been guilty of
great sins, he will be punished for them.
But when he consents to obey the Gospel,
whether here or in the world of spirits, he
is saved.

A man is his own tormentor and his own
eondemner. Hence the saying, They shall
go into the lake that burns with fire and
brimstone. The torment of disappointment
in the mind of man is as exquisite as a lake
burning with fire and brimstone. I say so
is the torment of man.

I know the Scriptures and understand
them. I said no man can commit the
unpardonable sm after the dissolution of the
body, nor in this life, until he receives the
Holy Ghost; but they must do it in this
world. Hence the salvation of Jesus Christ
was wrought out for all men in order to
triumph over the Devil ; for if it did not catch
him in one place, it would in another ; for
he stood up as a Saviour. All wiU suffer
until they obey Christ himself.

The contention m heaven was — Jesus said
there would be certain souls that would not
be saved j and the Devil said he could save
them all, and laid his. plans before the grand

268

council, who gave their vote in favour of
Jesus Christ. So the Devil rose up in
rebellion against God, and was cast down,
with all who put up their heads for him.

All sins shall be forgiven, except the
sin against the Holy Ghost ; for Jesus will
save all except the sons of perdition. What
must a man do to commit the unpardonable
sin P He must receive the Holy Ghost,
have the heavens opened unto him, and
know God, and then sin against him. After
a man has sinned against the Holy Ghost,
there is no repentance for him. He has got
to say that the sun does not shine while he
sees it; he has got to deny Jesus Christ
when the heavens hate been opened unto
him, and to deny the plan of salvation with
his eyes open to the truth of it ; and from that
time he begins to be an enemy. This is the
case with many apostates of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

When a man begins to be an enemy to
this work, he hunts me, he seeks to kill me,
and never ceases to thirst for my blood. He
gets the spirit of the Devil — the same spirit
that they had who crucified the Lord of Life
— the same spirit that sins against the Holy
Ghost. You cannot save such persons ; you
cannot bring them to repentance : they make
open war, like the Devil, and awful is the
consequence.

I advise all of you to be careful what you
do, or you may by-and-by find out that you
have been deceived. Stay yourselves ;* do
not give way ; don't make any hasty moves :
you may be saved. If a spirit of bitterness
is in you, don't be in haste. You may
say that man is a sinner. Well, if he
repents, he shall be forgiven. Be cau-
tious] await. When yon find a spirit
that wants bloodshed — murder, the same
is not of God, but is of the Devil. Out
of the abundance of the heart of man the
mouth speaketh.

The best men bring forth the best works.
The man who tells you words of life is
^the man who can save you. I warn you
against all evil characters who sin agamst
the Holy Ghost ; for there is no redemption
for them in this world nor in the world to
come.

I could go back and trace every subject of
interest concerning the relationship of man
to God, if I had time. I can enter into the
mysteries ; I can enter largely into the
eternal worlds ; for Jesus said, " In mjy
Father's house are many mansions: if it
were not so, I would have told you. I go to
prepare a place for you." (John 14th chap.,
: ma v.) Paul says, " There is one glory of
the sun, and another glory of the moon, and
another glory of the stars ; for one star
differeth from another star in glory. So
also is the resurrection of the dead. (1st

Digitized by

264

EDITORIAL.

Cor. 15th chap., 41st v.) What have we to
console us in relation to the dead? We
have reason to have the greatest hope and
consolations for our dead of any people on
the earth ; for we have seen them walk
worthily in our midst, and seen them sink
asleep in the arms of Jesus ; and those who
have died in the faith are now in the celestial
kingdom of God. And hence is the glory of
the sun.

You mourners have occasion to rejoice
(speaking of the death of Elder King Follett);
for your husband and father is gone to wait
until the resurrection of the dead— until the
perfection of the remainder ; for at the resur-

rection your friend will rise in perfect felicity
and go to celestial glory, while many must
wait myriads of years before they can receive
the like blessings; and your expectations
and hopes are far above what man can con-
ceive ; for why has God revealed it to us P

I am authorized to say, by the authority
of the Holy Ghost, that you have no occasion
to fear ; for he is gone to the home of the
iust. Don't mourn ; don't weep. I know it
by the testimony of the Holy Ghost that is
within me; and you may wait for your
friends to come forth to meet you in th*
morn of the celestial world.

( To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, April 20th, 1861.

ESTABLISHMENT OF A CHURCH PRINTING-OFFICE.

We take great pleasure in announcing to the Saints and our friends that we
have made arrangements for the printing and publishing of our own periodicals
and other works of the Church, in future, from our own office. The present
number of the Star and Journal of Discourses are the first issues of these
journals from our own office. The propriety of purchasing a printing-press,
type, &c, &c, and doing our own printing therewith, was suggested by
President Young ; and it was his wis*h, expressed before we left home, that upon
our arrival here we should devote some attention to the subject of doing our own
printing, and ascertain its feasibility. We hoped that the results of our attention
to this matter — ending as it did in our decision that it would be better for the
Church to have its own printing-office and do its own printing — would have
been apparent in a shorter period than has elapsed since our arrival. But
other duties have necessarily claimed a large portion of our time; and
as we did not wish to make a change from the method of doing busi-
ness adopted by our predecessors, and followed by them so many years,
merely for the sake of change, we deemed it wise to move cautiously and satisfy
ourself that the change would be beneficial. From the investigations we have
made, and our own knowledge of the business, we feel satisfied that, with
economical management, the printing of our own works in our own office will be
' an advantage to the Church. Still, to make this assurance of ours doubly sure,
we hope that every officer and member throughout this Mission will become an
active agent in extending the circulation of the Star and Journal, and do all that
is possible to swell the numbers upon our subscription list. The sub-
scribers for these periodicals are not near so numerous as they should be. We
think the patronage extended to the Star an excellent index by which to judge
of the health and prosperity of the Mission, or of Districts, Conferences, and
Branches comprised in the Mission ; for when a people are fully alive to their

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL.

266

religion, and desirous of comprehending its duties, they will seek the necessary
knowledge through the means provided for its extension.

It will still be our aim to make the Star a medium through which the Saints
and the Priesthood shall receive those instructions and items of counsel which
are necessary for their development and' continued growth in the things of God.
We shall always be gratified to receive articles and communications from the
Elders and others, and trust that they will take a laudable interest in making
the Star an instructive and interesting visitor to those into whose hands it may

Among other changes that have been made, we have brought the printing
materials, &c, of the Udgom Seion, (the periodical published by the Church in
the Welsh language at Swansea,) up to this place. We found that there was
stock in the office there which, if brought here and united with what we were
purchasing, might be used to advantage. Two numbers of this paper have been
already issued from this office. We trust, however, that this change will not be
the means of decreasing the number of subscribers, or of lessening the interest
of the Welsh Saints in the Udgorn, as pains will be taken to render it as interest-
ing as possible to all its readers.

That this new enterprise may be attended by the blessing of the Lord, and
most abundant success, is our most earnest desire ; in which we doubt not we are
joined by the friends of the kingdom of God everywhere.

In a previous number of the Star, we gave a word of caution to the Presiding Officers
throughout the Mission, respecting the impropriety of incurring Branch and Con-
ference debts, with the expectation of being able at some future time to meet them.
Those who at that time might not have perceived the wisdom of such a word of
caution or counsel may yet perceive it, and be willing to acknowledge that, in
obeying it, they have been freed from embarrassments and annoyances that would
have deprived them of much of the pleasure which it is their privilege to enjoy in
their ministry. At the present time, we wish to give the Elders themselves a
word of caution on the same subject — to counsel them to avoid incurring personal
debts by borrowing from the Stiints. This is a course that has been frequently
taken by many of the Elders, to their own injury and the injury of the Saints from
whom they have borrowed. When fields of labour have been assigned to such
persons, and they have become acquainted with the people and their circum-
stances, and obtained a little influence by virtue of their position as Elders, they
have taken the first opportunity of borrowing money for their own use. And, in
many instances, they have not confined their borrowing to those who have been
well supplied with means, but have even borrowed of those who have only
had a little accumulated for the purpose of emigrating. Practices of this kind
have produced much trouble, and the Priesthood have been brought into disrepute
by them, because those who have indulged in them have not always been able to
meet their liabilities as they have wished and promised ; and those of whom they
have obtained the means have been disappointed and compelled to sustain the
loss, and frequently when they could ill-afford it.

There is not the slightest necessity now for the Elders to take a course of this kind,

fall.

PAY AS YOU GO, AND KEEP OUT OF DEBT.

-o-

266

EDITORIAL.

and we hope they will refrain from it. If they borrow for their own use, or if the
Saints or others desire to lend them means, it must not be done on the strength
4>f their official position. The Presidency here are opposed to men's using their
Priesthood or official position for any such purpose, and are determined to
discountenance every practice of this kind. If the Saints or others feel to comply
with requests for loans for the private uses of Elders, we wish it distinctly under-
stood that they must do it, not upon their responsibility as officers of the Church,
but upon their own personal responsibility, apart from any official position they
may hold. But we do not wish to see any Elder's influence and usefulness
curtailed by his placing himself in such bondage ; for bondage it is to any man
( of feeling to be in debt, especially if .he sees no prospect beforo him of being able
to meet it at the time reqnired. We wish the ministers of salvation in these lands
to be free from every fetter and every yoke, that their influence may not be
restricted, that their whole souls may be devoted to the advancement of the work
in which they are engaged and the honourable fulfilment of their missions. Unless
this can be the case, their labours will not be effective.* The Elders should be
unsparing in their exertions to keep themselves free from every personal
entanglement. If they are acting as Presidents, they should not be satisfied until
the Branches, Conferences, and Districts under their charge shall be entirely free
from every embarrassment. When this becomes the condition of the Elders
themselves, and of the Branches, Conferences, and Districts composing this
Mission, the work of the Lord entrusted to us will prosper, and His power will
be felt to a greater extent than ever before among the Saints, and also among
those out of the Church who have not arrived at a knowledge of the truth.
Besides this desirable result, there will be another result also very desirable,,
following a course of this kind ; that is, there will be no old scores entailed upon
our successors like a hereditary disease transmitted from one generation to
another, to settle after we are gone, burdening the men who are called to fill our
places, and crushing the life out of them and out of the people under their charge.
There will be no dead horse to pay for that somebody else has used and worn
.out, and of which nothing is left but the carcase, which, putrifying, sends forth
its noisome effluvia to assail the nostrils of all who pass near.

There has been too great a laxity upon the above points among many who
have attained unto the Priesthood. Some have seemed to go so far as to have
imagined, that because they have been ordained to the Priesthood, and called to
act in the ministry, they can treat the principles of upright dealing with contempt.
Being ordained appears to have elevated them above all the rules that regulate
the conduct of ordinary people ; so much so, that what would be expected to
apply to those who are only members of the Church would have no application
whatever to them. This is wrong ; and when wrong is perpetrated by a man
who holds the Priesthood it is as reprehensible as though it were committed by
a member. It is the height of presumption for any man to think, because he is
ordained to the Priesthood, and called into the ministry, that he can violate the
principles of honesty, or be other than upright and straightforward in all his
intercourse with his fellow-man, and escape condemnation. While this feeling
is entertained and carried out, the Priesthood cannot be respected as it should be
by the people. Elders, to be respected, must be honourable and punctual in all
their dealings with their brethren and Bisters, and the people by whom they are
surrounded. They must hold themselves aloof from every transaction that might
be looked upon as improper, not only avoiding evil, but shunning the very

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL

267

Appearance of evil. They will thus become living epistles to be read of all men,
and the influence of their actions and presence will be greater than the influence
of any number of discourses, however eloquently delivered, unaccompanied by
honest and virtuous conduct.

It is a very mistaken idea to think that Priesthood or position is
all that is necessary to give authority and influence 4o its holder. Without
uprightness and integrity on the part of those who receive it, the Priesthood ia
a blessing neither to them nor to the people. No man that does not exercise
these qualities can have the spirit and power of his calling. If the path of those
who have disregarded these principles should be traced, and their labours be
properly estimated, it would be found that they have been more of an injury than a
benefit to the work in which they have been engaged : they have been dried up
in spirit, and the people among whom they have laboured have partaken, to a
greater or less extent, of the same lifeless feeling. Lustful and unvirtuous
conduct may invariably be observed attending or following the neglect of the
principles of integrity and honesty, because the loss of the Spirit, consequent upon
the neglect of such principles, renders them liable to temptations of that kind.

We trust that the Presidents of Districts will eschew the practices above alluded to
themselves, and see that they are not followed by those under their presidency.
They are literally placed as shepherds over the flock of Christ, and it is their
duty to see that the portion of the flock placed under their care is not in any
way injured or taken advantage of by any one, although they may appear in the
guise of shepherds. We here repeat, and we emphatically mean what we say,
that we hold the Presidents of Districts responsible for the condition of things in
their Districts. They should not plead ignorance, for they have no right to
be ignorant. They have been freed from the direct transaction of the monetary
business of their Districts, that they might with better grace and more leisure
scrutinize and exert a supervisory care over every department of their field. If
men labouring in the ministry, or to whom funds are entrusted, are doing wrong,
are peculating, or are in any way taking advantage of their position, it is their
business to know it, and they should be so filled with the spirit of their office
that it cannot be concealed from them. Iniquity will thus be effectually uprooted
from the midst of the people of God. When the Presidents of Districts become
thus fully alive to their duties and responsibilities, the cloak will be torn from •
the hypocrite and transgressor, and will no longer afford them a screen under which
to embezzle the money of the Saints or of the Church to pander to their base
lusts ; and the meek and humble servants and Saints of God will rejoice in the
change and in the.wise and beneficent carrying out of the principles of truth and
justice.

Departure. — The packet-ship Manchester cleared on the 15th instant, and
sailed on the morning of the 16th from this port for New York, having on
board 379 souls of the Saints, under the presidency of Elder Claudius V.
Spencer. The company, when organized, presented a very interesting appearance,
and seemed to enjoy themselves admirably. Much good feeling and kindly
Intercourse was manifested, and a spirit of joy and thankfulness at their long-
desired emancipation having arrived appeared to pervade the whole.

Elders Edward Hanhain, William Jefferies, James Mc. Ghie, William Bayliss,
George P. Ward, Benjamin P. Evan*, David Jeshn, Barry Wrido, B. F. Cook r

Digitized by

268

CORRESPONDENCE.

John Davies, David Mustard, and Job Pingree, who have laboured in the
ministry in these lands — some of them for a number of years — with grateful
hearts availed themselves of the privilege of going to Zion, and have sailed on the
Manchester with the blessing of the Presidency here.

President Spencer has laboured for a short period in the Southampton
District with energy and zeal ; but his rapidly-failing health has compelled him
to return to Zion, though his desires were strong to continue his labours in these
lands. He is assisted by Elders Hanham and Jefferies as Counsellors,

On Sunday, the 14th, Presidents Lyman, Rich, and Cannon visited the ship ai
she lay in the river, and held meeting, giving the Saints many good instruction!
relative to their journey, and their parting blessing.

May the blessing of the Lord attend them in their journeyings to the mountain
home of the Saints !

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Coventry, April 8, 1861.
Elder George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — It is quite a pleasure
to me to read the reports of the Elders
in their different fields of labour, and per-
haps it may not be uninteresting to you to
hear from the Warwickshire Conference.

I entered upon the duties of my office
as President of this Conference Jan. 1st.
I found the Saints doing as well as
they could, considering their circum-
stances. Their determination was to
do the best they could. I have
had brothers Richard Aldridge and
William Jeffs three months, and Joseph
Foster two months, with me. They
have laboured here two or three years.
But the time has come for brothers
Aldridge and Foster to go ( to Zion, to
learn the way of the Lord more per-
fectly ; and I feel thankful the time has
come that two more of the Elders are
permitted to enjoy this blessing of
going home ; for it is a blessing for all
those that go there for the truth's sake,
and do not forget what they have gone
for, — to build up the kingdom of God
here on this earth — not away beyond
the bounds of time and space. The
ensign stands at the present time in the
valleys of the Rocky Mountains, around
which rally thousands from the nations
this year ; and may the Lord bless them
both bv sea and land !

In this Conference we have baptised,

in the first auarter of this year, twenty-
three, and the prospects are as good for
the second quarter. There have been
three baptisms already for 'the second
quarter, and more are ready as soon as
circumstances will permit.

I cannot say that there have been
large attendances of strangers at our
meetings ; but, of those who nave come,
if coming has not made Saints of them,
it has made them friends. Our preaching,
in many instances, is like the casting of
bread upon the waters, which will be
gathered after many days. There ifl
no particular excitement ; all is peace,
and not a dog to wag his tongue, where,
but a few years ago, the Saints could
not hold their meetings, and in many
instances only narrowly escape with their
lives. Only one thing hinders a mighty
ingathering of souls into the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints— that
is priestcraft. They have got its bands
made so strong that it is almost im-
possible to pull one head of wheat out
of the bands; but the honest in heart
will come to hear the truth of heaven
as has been revealed to Joseph Smith
the Prophet. Although he has been
murdered for the truth he bore, yet
his words speak in the ears of all living
like peals of thunder ; and they few
words this day more than they do tne
fierce and vivid lightning. The revela-
tion concerning the wars that have
commenced by the rebellion of SoutD
Carolina is making no small stir, whicn

Digitized by

Google

CORRESPONDENCE.

269

will, in connexion with the gathering of
Saints by thousands every year, con-
tinue. The axe is laid at tne root of
the tree, and all nations will feel the
effect of it.
Yours truly,

Homer Duncan.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Logstoer, March 21, 1861.
President A. Lyman,

Dear Brother, — Hoping that a few
lines concerning the happy and pros-
perous state of the Church, and the
rapid progress of the Latter-day Work
in this remote region, would be accept-
able to you, I sit down to accomplish it.

In a letter I wrote, in January last, I
mentioned a few historical facts concern-
ing that small province which consti-
tutes Wensyssel Conference, where the
people are distinguished for their libe-
rality and kind-heartedness. I have
laboured there a gjoodly part of the
winter, under the direction of brother
C. A. Madsen ; and I must say that the
longer I stay there the more I Admire the
warm-heartedness of the people, and
their inquiry after the truth. There is
more religious influence there than in
any other part of Scandinavia. As far
as I know, several ministers try to reform
their people, in consequence of their
fearing to be conquered by our influence.
Others are trying to found new systems,
and separate or partly separate them-
selves from the Church of the State
(the Lutheran Church). They all have
more or less influence, but Mormonism
beats them all ; and those who do not
love it fear it. As a proof that some
love it, it was reported, as well as I am
familiar with our last Conference, that
61 persons had been baptized in that
small place since the 25th of November
last ; and 10 were baptized a few days
afterwards, under my observation ; and
20 more at least have been baptized
since that time ; and they are good people
indeed. They desire to join hand and
heart with us for the upbuilding of
the kingdom of our God, and that is the
feeling of all the Saints with whom I
am acquainted in this northern part of
the Mission.
I must come back to Wensyssel again

a little. I have just received a letter
from brother Weiby, the President of
that Conference, and my guess was
not far from right concerning bap-
tisms : 25 have been baptized since the
Conference in February. I think about
90 Saints will go to America this season.
The influence of the Gospel is being felt
by nearly all in little Wensyssel. Some
of the people have not faith enough to
be baptized, but they have faith to feed
the Elders, and give them money and
clothing, while they would not give a
dime to their own minister, except the
law required it.

The ministers of different denomina-
tions cannot have their desired influ-
ence : they are afraid of division, and
they go to the utmost extent of hypocrisy
to avoid it. They say reformation in
the Church is necessary. They can
make up a tremendous noise, and make
the people cry, but not either to reform
or repent.

Here, in Aalborg Conference, we do
not find so much division in the State
Church ; but still they don't cling to it
at all. Many believe our doctrine. Only
thirty persons were baptized here since
our last Quarterly Conference. "Aalborg
is the second city in Denmark, and
there is a pretty large Branch there.
We had a crowded hall on the day of
our Conference, the 3rd instant. The
Spirit of the Lord was poured out in a
measure hitherto unknown in this sec-
tion. Brother Jesse Smith, who had
ust arrived in Copenhagen, was with
brother Liljenquist to visit this section.

After the Conference, I went to the
small district here in the western part
of the country, where I used to be a
Travelling Elder in former times. In
certain places here I found some of the
old Saints, and some of them were truly
old and cold. I felt much impressed to
invoke the blessing of the Lord to be
with his servants, and to add strength
to those old Branches. I have realised
the answer to my prayer ; for I have in
a short time, in connection with the '
Travelling Elder, baptized fourteen
persons, as well as attended several
meetings, private and public ; and new
life is felt already in the Branches. I
was very unexpectedly called on to
baptize six persons last night in this
place.

The Saints feel to rejoice, but the

Digitized by

270

CORRESPONDENC K.

wicked mourn, and are unhappy ; they
are frightened by rumours of war,
pestilence, and those things that are to
come in the last days. No one feels
safe, except those who receive the
Gospel and walk by its sacred precepts.
The way opens brighter and brighter
for the poor to go home to Zion. The
rich are liberal to assist, and some are
even apt to do more than would be
wisdom to do.

Considering th6 calamity, misery,
woe, and sorrow that are to be multiplied
upon the inhabitants of the earth, I feel
more and more pity, especially for the
honest in heart, and lift up my humble
voice, like a trumpet, that I may pos-
sibly be instrumental in the hands of
God to save some few, that they may
elude the scourges of the Almighty,
and be rescued from the regions of
death and perdition to life eternal. I
consider the kingdom of God, at this
period — or rather its progress — as an
ever-flowing river, whose current rolls
pleasantly on in majestic silence, though
as it were unnoticed by many.

The wicked do not discover the rapid
progress of the work of the Lord, the
ground it is gaining, and the final laurels
of victory and triumph that will ere
long crown the efforts and enterprise of
the righteous who study to do the mind
and will of the Lord, although they
wonder when they think about it, and
hardly know what to think.

I rejoice in doing good. WTien I see
the sick healed, the mourning to lift
up their heads, and so forth, through
my instrumentality, I am truly' happy ;
and my fervent desire and solemn
application to the Heavens is ever
directed in that channel to do good
or to be qualified to do more good ; for
I love them.

I am, dear brother, yours very res-
pectfully,

A. Christensex.

AMERICA.
Extract op a Letter -from Hon. Wm.
H. Hooper.

Washington, March 27th, 1861.

Geo. Q. Gannon,

My dear Friend and Brother, — I have
to acknowledge the receipt of your two
much esteemed favours, dated respec-

tively, the 1st and 8th inst., which were
duly received and contents appre-
ciated.

The topic .that has been uppermost for
the past week in political circles is the
evacuation of Fort Sumter It appears
that the Lincoln Administration have
concluded to remove Major Anderson
and his command ; but the order has
been delayed, in order that the least
humiliating mode may be adopted for
their removal. Colonel Lamon has
been despatched by Mr. Lincoln to Fort
Sumter, with (it is said) the order (con-
ditionally) to Major Anderson to evacuate
the Fort. He reached Charleston on
Sunday ; and on Monday, after an inter-
view with the authorities there, he visited
the Fort ; and it is presumed it will be
evacuated to-day. [It was not evacu-
ated at last advices — April 2nd. Ed.
M. S.]

The Montgomery Commissioners are
still here. It is not known definitely the
course the Government intend to pursue
in relation to' their mission. The recent
revenue, or Tariff Bill, which is so un-
popular with the commercial and agri-
cultural interests, will evidently prove
an abortion, as it will be evaded in every
possible way; and as the Southern
Confederacy, through their tariff sys-
tem, have opened the door for such a
result, the Administration is becoming
alarmed for the welfare of the revenue
to carry on the Government. The
revenue system seems to be the most
intricate of all the difficulties which will
arise between the two Confederacies, to
settle.

Greeley, in an article of recent date,
showing the impracticability of perma-
nent secession, speaks thus : — " I£ like
Dr. Francia in Paraguay, or Brigham
Young in Utah, the Secessionists were
embosomed in the midst of a great con-
tinent, and content to live entirely
within themselves, without the necessity
of any external commerce, there might
be some hopes for the success of their
plans but this is very far from being
the case." These remarks have muca
meaning.

I have dates from home to the 5th
inst. Matters were moving alongjsros-
perously. considerable being done in the
way of furnishing teams for the trans-
portation of the poor from Florence thuf
season. I am in receipt of dates trtom

Digitized by Google

SUMMARY.

271

President Young to the 21st ult. All
well.

In conclusion, permit me to request
a kind remembrance to Presidents
layman and Rich, and all by whom you
are surrounded.

Extract of a Letter from Elder
R. L. Campbell.

• G. S. L» City, Feb. 28th, 1861.
Elder G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — On Saturday, the
15 th February, Presidents Young and
Kimball attended the Seventies' meet-
ing, at which I was present. The subject
under consideration was the erection
of the Seventies' Hall of Science, the
foundation of which was laid, I think,
in 1852 or 1853. President Young in-
structed the Seventies to go to work
and build it of brick, enclose it this
fall, and finish it next year. He felt it
was a duty ; and, as he did not calcu-
late to build much himself this year, he
could help to the amount of 2,50<f dol-
lars in lumber.

He related many incidents in his life
illustrative of the principle of liberality,
and the benefit resulting to a community
from public improvements and the
erection of public buildings, hinting at
the many 1 improvements made and

buildings erected in Nauvoo shortly
before being called to leave it.

President Kimball followed in the
same strain, and said, " He calculated
to give it a hoist" himself, (that is, the
erection of the Seventies' Hall of Sci-
ence,) and also the theatre, which the
President had hinted at building. He
felt to sustain President Young in the
position, that if we went to work with
all our might, and emigrated the poor,
and erected these buildings, we should
have more help to build the Temple than
if we let them alone.

President Wells is so far improved
that I see him out and around.

Richard Cook and fifteen others, of
South Weber, were cut off from the
Church by Elders Woodruff and Taylor,
on their recent tour north, for following
the Prophet Morris.

Elders George A. Smith and Joseph
A. Young are on a tour through tne
southern country, preaching.

The weather has been good for this
season of the year, with occasional falls
of snow ; and, from appearances, I anti-
cipate an early spring. Indications are
very favourable for an excellent crop of
fruit and abundant crops of other
products. In some places ploughing
and grain-seeding have already com-
menced.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS,

AmxiCAif . — The State Conventions of Florida, Mississippi, and Texas have by vote
ratified the constitution of the Southern Confederacy. The State Convention of Alabama
has passed an ordinance providing that the General Assembly of the State of Alabama
shall cede a district of ten miles square for a seat of government of the Confederate States.
In the House of Delegates at Richmond, Virginia, a resolution has been passed protesting'
against the removal of arms and armaments in that State by the Government at Washing*
ton. Fifty heavy guns have been completed for the Federal Government at the Bellona
Foundry, near Richmond, which Mr. Lincoln has ordered to be delivered to Fort Monroe ;
but the Virginia Legislature, by the resolution, declares that they shall not be so delivered
while the State Convention is considering the question of secession ; and, further, that the
Governor shall be empowered " to call out the public guard to arrest the contemplated
removal, and directing him to employ 'the needful force to resist any attempt to remove
the guns beyond the reach and control of the State government," Latest dates from the
city of Mexico are to the effect, that the condition of things throughout the republic was as
wretched as possible. The roads swarm with banditti, and no traveller is safe. Foreigners
are especially obnoxious, and numbers are daily assassinated throughout the republic.

General. The Moniteur publishes an official notification of the blockade of the coasts
of Albania from Durazzo to the neighbouring frontier of Austria. Turkish vessels have
been ordered to regularly maintain the blockade, which commenced on the 13th April.
Communication with Warsaw is now becoming more difficult. Arrests continue to take
place. Disturbances have broken out at Kiev, the capital of the Ukraine, in consequence
of a funeral service for the victims of Warsaw. A bloody conflict, took place between thtt
inhabitants and the Russian troops, in which gresfc numbers were killed and wounded.

Digitized by

272

VARIETIES. POETRY. ADDRESSES. INQX'IRY.

VARIETIES.

Pbopls say the* shell peas, #hen they tmshell them ; husk corn, when they unhusk it ;
dust furniture, when they h ndust it ; skin an animal, when they uitskin it ; scale fishes, 1
when they u/iscale them ; and weed their gardens, when they are weedy enough already. .

44 Mormon" Expertness at Figures. — H. Pegg, a young Travelling Elder in the
Church of Latter-day Saints, has extracted the cube root of 9634183287296237961057577
41670800709805538526384860897069 ; and has likewise, unaided by logarithms, extracted
the biquadraterootof 951524275312305436261 1451808 H88S8360891640503851316340G2
4607556053798251441. Anti-Mormons will see by this that the *' Mormon" boys aj*i*r"
all the dullards they have represented them to be.

POETRY.

Their H m

Each feature atta

THE LAND FAR AWAY.

Come, join me, my children and wife, There beau

To sing of the land far away :
Se\ ere are the labours of life

To Saints, where the Oontiles bear sway.
t - JTo increase my poor pittance of wage,

My body and mind are fatigued :
'Gainst labour a warfare to wage.

Both priestcraft and mammon are leagued.
Though in Babylon's bondage we sigh,
1 The scene shall' be change*! by- and -by :

The command we'll obey,

And we'll hasten away
To Zion, the refuge on high.

Though sterile the rocks, they are strong;

The va leys are healthy and safe :
Salvation shall then be our song

As we laugh, while our enemies ehafo.
Yet that's but a nest in a

Were safely a brood m,
As the leaves, vc tnav nur

When the wav of the Ix>rd is
When the nations

Then the Saints shall again
Hold their lands on the plain :
Extensive savannahs are their*.

Chesterfield.

i grandeur combine,
uiuam. and clime :

n the soil and the mine :

the sublime.
And when the fierce judgments are past,

The " plants of renown" shall arise
And construct a new empire as \ a.st

As the land, and the tea. and the skies.
Faith and Hope bring the blessings in sight :
Then let ns in labour uuite
To gather the means
To enjoy the glad scenes.
Where all may be free to do right

That land is as sacred to me
As Canaan to Israel of old;
Predicted— a land of the free,
Whero Jesus had sheep and a fold —
me have been hid—

halfow'd the sod—
ive suffered and bled,
blest by the presence of God.
Tliere a temple of temples shall rise,
Inviting the Lord from the skies;
And the ]*riesthood exteud
Bb power without end.
. AH blessings in one to comprise,

. Edward Sttxbbs Sttiw.

{

Addbb ssks^ — John Lindsay, at Mr. W. Webb's, Church Street, Bishop's Stortford, Herts.

George A. Wiscombe, at Mr. Henry Hancock's, Woodburo Green, near Beaconsfield, Bucks.

s Ihquiry.— Philip Back, (sen of William and Hannah Dack, of Shipdham, Norfolk.) who emigrated to Utah
in March, 1858. and from whom letters were thence received tip to August, 1858. has not since been beard of
, If anyone should know of the whereabout or fate of the said William Dack, or any other intelligence r
mm, the same will be thankfully received by his parents^JJSeJfcy papers, please copy.]

CONTENTS.

What is u Mormonism" ? 257

Consequences of Rejecting the Testimony of a
Living Prophet ~ 259

aistory of Joseph Smith 262
Ittorial.— Establishment of a Church Printing-
office.— Pay af you Go, and Keep out of Debt

—Departure ..... 264

Correspondence.— England : Letter from Elder
Duncan.— Scandinavian Mission : Letter from

Elder Christenseh. — America : Extracts of
Letters from Hon. W. H. Hooper and Hkfer ,

CampbeU „ 26*.

Summary of News and Passing Events 171 '

Varieties . 272

Poetry.— The Land Far Away +~ 271

Addresses „ „ 272

Inquiry 171

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q, CANNON, 42, ISUNGTON.
LONDON:

IQR RALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 80, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STRE^JJ
ISLINGTON j AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAIKTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

l A mise sltoll come even to the ends of the earth : for thr. Lord hath a controvert^ with tht natipns: he uASk
t fl:<fi wltU tlljleek ; A<j will give theia that arc wicked to the sicord, saith th» Lord,"— Jeiexiaji.

Ho. 18, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, May 4, 1861.

Price One Penny.

SELF-HELP.

BY ELDER E. L. SLOAN.

About eighteen centuries- ago, a few
obscure individuals commenced a work,
tbo object of which was avowedly to
change, nu>dif\\ and purify or overturn
itll, existing religious, moral, and social
institutions by the introduction of the
principles* of truth as revealed from the
heavens.

Humanly speaking, the undertaking
"was an impossibility. They were poor,
illiterate, unconnected with the powerful
aaio«g the children of men, and possess-
ing , sjcnrccly any of the advantage*
• usually associated witli great j^micr-
takings.. ,Yet they accomplished their
ojvn part of the great mission; Assigned
to man, and laid the foundation of a
faith which changed the face of the
T»<^rkl, and which even in its corrupted
forms still bears testimony to their
labours aad success.

. A little over thirty years ago, a few
individuals, inspired or Heaven and led
by the voice of prophecy, commenced to
lay ;tbe foundation of a great power — a
universal empire, which should even-
tually bear rule over all the tribes of
the earth, and in its progress to perfec-
tion gather within its bounds all that is
great, noble, pure.and Godlike, — regene-
rating, suv^vg, and exalting mankind.
Like their predecessors of a prior dispen-
sation, they did jaoj ponaesa the axljuaots

of wealth, learning* m powerful, hsmk-'ui - »
tions among men; yettthey toiled and*
laboured in faith ami hope, while fchem
pretensions were treated with contemp-
tuous ..scorn, their views looked upon
as ftuiatioal and visionary, and 4 the!ir
hopes and aspirations scouted, «s the
•mad extravagancies of fevered and ukra* ,
'enthusiastic imaginations^ Stjill- they
prospered, grew- in power arid- import- .
ance, swelled their flumbers by thou-
sands, built cities and vacated tltem.
under the pressure of bi got ed jpeiseeu-
tion, acquired weaHhby hard industry,
and left it for the spoiler and mobofrat
who had robbed them of it to squander,
founded a Territory, the nucleus of a
State and nation, and .bid fair, accord -
rag If even ordinary observation, at no
distalt day, to realiae then* highest and-
lightest anticipations.

The world is ptusxled how to; account
for the success which has attended
".Mormonism." as they call it. With
the views and opinions-entertained con-
cerning us as a people, our success,,
unity, -and increasing power are im
enigma unsolvable by the wise heads
amdng the children of tjiis world. The
success which attended the establish-
ment of the Crospcl centuries ajjjo, they
can easily account for by admitting thac*
God laboured mightily with itf* propfc.

Digitized by

Google

274

SELF-HELP.

gandists, and miraculously over-ruled
circumstances in their favour. But as
they cannot bring themselves to admit
that God particularly favours the Lat-
ter-day Saints, the enigma remains un-
solved, and it appears yearly to become
-more difficult of solution.

That the Lord blesses his people, we
continually testify; that he aids and
assists them in their most trying hours
and greatest emergencies, the whole his-
tory of the Latter-Day Church bears
record to ; but those blessings and this
iaid and assistance are rendered and
received conditionally, the conditions
being as applicable to one individual as
they are to the Church.

If the Saints of a former dispensation
'Trad not lived so as to enjoy the bless-
ings of heaven, they would not have
received them, for in nothing else did
they differ from the rest of mankind ;
but their holiness of thought, purity of
action, humble obedience, simple ear-
nestness, mighty faith, and self-sacri-
ficing zeal rendered them lit recipients
of the power of God delegated to man,
that his salvation might be consummated.
When the Son of God commanded the
early Apostles to go forth and preach
the Gospel to every creature, they did
not start back affrighted at the vastness
of their field of labour, and plead their
•own poverty and incapability ; but, che-
rishing ' the words of comfort which
Jesus spake unto them, that while they
taught the things he had commanded
them to teach he would be with them
always, even unto the end of the world,
they went forth on their mission, and,
amid persecutions of stonings, bonds,
imprisonments, scourgings, and death
itself in a hundred horrid forms, nobly
performed the work assigned them.

The same remarks hold good with
reference to the Saints of the latter
days. The great secret of success in
the last, as in all former dispensations,
has been living before God so as to
enjoy his power and blessings, and hav-
ing these blessings round about them
continually, and that power to lead, aid,
and direct them. To quote an old
adage, God helps them because they
lielp themselves, in obedience to his
voice and will.

If they had waited till j&very inch of
their way had been mapped out before
them, and until they could, have seen

clehr to the end of every undertaking
they were called to engage in, they
would never have progressed a step in
the path to exaltation; but labouring
with a trusting faith, they had confi-
dence that the same God would smite
upon the consummation of their labours,
wliose approving voice cheered them on
in their commencement ; and with this
confidence they cleared away the diffi-
culties which beset their path, and
astonished the thinking portion of man-
kind by their success and progress
under the most unfavourable circum-
stances.

Faith beget* knowledge, because faith
leads to action ; action gives expe-
rience, and experience is knowledge:
hence, to know what we can accomplish,
we must have an acquaintance, not alone
with what has been* accomplished by
others, but with the power of faith in
ourselves, which worketh wonders, and
maketh the feeble and weak mighty
before God for the accomplishment of
his designs. This knowledge we cannot
obtain only as that faith leads to action,
and proves its power in our lives and
labours. There is not a principle con-
nected with the great work of the last
day but calls for an exemplification of
. this faith before the promised blessing
can be realized ; and just in proportion
as we seek to obtain that gift from God,
and exercise it, so shall we be blessed.
In all this, it will be observed, nelf-help
occupies a prominent position. Every
gift, every blessing we receive, through
faith, reaches us in proportion to the
amount of faith carried into action by ■
ourselves ; and as we help ourselves
under trying circumstances, in diffi-
culties and distress, we prove our pos-
session of the faith we lay claim to. and
call down the blessings and favour of
Heaven upon us.

Every day furnishes us with example*
which testify to the truth of this, and
we do not require to go to the antipode*
for proof of what can be accomplished
by the power of faith and continue^
perseverance and energy.

The present emigration carries with
it many who have waited yearn for their
deliverance, desiring to emigrate ami
anxious to be in the home of the Saints
but for the greater part of the time
trusting too much to assistance being
rendered them from friends, acquaint* .

Digitized by Google

SF.tr-HBLP.

275"

taces. or the liberality nf the Church,
and having too little faith in what they
«f>uld accomplish themselves towards
effecting the desired object. At length,
when hope had almost begun to die in
many of them, thev hearkened to the
-counsels of the Priesthood to use their
own exertions, try and help themselves,
and prove if the Lord would not aid
their righteous efforts to accomplish
their deliverance. Tn many, instances
poor, with large families, and earning
little means, it seemed ai#impossibility,
*ave where the eye of faith could dis-
cern an opening in the dark vista of
difficulties which beset their path.
^Nevertheless, in trusting confidence they
made the attempt, continued it under
peculiar circumstances with persevering
energy, and realized for themselves that
the God of Israel is mighty to save, and
never withholds his aid from those who
arc faithful and deserving. Circum-
stances were favourably controlled
towards them, friends were raised up
to bless them, and their departure for
the land of Zion testifies to the power
of faith, the success of self-help, and
the precious blessings of a kind Provi-
dence wisely and continually dispensed
th all those who labour to receive and
enjoy them. The same course of action
in others will produce the same results,
and our united and persevering exer-
tions, happily directed under the coun-
sels of the Priesthood, will work wonders
in the emancipation of the Saints from
the bondage 01 Babylon.

The Gospel of* salvation is not one-
sided, neither is it limited in power,
bat it circumscribes everything there is
"in existence, and touches every point
which conduces to the salvation of
suffering humanity. Consequently, when
we enjoy th^ spirit of the Gospel,
and labour whole - souledly for the
accomplishment of a righteous pur-
pose, we labour for the advancement of
the kingdom of God, and directly or
' indirectly we are subserving every inte-
rest of that- kingdom. Thus, when we
are working to secure our own emigra-
tion to Zion. we arc bearing the most
powerful testimony we possibly can bear

our confidence in the work and our
faith in God ; and we preach a more
effectual sermon by our actions than
we could do by our words — a sermon
that wiU find an auditory for belief or

rejection in all with whom we have
associated, and which will reach to every-
place where our influence extends.

It is an important fact in the history of
this Mission that the season when emi-
gration was suspended was the only one
marked by no actual increase to the
numbers of the Mission, and the yearn
when emigration has been weightiest
have been marked by a proportionate
increase to the numbers of the Church
here. The reasons for this are bbvious„
aud do not need repeating ; and asso-
ciated with them is another fact, which
individually we should do well to remem-
ber, and that is, that the people who
have not the spirit of emigration
burning within their bosoms are cold to
the interests of the work, careless about
extending the principles of truth, negli-
gent of known duties, and impotent to*
spread salvation around them.

But the desire to emigrate expressed,
and put into active operation, are two*
different things. It is one thing to fold
the hands in a weak supineness, and
wish for the "due time of the Lord"
to come, or pray for *' an highway to
be cast up in the deep," and another to
set to work with might and main,
labouring for our own and Israel's sal-
vation and exaltation. It is one thing
to. hope for the day of gathering to
arrive, and another to dispense with the
many unnecessary 44 comforts" we have
been long accustomed to, and which not
only rob us of our little means, the judi-
cious investment of which would go far
to gather us away from these lands, but
in many instances rob us of the blessings
of God and drive from us his Holy
Spirit. Seeing the condition we are in r
and the work before us, it is unwise, ti
say the least of it, if not positively sinful,
to squander our limited means in things,
of no real worth to us — baubles and
trinkets which do not even adorn the
person, useless lumber in the shape of
extra odds-and-ends of furniture which
add neither comfort nor beauty to the
dwellings they are forced into, feasting*
and idlings at multiplied holidays, con-
tinued gratification of children's whim-
sical fancies, with the ale and tobacco,
the tea and the coffee, and the many
varied ways in which money is used
that might be more wisely and usefully
employed.
If we want the Lord and his servant**

Digitized by Google

THE WORD OP WISDOM.

to help us, lot us put our own hands to
the plough and help ourselves ; if we
desire to be mighty in spreading abroad
these principles of whose excellence we
continually testify, let us live so as to
possess the Spirit of God and the bless-
ings of heaven ; if we are determined to

have salvation, let us pursue a ooutm
to save ourselves temporally and spiritu-
ally ; and by pursuing such a course^
we shall spread salvation around us, sub-
serve the interests of the kingdom of*
(rod, and hasten the regeneration and
exaltation of all who desire to do right.

THE WORD OF WISDOM.

KT iir.DF.tt EHENEZKH TUCKER. \

This was a revelation from Hod ouv ( wisdom, to keep our bodies so that tho--
Father, informing us what food and Holy (ihost may delight to dwell
drinks are good for his Saints, and ad- therein.

vising them to abstain from certain One of the principal evils that we arc
tilings which are calculated to destroy i cautioned against is the u*e of strong
their strength and shorten their days, drink. The Lord, seeing the multi-
Jiy referring to the. Revelation. (Doc. i plieity of evils that its use had caused
aiidCov. p. 210.) will be found, prefacing to the Gentile nations, was very par-
it, the reason why it was given, "not tieular that his Saints should not fall
by commandment or constraint, but by i into the same sin. and thereby bring
revelation and word of wisdom, showing , the same misery upon themselves as the
forth the order and will of God in the Gentiles had done. lie says that
temporal salvation of all Stunts jn the •• inasmuch ax any mnndrinketh wine or
last days. Given for a principle with strong drink among you, behold it is
promise, adapted to the capacity of the | not good, neither meet in the Mglifof
weak, and the -weakest of all Saints who your heavenly Father.*' Therefore, as
are or can be called Saints." we profess to believe that '* all revela-

.Now. this was given for the temporal tiou is given by the inspiration of God,"
salvation of the children of God; and and by this learn that it is not good'
it is one of the characteristics of our i or right in the sight of the Almighty
holy religion, that it embraces a ten\- so to do. we who believe in this ivv»-lu-
poral as well as a spiritual salvation, tion cannot be justified uuless we keep
which constitutes one of the differences ; it.

between the religion of the Saints and What debases a man more than the*
sectarianism. use of strong drink, /it makes a brute

All will acknowledge that God our beast (while under its' influence.) of
Father should know best what is for that being who was created in the
the benefit of his children, and what is image of God. and brings disea.su and
calculated to injure ; and yet how slow I misery upon himself and his offspring,
we arc to follow his counsel! although j We ought certainly to be able to practise,
he promis-es that all who do so ■'shall I self-denial sufficient to abstain from an
receive health in their navel, and mar- j evil that brings so much misery upon
row to their bones, and shall find ' the human race ; and i have never
wisdom and groat treasures of ^know- | found anyone to prove the good its use
ledge, even hidden treasures, and shall docs to man. The most eminent phy-
run and not be weary, and walk and j sicians of the age declare that a man
nut faint." j may leave off using strong , drink without'

It is the. will of God that his people ? injury to his constitution— that the
should have pure bodies — fit temples j body does not require it. and is really
for the Holy Ghost to dwell in: for the j in better health without it. Tho.se who
Spirit of (iod will not abide in an j are strong should abstain from that
unclean and unholy tabernacle, ft is | which causes their weaker brethren to
the Spirit that reveals great treasures j fall, if only as an example,
of knowledge and wisdom. How care- 1 But. says one who is fond of his
iul, then, we should be, if we desire ! glass, "i can do inure w>rk after

Digitized by

ADDKRSS TO THK MSTBR8 Or THE OKUKOB.

vrr~

yartaking of strong drink than without
it P" To such a one I say, Tf you do bo.
you do it to the damage of your constitu-
tion ; and you must pay the debt, sooner
or later, by a shortening of your days.

In support of this, I quote the words
of President Young, (who all the
Saints will acknowledge should know
something about it.) in his instructions
at the Conference, as given in No. 52
fHar, Vol. XXI :—

** He counselled and commanded the
Elders to let whisky and brandy alone ?
and, while they were able to walk and
ride about, not to suy they wanted or
needed liquor : argued that every time
men take liquor or stimulants into their
Systems, they shorten their Kves : ad-
vised men not to work so hard that they

I had to get half drunk in order to keep
! it up : said he had instructed Bishops
; and High Councils to cut men off from
the Church who will get drunk : he had
: no fellowship with nor for drunkards,
( whoremongers, thieves, liars, or swear-
| ers."

In conclusion, 1 w ; ould say, that the
! use of intoxicating drinks is a useless*
j debasing, and oxponwive Gentile habit :
! and I would humbly recommend aU
Saints to read the Word of Wisdom, and-
if they wish to serve God acceptedly*
1 to practise the counsels there given,
j that they may have claim to the promise
j of the Almighty — *• That the destroying
! angel shall pass by them as the children. r
of Israel, and not slay them."

ADDRESS TO THE SISTERS OF THE CHURCH.

BY ELIC1A HUIST.

Tn taking upon myself to address the
sisters of the Church, I do it with a view
-of stimulating and encouraging the host
of feelings to exist among them: but
by no means do 1 claim to be a dictator.
I 'merely suggest what I consider would
be a means of causing a more lively in-
terest in each other's society, by be-
coming more united in our eiforts and
extending a goodly , influence in the
inhere in which we are called to move.

When we take into consideration the
many opportunities and various ways
of usefulness, and the amount of good
that may be accomplished by us who
are engaged in so great a cause, some
of you may feel that it is not. our pre-
rogative to interfere in the least, or
to take one step towards building up
the kingdom of God. But I feel that
it is a mistaken idea to suppose that
we cannot perform acts that would en-
noble our character and position, when
we are so nearly allied to the brethren of
the Priesthood, and they are required
to use strenuous efforts to advance the
cause of God. Not that 1 would wish
it to be understood as suggesting any-
thing that would interfere with the
rights and duties of their high and holy
calling. But could we not cherish a
loving kindred spirit towards each
* other? If we cannot often meet

together in a social capacity, we may
individually retain a more saintly one-
ness, and imbibe in our thoughts and
sentiments a greater desire to bless and
build up — to strengthen and encourage,
and thus be a means of diffusing abroad
a more lively interest in the kingdom
of our Father, whose adopted ones we
claim to be. As we are all of one
family, let us be united in doing all
the good we can in our sphere ; for we
are able to accomplish much, if wo feel
like doing it. Also in our fellowship
meetings much depends upon the port
we take.

We have each a mission to perform,
if we were only to consider what re-
sponsibility there is devolving upon us in
every act we perform, though we are
the weaker vessels, and cannot be called
to bear off the higher responsibilities
which rest upon those holding the oracles
of God. But can we not, dear sisters,
carry with us a pure sentiment of kindly
feeling, and assist to create a livery
spirit and devoted earnestness to the
cause ; and I need not natae one great
privilege we have, when there is ample
opportunity afforded us for testifying
and exercising the gifts of the Spirit.
How many times have we been forcibly
struck by the manifest power of God m
our meetings ! 1 n many instances, what.

Digitized by

Google

"278

ADDRESS TO THE 8ISTEBS OF TUB CHURCH.

~we have participated in these holy
inspirations, our testimony may have
caused some who have been present to
reflect more deeply and closely upon
what has been said. The same also
may be done on other occasions, while
in company with our neighbour or
driendly visitor, who may, perhaps, have
-called on us, desiring the loan of some
hook. Here we may have the chance of
conversing upon the principles of the
. Ohurch, and disseminating the works of
iihe Church also ; and who knows but that
in this way we may be the means of
^convincing some honest lover of truth,
-and showing him or her the way of
salvation ! Many instances of this
sort might be mentioned. But suffice
it to say, I deem it unusual on my
part to give such instructions to my
sisters, who may fully understand their
duties and the various ways of useful-
ness, and how they can be best engaged
in spreading a knowledge of the truth,
by inviting others to attend the assem-
blies and congregations of the Saints ;
"for " a word in season, how good it is"
to those who will take a hint !

We will now turn our attention to the
domestic circle. Much depends upon us
as to what kind of a spirit prevades our
homes. As wives, we can create a little
heaven there. When the head of a
family returns from his daily toil, he
necessarily looks for those comforts and
attentions which it is unnecessary for
me to mention, as all know best for
themselves how to please and comfort
those whom it is their privilege to look
ap to. There are also weighty respon-
sibilities resting upon those of us that
-are mothers — namely, the proper train-
ing and instructing of our children.
We cannot begin too early to instil
into their young minds the principles of
the Church. I am frequently led into
a train of serious reflections by questions
asked by my little ones concerning the
43hurch. Their questions often arouse
me to a sense of my duty. We are,
dear sisters, held accountable to God
for the manner in which we bring up
4mr children. Do our little ones ever
hear us pray for them P Do they ever

see us kneeling by their little beds?—
for it is those children who hear their
mothers pray who are most likely to
pray for themselves.

I would also suggest another source
of good to our children — namely, that
of reading aloud to them, as often as we
possibly can, the works of the Church.
Their young minds are very susceptible,
and impressions are soon made, and
their interest easily excited to that
which is good. Take, for instance, an
idea lately suggested by some of the
brethren of the Priesthood — that of
travelling to Zion at the rate of three
miles a penny: so every penny saved
will bring you three miles nearer to
Zion ! If we can only get our diildren
to take an interest in this, it would
check that natural desire so prevalent
amongst tnem of running away to buy
cakes and sweets that only do them an
injury.

I will mention one incident that came
under my notice, for the encouragement
of the young who may read it, or hear
it read. Two little ones belonging to a
family in the Church had twopence
each given them, and they came ninning
to their mother, with joy beaming in
their faces — "Oh, mother, we are six
miles nearer to Zion ! Please to put it in
the box." It would be well to en-
courage our children in this new move-
ment. Although simple as it seems,
our youngest children may in soma
instances be travelling three miles a
day, and in a very easy way too, by
putting their pence in a saving-box to
their own credit. This will cause them
and us to have the interest of the
§ gathering at heart.

I trust that these few scattered
remarks, written in all humility, will be
received in the same kindly feeling;
and I hope some more talented sister
will take up the subject, as by that
course we may greatly benefit each
other. I do not wish any to think thai
I profess to be perfect. Alas, no. I
feel my own imperfections, but am en-
deavouring to overcome those things
which I know to be a hindrance to mj
progress in the kingdom of God.

Another Religious Sect. — A new religious sect has begun to develop itself in the
northern part of Denmark ; its believers claiming that there are five Gods in one, and
calling themselves *• Pentarians,"

Digitized by

Google

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH. 279

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

( Continued from page 2M.J

Rejoice, 6 Israel ! Your friends who have
been murdered for the truth's sake in the
persecution shall triumph gloriously in the
celestial world, while their murderers shall
welter for ages in torment, even until they
shall have paid the uttermost farthing. I
say this for the benefit of strangers.

I have a father, brothers, children, and
friends who have gone to a world of spirits.
They are only absent for a ^moment. They
are in the spirit, and we shall soon meet
again. The time will soon arrive when the
trumpet shall sound. When we depart, we
shall hail our mothers, fathers, friends, and
all whom we love, who have fallen asleep in
Jesus. There will be no fear of mobs, per-
secutions, or malicious lawsuits and arrests ;
but it will be an eternity of felicity.

A question may be asked — " Will mothers
have their children in eternity P" Yes !
yes ! Mothers, you shall have your children ;
for they shall have eternal life, for their debt
js paid. There is no* damnation awaiting
them, for they are in the spirit. But as the
child dies, so shall it rise from the dead, and
be for ever living in the learning- of God. It
will never grow ; it will still be the child, in
the same precise form as it appeared before
it died out of its mother's arms, but possess-
ing all the intelligence of a God. Children
dwell in the mansions of glory and exercise
power, but appear in the same form as
when on earth. Eternity is full of thrones,
upon which dwell thousands of children,
reigning on thrones of glory, with not one
cubit added to their stature.

I will leave this subject here, and make a
few remarks on the subject of baptism. The
baptism of water, without the baptism of
fire and the Holy Ghost attending it, is of
no use : they are necessarily and inseparably
connected. An individual must be born of
water and the spirit in order to get into the
kingdom of God. In the German, the text
bears me out the same as the revelations
which I have given and taught for the last
fourteen years on that subject. I have the
testimony to put in their teeth. My testimony
lias been true all the time. You will find it
in the declaration of John the Baptist.
^[Reads from the German.] John says, " I
baptize you with water ; but when Jesus
comes, who has the power (or keys), he
shall administer the baptism of fire and the
Holy Ghost." Great God ! where is now all
the sectarian world ? And if this testimony
is true, they are all damned as clearly as
anathema can do it. / know tlie text is true.
I call upon all you Germans who know that

it is true to say, Aye. [Loud shouts of
44 Aye."]

Alexander Campbell, how are you going
to save people with water alone ? For John
said his baptism was good for nothing without
the baptism of Jesus Christ. 44 Therefore,
not leaving the principles of the doctrine of
Christ, let us go on unto perfection, not
laying again the foundation of repentance
from dead works, and of faith toward God,
of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on
of hands, and of resurrection of the dead,,
and of eternal judgment. And this will we
do, if God permit." (Heb. 6th chap., 1st to
3rd v.)

There is one God, one Father, one Jesus,
one hope of our calling, one baptism. Ail
these three baptisms only make one. Many
talk of baptism not being essential to salva-
tion ; but this kind of teaching would lay
the foundation of their damnation. I have
the truth, and am at the defiance of the
world to contradict me, if they can.

I have now preached a little Latin, a
little Hebrew, Greek, and German; and- 1
have fulfilled all. I am not so big a fool as
many have taken me to be. The Germans
know that I read the German correctly.

Hear it, all ve ends of the earth — all ye
priests, all ye sinners, and all men. Repent I
repent! Obey the Gospel. Turn to God;
for your religion won't save you. and you
will be damned. I do not say how long.
There have been remarks made concerning
all men being redeemed from hell ; but I
say that those wjio sin against the Holy
Ghost cannot be forgiven in this world or in
the world to come : they shall die the second
death. Those who commit the unpardon-
able sin are doomed to Qnolom^-to dwell in
hell, worlds without end. As they concoct
scenes of bloodshed in this world, so they
shall rise to that resurrection which is as the
lake of fire and brimstone. Some shall rise
to the everlasting burning of God ; for God
dwells- in everlasting burnings ; and some
shall rise to the damnation of their own
filthiness, which is as exquisite a torment as
the lake of fire and brimstone.

I have intended my remarks for all, both
rich and poor, bond and free, great and
' small. I have no enmity against any man.
I love you all ; but I hate "some of your deeds.
I am your best friend ; and if persons miss
their mark, it is their own mult. If I
reprove a man, and he hates me, he is a
fool ; for I love all men, especially these my
brethren and sisters.

I rejoice in hearing the testimony of my

Digitized by

2$0

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

aged friends. You don't know me : you never
knew my heart. No man knows my history.
I cannot tell it : I shall never undertake it.
I don't blame any one for not believing- my
history. If I had not cq erienced what I
haVe, r could not have believed it myself. I
never did harm any man since 1 was born
into the world. My voice is always for peace.

I cannot lie down until all my work is
finished. I never think any evil, nor do
anything to the harm of my fellow -man.
When 1 am called by the trrano of the arch-
angel and Weighed in the balance, to it will
all know me then.'- I a id no more. God
bless you all ! Amen.

Choi r sang a hym n at h nl f-p a:- 1 fi vo. p .m .

Dismissed with benediction.

Monday, tf. — At three-fin alters past 0,
a.m., President -Joseph S-u.ith took his
.seat on the stand and re* pi; a<ted toe choir
to sing a hymn. He call< d u;am Klder
B. Young to read 1- t C.ednchiuny, 15th
chap., as ills own lungs va>re injured.

Khlor B.Young said — To civ [y.uo the
subject of Pr 'ddent Smith's discourse
vestcrdny, I shall commence by rending
the 13th chapter of 1st Corhuhiuns
from an old Kilde : and re pi >ud \V.\Y\
Phelps to read it.

Pray or by KKV? P. You -g. after
which rbe -da ' : sang a hymn.

President - T .■ ; *ph Smnh said: — It is m*{;
as imp'v.sibi,} iot* nie to eon I inn- e the rabjeet
of yo'-erday as toru^e the dead, ;iyiang<
are »*. <ar:i out. There is a time m all
and 1 must wait. I will give h \:\>, and
leave ihe time to tho-e who tan ma be" you
hear, and will r-ondnae the sedra at of my
dacoar v arae oiher rime. 1 van: to make
a proel unamai to da-. Elders. 1 van jd
you io stay, in oruT that 1 aught ir dee tins
pre Lrar.a'ion. Y m know very v. ell that ihe
Lord ha > ltd this Cbureh by rcvelad-n. I
have another revelation in rcl' lion to
economy in the Church — a great, grand, and
glorious revelation. 1 shall not i e able to
dwell as largely u; on it now as at some
odu-r vinie; but i will give you the erst prin-
ciples. You know there has been great
discussion in relation to #ion — where it is.
and where the gathering of dn dispensa' ion
is. and which I am now going to (all you.
The Prophets hi ve spoken endwii'ten upon
it ; but 1 will make a proclamation that will
cover a broader ground. Ihe whole of
America is Zion itself, from north to south,
and is described by the Prophets, who declare
that it is the Zion. where the mountain of
the Lord should be. and that it should be in
the centre of the land. When Elders will
take up and examine the old prophecies in
the Bible, they will see it.

The declaration this morning is, that as
soon as the Temple and baptismal font are
prepared, we calculate to give the Elders of
Israel their washings and anointings, and
attend to those last and more impressive
ordinances, without which we cannot ob-
tain celestial thrones. 13ut there must be a
holy place prepared for that purpose. There
was a proclamation m ade during the time that
the foundation of *he Temple was laid to.
that effect, and there are provisions made
until the work is completed, so that, men
may receive their endowments. and be made
kings and priests unto the Most High God,
having nothing to do with temporal things,
but their whole time will be taken up with
th'ngs pertaining to ihe house of God.
j There must, however, be a place built ex-
| pre -dy for that purpose, and for men to be
| baptized for their dead. It must be built in
1 th.^ the central place ; for every man who
j w idies to save his father, mother, brothers,
j 'd.tei's. and frknds must go through all
th " ordinances for each cue of them sepa-
I rafi ly, the ><une as for himself, from baptism
1o ordinal ion. w a. -dinars and anointings, and
lveeiv - all the keys and powers of the
Prieaeood. the seme as for himself.

I have reeeivtd instructions from tfic
Lord that from henceforth, wherever the
EMnvs of Israel .shall build up churches
ami Branches unto the Lord throughout the
»S!ates. there .shall be a Stake of Zion. In
the great <*i t ' :s, as . Boston. New York, &c.,
{lure ah U he stakes. It is a glorious
prochm. alien, and 1 reserved it to the- last,
and de eared n be understood that this
work .'du.il commence after the wasliings,
anoia ings, and endowments have been
pt rfovmed here.

'Idie Lord has an established law in re-
lation to the matter : there must )>e a
particular spot for the salvation of our dead.
1 verily believe this will be the place; and
In nee men who want io save their dead can
co and bring their families, do their
work Ly being baptized and attending to the
other or, lira- nee for their dead, and then
may go back again to live and wait till they
go to receive their reward. I Ehall leave
my brethren to enlarge, on this subject : it
is my duty to t'ae h the doctrine. I would
teach it more fully — the spirit is willing,
but the ilesh is weak. God is not willing
to let me gratify you ; but i must teach the
Elders, and they should teach you. Go*
made Aaron to be the mouthpiece for the
children of Israel, and he will make me to
be God to you in his stead, and the Elders
to be mouth for me; and if you don't like
it. you must lump it. I have been giving"
Elder Adams instructions in some principles
to speak -to you ; and if he makes a mistake*
I wdl get up and correct him. ,

Digitized by

EDITOItlAli.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' M1LLEM1AL STAR.

Saturday, May 4, 1861.

UNNECESSARY FORMALITIES^HINTS TO PRESIDING ELDERS,

ALTHoruii the Gospel ha* boon preached in this country for a number of years,
there are many traditions and practices that yet cling to and are followed by the
officer* and members of the Church, whieh they would do well to throw aside.
These incorrect traditions of the people are among the greatest obstacles to be
contended with and overcome in h ading them in the pathway of progress. They
effectually fetter those who arc governed by them, and under their influence
practices that are wrong are made to appeal right and proper — unmeaning and
unnecessary forms and ceremonies are made to appear very important and
essential. An acquaintanceship with the truth does not always correct the evil
effects of such traditions. , Even the'n there are those who are occasionally startled
*<md shocked by the disregard evinced by the Elders from //ion for forms and
ceremonies which their tradition* have ltd them to believe are :i necessary part,
of true religion. They can scarcely admit the idea that the way they have been
accustomed to see the wor.-hip of God eonduetcd is not the correct way; and if
they should be so fortunate as to receive the Priesthood and to act in us duties,
they are continually inclined to fall into the old way and adopt the old practice*
that tradition has caused them to respect so highly. This is a diiliculty that
every man who has been reared in a sectarian church, believed a sectarian creed,
and adopted sectarian practices 'and forms, ha< had to contend with. It has been
more easily overcome by some than by others, because they have not become s*
much stereotyped.

A disposition to copy filter forms and fashions prevailing among other
^nominations is a fault among the Priesthood in this country. Many of the
Elders are so rigid in their adherence to them, that the Spirit of the Loi*d cannot
act through them with any degree of freedom. They are incased in a cast-iron
jacket, and the Spirit must be cribbed and confined to suit it. or it must leave
them ; and the consequence is, their meetings are cold and lifeless, differing but
little in the formality and constraint that prevail from the meetings of tho
denominations out of which they have been gathered. A chilling sensation w
experienced upon entering ana* hearing the meeting opened, which continues to
be felt throughout the entire meeting, making every person who knows anything
about the sweet and joyous influence of the Spirit of God feel exceedingly
uncomfortable. An Elder may occasionally break down this feeling, and obtain
liberty to speak and act as the Spirit dictates; but it is no easy matter. So far.
has this disposition to copy after other people in their form of worship prevailed,
that there ^re some presiding Elders who conduct their meetings so like them in
^Tery particular, that, unless the name of Latter-day Saint, or some other key-

Google

282

EDITORIAL.

word, were uttered by the speaker, they would scarcely be recognized as meetings
of the people of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In commencing .
their meetings, the hymn must be read through with a sanctimonious intonation
#f voice in the most formal and precise manner ; after which, the number and
page of the hymn must be again delivered, and the first verse repeated ; and in
some instances, we have been informed, even after this ceremony has been gone
through — after the congregation has stood up, and the choir has started the tune,
the hymn must be lined out again in measured cadence, the choir and congregation
singing it as it is delivered. All this might be necessary if there were no hymn-
books for the people to read ; but as hymn-books are plentiful, it seems like an
unnecessary waste of time. The singing finished and the congregation seated,
the presiding Elder then announces to the congregation that Elder So-and-so (calling
some Elder by name,) will engage in prayer. The Elder who is thus introduced
to the congregation then steps forward and prays. When the prayer is ended,
the ceremony of giving out and singing another hymn is again gone through in
a precisely similar manner as before. Then, if the District President or some
other President be present, he is probably asked if he would like to speak. If he
expresses the wish to do so. (intimating that he has no other business there than
to preach, having been sent from his home eight thousand miles distant for that
express purpose. ) before he has the opportunity of arising, he is introduced to the
congregation by a verbose eulogy from the Elder in charge, who does not fail to
inform the people that they may expect some very wonderful instruction now,
and that they must prepare for it, because Elder So-and-so, from Zion, one of the
Twelve Apostles, or it may be their District President, is about to address them.
He then sits down, looking very much as though he thought — There, I've done
all 1 can for you ; and now it only remains for you to fill the programme I have-
given, and it will meet expectation." Sometimes, however, even when the
-District or other President is present, having come expressly to speak to the
people, he is expected to sit still and listen to some local Elder who has been
selected some time previously to preach on that particular day on some particular
subject. No matter how many other opportunities he may have of speaking to the-
people, living in their midst as he doubtless does, he must occupy the time, forsooth,,
because he has been selected, or because the presiding Elder has an idea that thes-
visiting President would like to hear him ; and the President himself, who can only-
make a visit once in several weeks, is expected to be a patient listener. In the?
dismissal of the meeting, the same ceremony is gone through in giving out the
hymn, and in announcing to the congregation the name of the Elder who is to
dismiss them, as in the commencement of the meeting.

What do presiding Elders think are the feelings of the Presidency here, or of
the District or other Presidents, when they see such formalities observed and such
a course pursued as we have been alluding to P They feel that such forms and
ceremonies are offensive and hateful in the sight of both the Lord and his servants.
It was by observing such, and by seeking to conform to the views and mode of
worship of thoso that surrounded them, that incorrect practices, false doctrines,
and complete apostacy were introduced into the Church and among the people of
Ood in former days, tinder the specious idea of gaining an increased number of
converts, Satan is ever ready to suggest the practice of forms and ceremonies
that would not shock the prejudices of those who come to hear the Word, they
being so similar to their own. But it is by such insidious steps as these — small
deviations in the beginning — that he undermines the foundation of the people

Digitized by

EDITORIAL*.

283

*>f God or leads the people astray. It is our duty, and the duty of every Elder
who is called to preside throughout this Mission, to endeavour to correct these
©rils, and to teach the people that where the Spirit of the Lord exists there i*
freedom — freedom from constraint and formality — freedom from absurd forms
and every ceremony that would cramp the Spirit of the Lord, and prevent its
free flow and full enjoyment in the meetings of the Saints. Our duty is to teach
them that when the Spirit prevails in our meetings, though our mode of worship
may be peculiar to us and dissimilar to that of the rest of the world, the honest
an heart who come to hear will be convinced of the truth. We should also be
careful not to run to the opposite extreme, and, in the anxiety to abolish forms
and ceremonies in our meetings, dispense with order and proper and necessary
regulations. This would be an evil, betwixt which and the one we are alluding to
there would be bat little, if any, choice. Both are extremes, and both ought to be
avoided.

The Elders should give the Holy Spirit an opportunity to dictate how tht
meetings shall be conducted. If they are bound by fixed rules, or by arrange-
ments for speaking made a week previous, and strictly adhere \o thorn, they do
not give the Holy Spirit any opportunity to dictate any change that might be
really beneficial. Some are so stereotyped in this respect, that if it were
customary to devote certain meetings to the bearing of testimony by the Saints,
and an Elder whose right and duty it would be to teach the Saints were to step
in, they v would scarcely think they were doing right to permit the character of the
meeting to be changed and give it up to him to speak, because it had been
.customary for the Saints to occupy the time in testifying ! Now, we wish the
Elders to understand that the Holy Spirit is not governed pr fettered by prece-
dent, nor by any fixed rules which would make the character of a meeting
unalterable ; neither is this the case with any servant of God who is governed by
its influence. When Presiding Elders follow its dictation, they will conduct their
meetings in a manner that will be beneficial to those assembled, whether it be
an preaching, singing, praying, or testifying. They will be pliable in their
feelings ; and when they perceive a fault or an error, (and if they follow the
dictation of the Spirit of God, it will show this unto them,) they will spare no pains
to throw it aside, and do better. Let every presiding Elder, then, dispense' with
unmeaning forms in his meetings, and seek, by counselling with his President,
to comprehend the right mode of conducting meetings. It is for this purpose
that they are placed to preside, and the man who does not counsel with his
President, but seeks to act independently, fails to honour the Priesthood. Let
no man imagine that he is lessening himself by respecting and honouring his
President, or seeking his counsel. On the contrary, he is taking a course to
increase his own dignity and influence. Presidents of Branches should learn that
their rights are not trampled upon when those who are over them suggest how a
meeting shall be conducted. Indeed, every one should know that the Branch
over which he presides is comprised in the field over which his Conference and
District Presidents preside, and that the District President or the Presidency of
the Mission have really sufficient Priesthood and authority to 'enable them to
dictate, when they are present, how'a Branch meeting shall be conducted. They
are not risking much by asking them to dictate how the meeting shall be con*
ducted, or to take charge of it ; for it is more than likely that, being in their
legitimate field and in the discharge of their legitimate duty, the Spirit of the
Lord will manifest to them the proper course to be taken.

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

Departure. — The clipper-ship Underwriter cleared on the 22nd inst., and sa3e<f
on the evening of the 23rd, from this port for New York, having 624 Saint* on
board, under the Presidency of Elder Milo Andrus. assisted by Elders Homer
Duncan and . W. Penrose as Counsellors.

President Andrus left the Valley in the fall of 1859, in company with the
Elders who started for Europe at that time. Since his arrival here, he has
travelled and preached in various parts of the Mission, doing good, and firing up
the Saints to increased faith and righteousness. On the 1st of January last he
was appointed to the Presidency of Vie Birmingham District, where a warm and
deep feeling of love sprang up in the hearts of the Saints towards him during the
j»hort time he had the charge of the District. His rapidly failing health com-
pelled him to leave for Zion. much to our regret; but he carries with him the
love and blessings of thousands of Saints, among whom he has laboured effectively
for good.

Elder Duncan left the Valley in the Spring of 1860 ; and since his arrival here
he has laboured with energy and success. On the 1st of January last he wak
appointed to the Presidency of the Warwickshire Conference, where he speedilj
gained the good feelings and love of the faithful Saints. He, too, has been com-
pelled to leave, in consequence of his failing health, having suffered more or less
from sickness since his arrival.

Elder John Skerry, who started from the Valley at the same time as Elder
Duncan, likewise left in the Underwriter, his age and increasing infirmities
necessitating his return home.

The following Pastors and Conference Presidents, who have for a number of
years laboured in the ministry in these lands, have gladly availed themselves of
the privilege of going to Zion, and have sailed on the Underwriter with the blessing
of the Presidency here — namely, Elders William Moss, John Cook, George Teasdale,
Willet Harder, Thomas Wallace, Joseph Stanford, W. T. Cromar, William Halls,
John Reed, Richard Aldridge, Joseph Silver, James D. Hirst, Charles Turner,
and John H. Kelson. Elder E. W. Tullidge. for a length of time connected with
this office, likewise accompanied them.

Presidents Lyman, Rich, and Cannon visited the ship on Sunday, the 21 st, as
she lay in the river, and held a meeting, giving the Saints their parting blessing
and many choice instructions relative to their journey.

* The unanimity and good feeling which pervaded the company, with the joy
expressed on the countenances of the people at their long-looked-for deliverance
having arrived, tended to make a fine and intelligent-looking company doubly-
interesting ; and we have no doubt that, under the wise direction of President
Andrus, their ocean trip will prove both agreeable and instructive.

May God bless them in their journeyings onwards to the home of the Saints in
the valleys of the mountains !

Progress of" the Work is the United^ States. — In a letter from Elder
Croxall, dated New York, April 6th, we learn that the Saints in that region aw
having good times. Strangers are crowding to their meetings, and many are
taking deep interest in the oause. The work of baptism has commenced:
President Pratt and Elder Jones are labouring assiduously in the neighbourhood
of New York, and President Snow in Boston.

Digitized by

REPORT OF DISTRICT MKETING.

REPORT OP DISTRICT MEETING

HELD AT SUNDERLAND, MARCH 31st, 1861.

In the morning, a Council of the
Priesthood assembled ; and, after winging
and prayer, Presidents Amasa M. Lyman
and Charles C. Rich, addressed the
Council on the influence and powers of
the holy Priesthood, and on the neces-
sity and importance of knowledge and
union in the Priesthood, to qualify them
as ministers and faithful representatives
of the Most High God. The richness
and power of their instructions seemed
to inspire the souls of all present. The
meeting closed with singing and prayer.

The afternoon's meeting was well
attended by both Saints and strangers ;
and. after singing and prayer, the Presi-
dents of Conferences were called upon
to represent their fields of labour.

Elder Samuel Hargraves reported the
Durham Conference as being in a pros-
perous condition. The meetings were
well attended by inquirers after truth,
who manifest a very favourable dis-
position towards the work/ Some had
been baptized, and there was a prospect
of more baptisms shortly. The Saints
and people* were hospitable and kiud to
him. He realized great joy and satis-
faction in his labours among the people.
He desired the aid of God's Spirit to
help him in the discharge of his duties,
that he might be a blessing to the
people, and the means of extending the
kingdom of God on tin* earth.

Elder William Dallin reported the
Newcastle-on-Tyne Conference as being
in a good, thriving condition, the Saints
in general feeling desirous to live their
religion faithfully. Meetings in different
parts of the Conference were well
attended by strangers, who exhibited
good feelings towards the cause of truth.
Baptisms were frequent. Prospects every
way promise the accomplishment of a
good work this season. He prayed for
the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit
in the performance of his duties before
tho Lord, desiring to be indeed a
minister of truth ami righteousness.

Elder Henry W. Barnett reported the
Carlisle Conference as being in £ood
condition. In general, the Saints rejoice
in their religion. Prospects of baptism
were good. He desired that the spirit
an4 power of his calling might rest

upon him in his labours to build up the
kingdom of God on the earth.

Elder John S. Gleason (District Presi-
dent,) expressed great satisfaction in
the representation of the Conferences,
and believed there was every indication
that a great and a good work will be
accomplished through the undivided
labours of the Priesthood and Saints
composing the District. He prayed for
the assistance of the Spirit of God to
enable him to work the works of right-
eousness on the earth.

President Charles C. Rich aro>«* and
proposed the* authorities of the Church.
He moved that we uphold and sustain
President Brighani Young :is Prophet.
Seer, and Revelator of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
throughout the world ; and Presidents
Heber C. Kimball and Daniel II. Wells
as his First and Second Counsellors. Ho
also moved that we uphold and sustain
the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ;
and that we uphold and sustain the
organization of Priesthood as it now
exists in the Church.
Carried unanimously.
Elders Lyman and Rich gave >ome
excellent instructions to the Saints on
the propriety of possessing a good, clear
understanding of the kingdom of God,
the design and efficacy of the Lord's
atonement, how Christendom compre-
hends it. aud the light in which the
Saints should regard this sublime subject.

All hearts present seemed filled with
happiness and the Spirit of God. The
meeting closed with singing and prayer.

The evening's meeting was exceed-
ingly well attended 1 by a respectable
i company of truth-seeker*. After singing
and prayer. Elder Amasa >L Lyman in
an animated stylo addressed the audience
on the establishment of the kingdom of
j God on the earth in these Jast days,
according to the Prophets.

The District meeting closed with sing-
; ing and benediction by Rider Lyman,
; and the Saints dispersed, satisfied at
having been blessed with a rich treat.

j On the following Monday evening a
! grand tea-party was held m the same
chapel. Elders Amasa >f. Lyman and

Digitized by

Google

COBBESPONDBNCB.

C. C. Rich were present. The sisters
had provided an excellent tea. After
partaking freely of the bounties that
graced the tables, the evening went off
amartly with songs, plays, and recita-
tions, interspersed with appropriate

speeches from Presidents Lvman anc?
Rich. The order and entertainments of
the evening were highly satisfactory to
all persons present.

H. W. Barnett, Reporter.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

London, April 16, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, —

I am happy to inform you that the
cause of truth is onward in this District.
The confidence of the Saints in the great
Latter-day Work and in the Priesthood
is growing stronger every day. Many
who had lost confidence and turned away
from the work have returned, and are
now rejoicing in the truth ; and others
are attending the meetings, which is an
evidence that they yet love the truth.
They and others are still coming into
the Church. There were three baptiz6d
"here last Sunday ; three recently in the
'Essex Conference ; and twelve in the
Kent' Conference. There is quite an
inquiry among strangers ; many of
whom are attending our meetings ; and
aeveral respectable gentlemen have re-
cently purchased books — the Star and
other works upon the doctrines of the
Church. It appears that the signs of
the times, as relate to the nations of
the earth, and the singular and unpre-
cedented movements of the Saints in
gathering from all nations to their
mountain home, where they are be-
coming a mighty nation — a united and
I'.appv people, are attracting more in-
tensely the attention of those who feel
interested in coming events ; and they
are desirous of becoming acquainted with
the principles that are producing those
great results.

We are now in the midst of our emi-
gration business, which occupies the
most of our time at present, as there are
about 120 going to Zion this season from
the District When this is over, we shall I
resume our labours in dispensing the
word.

The brethren who are labouring with
jne in the District feel spirited in the
cause, and desire to do all in their

power to extend the principles of the
Gospel to all who love the truth. Thua
I feel encouraged in the onward progress
of the work.

1 am, as ever, your brother in the
Gospel,

John Brown.

WALES.
Cardiff, April 13, 1861.
President T. E. Jeremy.

Dear Brother, — The work is rolling
steadily on in this Conference. Since
your last visit to Cardiff, we have bap-
tized eleven persons, four of whom are
new members ; six more are to be bap-
tized to-night ; and there are good pros-
pects of several more shortly. There ia
considerable interest awakened up in
the minds of the people, a great deal of
inquiry made, and questions asked con-
cerning " Mormonism." The brethren*
while following their dailv labour, and
during their meal-times, nave all thev
can do to answer the many and varied,
questions put to them by their fellow -
workmen, and not unfrequently by their
employers also. I have visited Severn!
very respectable families recently, who
are very favourably disposed. Prospects
bid fair for a rich harvest. I am satis-
fied, by the testimony j>f the Spirit
within me, also by the expressed feel-
ings of the Saints generally, that if we
are one in spirit and united in all oar
efforts, according to the counsels of our
beloved Prophet Brigham, and also of
our brethren who have the immediate
charge of the interests of the Church
in these lands, a great and a mighty
work will be done. Truth will spread,
and triumph, Israel be gathered toge—
ther, and the kingdom and government
of our God be established upon tl\e
earth, no more to be plucked up 0r
thrown down, for ever.

Digitized by

Google

The emigration from this Conference
•lias created quite an excitement here ;
and while on the one hand the work of
<}od is prospering, so also is Satan, our
common foe, on the other hand, busily
employed in his old business, making
lies, engendering strife, and hawking
jdander. We have large handbills ex-
posed in the windows here, containing
wonderful disclosures— " Mormonism—
Brigham Young and his sixty-eight
wives — children put to death — women
tiaved alive — Danite band— wholesale
robberies, rapine, and murder !" Yes,
brother, all hell is in a stew ! It only
requires a lktle more of the right kind
of foe to make it boil over ! But ail
will be well with the Saints of God, who
love him and keep his commandments.
I remain yours truly,

G. G. Bywater.

Notthighnm T April 18, 1861. *
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother,— This is to inform you
that we are in tolerable good health
and first-rate spirits. There is a slow,
but steady increase of the work of God
m this District at present. Numbers of
the old Saints that have been in the
background are beginning to come out
<of their hidingplaces to testify of the
truths that have been revealed in the last
days. We have, in the last eight weeks,
baptized 50 in this District ; and a first-
rate spirit is being manifested gene-
rally among the Saints. Many strangers
Also listen respectfully to our preachings.
Some have taken books from us to read ;
and they all, so far as I have been able
as yet to learn, are very greatly dis-
. appointed in our principles.

summary. 287

We have in this District three Travel-
ling Elders, who are very energetic and
prompt in all their duties. The Con-
ference Presidents have also responded
with pleasure to every suggestion of
mine, which renders my mission plea-
sant, and brings the old adage to my
mind— " Where, there is union, there in
strength/'

We feel that a good work is to be done
here, during the ensuing summer. The
Saints are beginning to take an interest
in their meetings, and in having their
children blessed. In fac t, they all begin
to feel nerved, up in the spirit of truth ;
and I rejoice to be with t>uch a people.
They do not let us suffer for anything
that they can do for jus. Yet there are
some here who. having been excom- 1
municated from the Church, feej rather
cool, from the fact that they think they-
have been hastily and inconsiderately-
dealt with. This £ doubt not. But
that is no reason for their being
lost for ever. I am therefore striving
to exhort them to return to the fold of
Christ, that they may partake of the
blessings of the kingdom. Many are
doing so, and I feel that many mora
will return in a short time. I wish to
see thein doing so, for they are good
people. I feel also to pray for all such
that may have been overtaken in faults,
and lost their standing in this glorious
kingdom, that they may have power to
"speedily return, in order for them to
be participators in the blessings of the
same.

May God bless you and all the faithful
of his children, is the constant prayer of
Your brother in Christ,

Jamks Bkowx, 3rd.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

\ 3LER1CAN .—Civil war has at length commenced. General Beauregard, on the approach
- of the Government vessel, demanded the surrender of Fort Sumter. On Anderson's
refusal Fort Moultrie commenced firing with two guns at four a.m. on the 12th. Fort
Sumter replied vigorously. Seven Charleston batteries then operated against Sumter,
and the troops commenced swarming into Charleston. It was stated that 20,000 had
<*>ncentrated there when the steamer lea. An extra session of the Southern Congress had
been called The Southern Government had called on each secession State to furnish
3 000 troops except Florida, which will furnish 1,000. The citizens of Arizona,
have in Convention, voted themselves out of the Union. A resolution has* been
introduced in the Louisiana Convention, declaring in favour of free trade between the
WA«teni and Confederate States. Fortifications, arsenals, lighthouses, and revenu©
^ters belonging to Louisiana are to be handed over to the Confederate Government*

Digitized by

58^ POETRY*.' — ADtfltESSKS.

Crvil War has opened in Now Granada. Thd town of Buenaventura, New Gi'anada, hn*
been captured hy the Liberals. The barracks were burned, and 20 men perished in the*
flames ; 10 were killed in the streets, and 54 persons, of whom 32 were wounded, were
token. The Liberals lo?>t 10 or 12 killed, aud had '30 wounded. The Hon. John M'Lean.
who was for thirty years Associate -Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States
died ar Cincinium on the Irli ult.

* <tknkiui.. The dimensions !>etween the Northern and Southern States of America ar<»<
calling- into existence various enterprises for the cultivation of direct commercial relations
between Enprland and the Confederate States. Steamers are now advertised to sail
lietween Liverpool and Charleston, and a company is heinur formed for the purjose of
connecting this pon with New Orleans by a line of first-class steam vessels. An official
conununication from the Turkish Ambassador in I/mdon to the Foreign Office announces
that, on April Kith an Ottoman naval force established a blockade of the porta* and of all
the coasts of Albania, from Dura/zo, which is included in the said blockade, to the
Austrian frontier. . The nl>dic,itioti of Ferdinand, the last Emperor of Austria, as Kinic ot*
Hungary, was announced to both houses on the (5th ult. Hie Consuls of the different
European Powers resident at Mostar have, in pursuance of instructions from Constanti-
nople, summoned the Montenegrins and insurgents to raise the siege of Niksiki. ThW
tovui. which contains a population of 4.000. is reduced to the last extremity, and fears art?
entertained that cruelties may be exercised upon the inhabitants. The state of siege in
the city of Fiume has been raised. All the towns of Poland are now militarily occupied,
Arrest* rpntinue. and the colleges of Warsaw and Kalisch are close<i. In the manufacturing
town of Lodz, the Merman manufacturer!! entirely demolished the factories of their Jewish
competitors, and broke into their houses on the night of the 2lst. The peasants in the
immediate neighbourhood came to the assistance of the Jews, and a bloody conflict ensued.
<Jue person whs killed and many were wounded. 'Thirteen students have been expelled
from tho University in Nome As a fresh proiest, the tricolour flag has been hoisted by
the students at the. I niversity. A democratic movement has taken place at Cosenza, iii
Calabria, and the municipality have been expelled. The trial of those concerned in tho
conspfracy in Naples will shortly take place, the number of persons to be tried being ISO.
Famine prevails at Pekin. and the insurgents are gaining ground. The accounts from the
districts suffering from famine in British India are of a still more heart-rending character.

POETRY,

Kwo» t.Sp" viz in .ill her ylor\.
With hlosximrs fr.«m on hiuh.

tome to eomtort wry heart,
Mhi gladden eury t;>f-

<Y.lil Winter. su-m ami frowning,
Has left in fi»r awhhV

Sntton-hi-,\shfteld.

SPRING.

An«l Sol, ill all his beauty.
Makes glad creation smile.

'Hie streamlets lately fro/.en
In peace their course pursue:

The buds and opening blossoms
Receive the morning dew.

Tuomas TaORTE-

AiantHssKS.— Thomas K. Jeremy, ft. Duke Street, Swansea.

William II. Dame. 12*. OldHeld Koad, Salfonl, Manchester.

William (.liUon, euro of Ceorge Sims, 2*, St. Phillip's str^t, Hath Road, Cheltenham.

CONTBNTS.

Self-flelp 27S 31st. ISiJI - 283

Hie Word ot Wisdom *7fl t'orrespondeiin\~Kngland : Letter from KWer

Addrtv> to tin- siM» r> ot the tjinrch ?77 John Brown.— Ijetter from KlderG O.Bvwater.

Histor\ of Joseph Sinirli i73 — Utter Iron i Llder Jajncs Btovto, :iid"~ *8<7

Kditoiial.— rutin- >ss>j\ I »Ti»i;ihti»*s — Hints to S;uiim;.r\ of NVus and Passing K\eut.s Ht<7

Presiding I-'hiers.— J Vnartnri*.— Pioi;:vss >A ' tlie I'-n r-v.— "spring ^XK

Work in the l itited states 281 A<|iir--s*es , \ *)at

tyepoct Of District Mirtinc, Minderhuid. Mareli

LIVEKIMol,:

j:i>iim>. imuntkh. ami rrm.isiiKii j;v t.K<>u..K cannon, i-.*, isli.v.t^n.

L<>XLM>\:

i\JU SALE AT TUK I. AT I I- l.-l'A V SAINTS' BOOK I>K.»i»T. :!«t. l-'LUHKNVL STREET, t RO*S bldHETt
m lsT.lX<it\»N^ AND ALL MOOKSKLUCRS.

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR*

4 A now shaft tome even to fto ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with tke nations : *«WjJ|
plead with aUtUsh ; he wiU give them that are wicked to Vie sword, saUk tk» Xwrf."— Jmaimulh.

Ho. IS, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, May 11, 1861.

Price One Penny.

DESIGN OF GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN.

BT PRESIDENT AM AS A M. LYMAN.

. In treating the subject named above,
we ma}* assume what at first may ap-
pear to be unwarrantable, and, in the
opinion of some, untrue ; but we hone
our readers in search for truth will
travel with us in the spirit of honest in-
quiry, and in candour dismiss for the
tuno all preconceived opinions that
would prejudice our search for the
truth in relation to the subject under
consideration.

In order that we may hare the sub-
ject (in relation to which we desire to

S resent the truth in the* most clear and
icid manner possible,) fairly before our
minds, we ►hall assume that all the
revelations of the Gospel thn^have been
mode to man have had but one object, and
that the building up of the kingdom of
God on th? earth : for the accomplish -
£ient pf which they have ever been
made, ah shown in the history of God's
•dealings with man. first in the constitu-
tion of the race, and then his provisions
for the educational development of
thane constitutional endowments.
> While we consider the constitution of
man as reflecting the purposes of Him
who was* its author, we discover in the
ttronc intensity of affectionate regard
that may be developed, and which ho
many entertain for those of his kind when
|*H>cinted with tbrnt, that man was

made and constituted for the enjoyment
of social happiness, and that to "result;
from a just and truthful comprehension
of the relationship he sustains to God
and his purposes, for the accomplish-
ment of which he lives on the earth*
Thus comprehending the truth in re-
lation to his Father in heaven, there is*
established between them a condition of?
harmonious existence, which is in it-
self the beginning of happiness, as it
is of peace, and the end of antagonism
and strife.

From the study jof the constitution o€
man, we not only discover that he is
adapted to the development and en>
joyment of happiness, but also an dl-
bounded increase in the knowledge of
God. the constituent principle of eternal
life and glory.

Such is man, with his constitutional
endowments a* we find him east out to
our view on tho ever-onward-j*uing
billow* of time, to minister ? to thtr
creation and increase of the kingdom*
government, or Church of Christ.

That it was the design of God to
unite all the family of man. as hi*
children, under one and the same govern-
ment, i* ovident from this fact-— that her
' gave thorn tho same constitutional en-
dowment*, thus preparing them alike/
for the enjoyment of similar happing*.

Digitized by

Google

290

DESIGN OF GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OP MAN.

or suffering, or misery, thus evincing to
the reflecting mind not only' his pur-
poses in relation to man, but that those
purposes were universal for man's hap-
piness and glory.

That our Christian Bible-believing
friends may be satisfied that the revela-
tions of God's "will and purposes as
revealed in the book of man's constitu-
tion are consistent with the revelations
of the Scriptures, we will now for a
brief moment direct our search to them
for the indications of God's work and
purposes as there reflected.

Toe first to which we would direct
the inquirer is found in the declaration
of God, by himself, in relation to
man, and the purpose of his creation
as expressed in trie Scriptures. In
Genesis i. 26 — 29, for example, we learn
that man was not only made in the
likeness and image of God, but that he
was commanded, on being presented
with the earth, his new inheritance and
home, to be fruitful, and to multiply,
replenish, and subdue it, and to have
dominion over all -the living existences
upon it. This view of the early history
oi man's introdution to the earth pre-
sents it to the mind as the inauguration
of an enterprise that was transcendency
great and glorious, as embracing the
vast future of human existence for the
infinite and eternal increase of the
family or kingdom of God.

Hence, on man's introduction to
the earth, and God's first instruction to
him, we find him commanded to have
dominion over, as well as possession of,
his new heritage.

Bat one purpose can be seen, and
that, for the development of one
family of mankind, all "made of
of one blood to dwell on all the
face of the earth," to be all united in
the bonds of one social polity, thus lay-
ing the foundation, in the arrangement of
his purposes, for the creation of thai
kingdom which should ultimately exv
tend its rule and government over the
entire world as a universal empire of
peace.

£>ftll following the chain of history,
we mid the Lord addressing the same
instruction to Noah and his family,
when * they, by the destruction of all
others, became the sole representatives
of humanity in the earth, as unto Adam
under, similar. wrcumsUnces on hi* first

introduction to his new inheritance
saying, " Be fruitful, and multiply, an<I
replenish the earth." (Genesis ix. 1.)

Continuing, we find God making a
covenant with Abraham that he should
become the father of many nations, and
that kings should come out of him, thus
evincing his disposition to still prosecute
his kingly enterprise in the development
of the materials of which to construct
his mighty empire. Still pursuing this
policy, we find a renewal of these cove-
nants in Isaac, and their confirmation
unto Jacob, for a law, and with Israel
an everlasting covenant.

The promise made to Abraham, that
in his seed all the nations of the earth
should be blessed, (as recorded in Genesis
xxii. 18,) makes the dealing of God with
Israel to a certain extent his dealing
with the nations of the world, as by hid
ordinance Israel became the medium
through which they were to receive their
blessings and salvation in the promised
Messiah and chosen seed.

The next point in the history is that
which discovers to us Israel in bondage
in Egypt, where long and grievous suf-
fering seemed likely to cause their de-
struction and extinction from the earth.
In this emergency the Lord was mindful
of his promises to his people; and,
through Moses, a deliverance mighty
and glorious was ministered to the
enslaved, degraded, and wretched thou-
sands of Israel ; and this rude multitude
was led into the wilderness. Some,
doubtless, may think this an objectless
act of charity beyond the mere relief
from present oppression and suffering..
To such we would suggest that they
consult the history of the transactions
as given in the .Scriptures on this
point, recorded in Exodus xix. 4,
5, 6, where we have a plain and
unequivocal declaration that the obe-
dience of Israel was to be followed
by their becoming 4 4 a kingdom of priests
and an holy nation."

From the foregoing, but one inference
would be drawn, which is, that God
designed, in his dealings with Israel,
to develop a nation and a government on
a scale commensurate with the numeri-
cal greatness he had promised to his
servants the Patriarchs, in the countless
multiplicity and infinite increase of their
posterity, and in this way secure the
establishment of e universal kingdom*

Digitized by Google

DESIGN OP GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN.

'irhoae rule and government should
extend to all the nations of the world.

Having followed the history of God's
dealings with Israel until they entered
upon their wilderness journey ings to the
land of promise, his revelations and
dealings with them have reached an
amplitude that afforded a more full
and lucid exposition of the principles
inculcated in tne prosecution and accom-
plishment of his great work.

To lead inquirers to the truth in
reference to these matters, we will call
their attention to the consideration of
the concise history of the dealings of
God with Israel, as given by the Prophet
Eickiel in his 20th chapter, where he
paya, in the 11th verse — " And I gave
them my statutes, and shewed them my
judgments which if a man do, he shall
even live m them/ 1

We have here not only the un-
equivocal promise of life, on condition
■ of obedienee to the statutes and judg-
ments revealed; but the question is
involved, What weTe the nature of the
statutes and judgments there given, that
ty their observance man should live P
The Scriptures afford U3 but one, and
only one answer to this, given in the
following declaration : — " But is now
made manifest by the appearing of our
ftariour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished
death, and hath brought life and
immortality to light through the Gospel."
<2 Timothy i. 10.)

From this we learn the very important
troth that life and immortality were
"brought to light through the Gospel,
which leads us to the conclusion that
the Gospel was preached to Isra9l
in the wilderness, and the blessing of
eternal life offered to them.

Thus it becomes evident that the life-
hnpartmg statute?? and judgments offered
to Israel in the wilderness were simply
the- Gospel, through which man has been
rabaequcntly taught that this is eternal
life, to. know the only living and true
4Jod, and Jesus Christ whom he hath
sent.

We arrive, tiien, at the conclusion, that
jfoe Gospel was and is the embodiment
of the nwtltution of God's kingdom, for
its educational development, increase,
and government. Thu.^, as the generation
of man, in its ceaseless and onward
movement to the vast future, was
ordained to supply an unfailing increase,

I so the Gospel, as embracing the statutes
I and judgments of God, was ordained ta
( produce, through its educational influ-
j ence, the development of that knowledge
of God and man which should discover to
j him bis true relationship to his Great
Father, and thus place in his possession
the boon of eternal life.

From this we understand something
of the nature of that law against which
Israel rebelled; for which sin, or
" transgression," the "law was added" in
the form of " statutes that were not
good, and judgments whereby they
should not live." (Ezekiel xx. 25.)

Hence we see that the kingdom of God
was not established with Israel in the
wilderness, in consequence of their
unbelief and hardness of heart ; but was
held in reserve for some time in the
future, when the condition of the peoble
and the circumstances around tliQm
should be more propitious for its accom-
plishment. From this time we find
Israel maintaining a national existence
j under the law of carnal commandments.
! until seventy years subsequent to the
coming of Messiah, during which time
the Prophets continued to inspire hope
in the minds of the people, by prophesy-
ing of a time to come when the kingdom
of God should be built up, and the law
of God (no longer written on stone,)
should be written in the hearts of the
people, and when the glorious result
should be realised that the knowledge of
God should cover the earth as the waters,
cover the great deep.

The influence which the contemplation
of this great event of the coming future
had on the minds of the Prophets mav
be inferred by reference to some of their
declarations in relation to it. The first
we introduce is recorded in Jeremiah
xxxt. 33 :— " But this shall be the
covenant that I will make with the*
house of Israel : After those days, saithi
the Lord, 1 will put my law in their
inward parts, and write it in their
hearts, and will be their God, and they
shall be my people." The solicitude oC
the Prophet Isaiah on this point can \>e
seen as expressed in the following lan-
guage in chapter xxvi. 9:— "With my
soul have I desired thee in the night r
with my spirit within me will I seek
thee early ; for when thy j udgments are
in the earth, the, inhabitants' of the
world will learn righteousness." Fron*,

Digitized by

Google

OMNIPRESENCE OF GOD.

292

the language of the Prophet, it is evident
he did not consider the judgments of God
-which taught righteousness to be at that
time in the world ; but the day of their
future revelation was in his faith the
leading star of a bright and glorious
future. We further hear the same
Prophet speaking of the existence of a

S>wer denominated the " Zion of the
oly One of Israel." (Isaiah lx. 14.)
Some, perhaps, may say that this is
the Church, ana not the kingdom of God.
To such we would simply say that it
makei no difference, as the Prophet de-
-clares that the '.'nation and Kingdom
that will not serve thee shalf perish ;
yea, those nations shall be utterly
wasted." From the last quotation we
learn this truth — that whether this Zion
be the Church or kingdom of God, all
nations who do not submit to its rule
44 shall be utterly wasted," thus leaving
this Zion of our God the ruling power
of the earth, virtually constituting it the
sole government holding and exercising
universal rule over the earth, and thus for
the first time fulfilling the great injunc-
tion on man, as the child and repre-
sentative of God, to subdue the earth
and have dominion over it and all its
appurtenances.

The Spirit that unfolded so glorious a
future for the world in the rising splen-
dour and greatness of God's universal
kingdom seems to have shed abroad its
hallowed influence in the heart- of
Daniel, surrounded as he was with the
enthralments of a dreary captivity, in

the land and power of his enemka,*
While in these circumstances, bo ad-
verse to present bliss or happiness, the
Spirit of the Highest seems to have
lifted the dark vail from the future, and
disclosed to the Prophet, in his lucid
interpretation of the dream of the king
of Babylon, that, far down the stream ot
time, in the days of certain kings, (whom
existence was shown in the dream of the
king of Babylon,) the God of heaven
should 44 set up a kingdom, which shall
never be destroyed; and the kingdom
shall not be left to other people ; out it
shall break in pieces and consume all
these kingdoms, and it shall stand fbc
ever." (Daniel ii. 44.)

From this last we learn, first, that the
setting up of the kingdom of God wa»
an event far in the future from the time
when it was first shown to the Prophet;
or even from the revelation of Messiah,
as may be seen by noticing the results
of its existence as shown by Daniel,
which were first the breaking in pieces
of other kingdoms, and its own increase,
until it should fill the whole earth;
which, if true, would leave no other
power to question its right to rule the
world.

Such, in its extent and power, was
the kingdom of God, which he should
set up to rule and govern the earth and
its inhabitants, as indicated by baa
revelations to and dealings with man.
since his first introduction to the earth
as his home.

(To be continued.)

OMNIPRESENCE OF GOD.

BY ELDER HENRY WH1TTALL.

In comparing the ideas of others with
our own upon any subject, with a view
of coining to a clear understanding and
gust conclusion on the points discussed,
it is both important and necessary that
a clear definition of terms be given and
received. Most of the disputes which
arise in all classes of society, religious
and secular, would be avoided to a
great extent, if the disputants clearly
understood and attended to each other's
terms, and clearly defined their own.

Words are frequently used in such
different senses— sometimes primary,

and sometimes secondary — s ometime *
literal, and sometimes figurative, that
a misconception is often likely to arise,
which might be easily prevented, were
a plain definition of terms given at th*
outset. Opposite parties are too apt te>
place their own constructions on each
other's expressions.

44 Omnipresence ' as all will admit*
means presence everywhere.

Now, strictly speaking, matter, in Hs
most extensive and comprehensive senses
is the only thing that can be said to be
literally everywhere.' There are variowp

Digitized by Google

OMNIPRESENCE OP GOD,

293

lands and degrees of matter ; but matter
as a whole, and in a general sense, is
the only thing that we can conceive
of as being everywhere present, and
nowhere absent.

jOne reservation, however, must here
lie made, for the sake of scientific
accuracy, — namely, that wherever mat-
ter exists and moves, there is of neces-
a corresponding or proportionate extent
of space wherein to move.

There is no such thing, however, in
all the creations of God, as what is called
empty space.

But tnis fact does not in the least affect
our argument ; for the motion of mat-
ter is merely the displacement of one
thing by another — one particle occupying
the space which had been previously
occupied by another. Thus, if I thrust
my hand into a mass of sand, I do not

rsnetrate the grains of sand, (although
do penetrate the sand as a mass,) the
hand merely going between, or making
its way by displacing the grains with
which it comes in contact. No particle
of matter can occupy the same identical
Space as another at the same time ; con-
sequently, no portion of matter can in
an exclusive and strictly literal sense
he omnipresent.

The nearest approach to a literal
omnipresence, that we can conceive of,
is that of the particles of one kind and
degree of matter commingling with those
of another.

The following may serve as a simple
iHostratkm : In a homely cup of tea,
ve find the particles of the tea itself
intimately mingling with those of the
water ; those of the sugar mingle with
those of the other two elements ; and
then, again, there are the particles of
caloric or heat everywhere present
ifirou<jhout the whole. Yet no one
particle of either water, (itself a com-
pound of gases,) or tea, or sugar, or
cream, or heat, can occupy the same
apace as any other particle. This simple
illustration, however homely and com-
monplace, may serve as an example, on
a small scale, of the nearest idea that
can be formed of a literal omnipresence,
or presence everywhere. The plainer
the simile, the better for ease and
clearness of thought.

We have now to define what we mean
bj the term 44 God."

This word, like many others, is

frequently used to represent different
ideas. We sometimes employ it in
reference to Deity as a person One of
the old Prophets saw God sitting on a
throne. Of course, then, according to
this personal sense of the word, God
could not have been everywhere present ;
for he was on a throne. We often read
of God as sitting down, standing up*
walking about, &c. Now, a person, when
sitting down, does not occupy the same
space as when standing up. He always
occupies the same amount of space, but
no more, whatever posture he may place
himself in, or however much he may
change his relative positions by moving
hither and thither.

Hence it is utterly impossible for God
to be personally omnipresent.

But we sometimes speak of God in
reference to his attributes of love,
wisdom, goodness, influence, power,
authority, &c.

The next question, then, is, Can he
be said to be omnipresent in these
respects P

Yes, undoubtedly so ; but not
literally.

\ As these are all abstract terms*
it, is evident that they cannot be used in
a strictly literal sense. Love, power*
goodness, wisdom, &c, are not things
which occupy space. We cannot measure
knowledge by the yard, wisdom by the
pint, influence by the inch, or power by
the gallon. We cannot speak of autho-
rity as occupying so many square or
cubic feet of space, or describe the
height, depth, length, or width of intelli-
gence or faith. These are all abstract
terms ; and in describing the extent of
any attribute of God or man, we are
bound to speak figuratively. We thus)
speak of " infinite power," of 44 boundless
love," of 44 illimitable wisdom," of
44 unbounded influence," of 44 unlimited
authority," of 44 infinite goodness," &c*
If we examine such expressions closely,
we cannot but see that they are used m
a relative and figurative sense, and not
in a strictly literal one. We cannot
find room for all these things everywhere.
If one thing occupied all space literally,
we certainly could not locate half a doien
everywhere ! The absurdity of the thing
only proves the fallacy of the idea of
literal ubiquity in reference to anjr
attribute, the terms expressive of whichu
cannot be literalized.

Digitized by CjOOQ IC

294

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

But again: We often speak of God
in reference to his agents. For example,
Hie Apostle Paul savs, " No man taketh
this honour unto himself, but he that
is called of God, as was Aaron." Moses,
who called and ordained Aaron, was
Clod's agent. All the servants of the
Lord are called by His agents acting in
His name and by His authority. When a
man is called and ordained to certain
functions of the Priesthood, we say that
Qod called him, and that he is a
servant of Qod. Thus, in a relative
sense, God may be and is said to be
present where he is personally absent,
just as her Majesty the Queen may be
said to be present throughout all her
dominions oy her official and repre-
sentative agents. She is not literally,
hut virtually or officially, representa-
tively or vicariously present wherever
her regal authority is swayed. It is not
Actually she who is present, but her
agents or authorities, who act in her
name in her various principalities and
^colonies.

Again : We often use the term " God "
in reference to his Spirit, whereby he is
said to be omnipresent.

But we also frequently use the
term " Spirit" in more senses than one.
Sometimes we speak of the Holy Spirit
or Holy Ghost as a person. The Father,
the Son, and the Spirit are three distinct
persons, — the first two being personages
of tabernacle, and the last a personage
ofspirit. (See '* Compendium.") In this
sense, the Spirit can be no more spatially
extended, and no more omnipresent, than
the Father or the Son. If, indeed, either
of the three could be personally and
substantially present everywhere — that
is, filling all 6pace, it would puzzle the
astutest intellect to conceive where the
other two could be located !

The Spirit of God, then, or the Holy
<Jhost, as a personage, cannot be literally

omnipresent, although we may (as we
often do) speak of him as being present
here and there by his influence, autho-
rity, and power.

But we also frequently speak of the
Spirit of God as a divine substance
diffused throughout the spiritual and
physical universe, giving vitality, ac-
tivity, and force to the various tilings
around us, according to certain spiritual
and natural laws.

It is, indeed, the inherent life and soul
of all things — the inner and eternal
principle of life and being. Whether
we speak of "Nature" or of the "God
of nature," we mean the same thing,
unless, by way of distinction, we con-
nect with the latter expression the idea
of personality. In the former sense, God
is everywhere.

President Young, upon this subject*
says — 44 It is the Deity within us that
causes increase. . . He is in every
person upon the face of the earth. The
elements that every individual is made of
and lives in possess the Godhead.
The Deity within us is the great principle
that causes us to increase and to grow in
grace and truth."

. It will thus be evident that God is, by
his Spirit, in this sense, ommprtsenU
Indeed, we arrive at the conclusion that
God (although local in personality) may-
be said, in various ways and in different
senses of the word, to be everywhere
present. President Young says — 44 He
is omnipotent, and 4ills immensity by
his agents, by his influence, by his Spirh*
and by his ministers." So that, go
wheresoever we may, God is there,
in some way or other. If we ascend to
the heavens above, he is there ; if we
make the grave our bed, he is there;
if we fly to any part of the earth or
sea, he is there, and his providence will
protect the just.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 280.)

Elder G. J. Adams preached a dis-
course which occupied three hours, and
which could be heard a great distance.

President Joseph Smith turned over
the Conference into the hands of the
Twelve.

Choir sang a hymn. Prayer.

President Hyrum Smith called th»
Conference to order at twenty-five mi*
nutes to four, p.m., and spoke to thej
assembly one hour and a half.

He treated upon the subject of the EUgif

Digitized by VjOOglC

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

preaching abroad. He said it was a matter
af consequence that the Elders of Israel
should know what they were about when
they go to preach the Gospel. They should,
like Paul, be ready to give a reason for
the hope of their calling. When they
are sent to preach the Gospel, they should
preach the Gospel and nothing else, if they
wish to stand approved themselves. The
Elders are sent into the world to preach
faith, repentance, baptism for the remission
of sins, and the laying on of hands for the
reception of the Holy Ghost ; and they should
let the mysteries alone.

God has commanded you to preach re-
pentance i to this generation ; and if this
generation will not receive the first prin-
ciples of the Gospel and Book of Mormon,
they will receive nothing greater. Just go
and do asyou are told, and God will bless you.

It is the power of God that is going to
convert the world, and nothing but the
power of God. Every man who knows me
knows that I have taught these principles
from the beginning. It is the honest and
pure in heart that will hearken to the
everlasting covenant. They are those who
are noble and good : they will feed and
clothe you, and receive your testimony ; and
we want the Elders to gather out the
good seed to Nauvoo. Tho day will come
when you will see the wicked flee when no
man pursueth. I want you to be wise as
serpents and harmless as doves. Preach
principles that will stand the test of
ages; teach them good precepts and save
souls ; go forth as men of God, and you will
find friends wherever you go. Drink deep
of the Spirit of Truth, and a great and
mighty work shall be wrought in the world :
hundreds and tens of thousands shall flock
to the standard and go up to Zion. Many
other remarks were made by the speaker.

After which, Sidney Rigdon made a
few remarks, and concurred in what
Inrother Hyrum had said.

Twelve minutes to six, adjourned to
April 9th, at eight o'clock, a.m.

Tuesday, 9.— At 8 a.m. tho Elders
assembled at the stand, (President B.
Young presiding,) and were addressed
by Elder Amasa Lyman ; after which,

President B. Young said — What has beer-
given is correct ; the speech and conduct of
Elders one towards another is frequently
wrong ; one Elder will speak evil of another ;
and while you undertake to trample on others,
you will sink yourself. A man has sinking
principles ; but if his feelings are elevated,
he will build up others and build up himself.
Just as sure as one Elder tries to build him-
self up on the destruction of another, he will
surely sink himself.

I would like to sit and hear the brethren
teach for a week ; but as business is pressing,
we must hurry through. Preach repentance
to this generation. Faith must go before
repentance, and of course all men must
follow the course and obey the laws and
ordinances for the remission of sins, so as
to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, and
then your mission is done. Let a man who
goes mto the vineyard build up all he can.
If a man preaches anything in error, pray
to God that no man may remember it any
more. No Elder will correct another in
public before unbelievers unless he has the
sinkiug principle. I call all the Elders
together to witness that I always use
charity, for it covers a multitude of sins.

Let us obey the proclamation of Joseph
Smith concerning the Elders going forth
into the vineyard to build up the Temple t
get their endowments, and be prepared to-
go forth and preach the Gospel, i You may
build up Zion, and learn to be men, and not
children. It was a perfect sweepstakes
when the Prophet called North and South
America Zion. Let us go to and build the
Temple with all our might, that we may
build up the kingdom when established and
her cords lengthened. It is a perfect
knock-down to the Devil's kingdom. There
is not a faithful Elder who cannot, if he is
humble and diligent, build up a church.
There are many men who will give you large
sums to build a Stake of Zion where they
live. It proves the words of the Prophet of
the last davs.

The Priesthood is fitted to every capacity
in the world. There are blessings and con-
ditions in that Priesthood that suit every
man. This will suit the condition of thou-
sands, because it is as broad as the heavens,
deep as hell, and wide as eternity.

I am asked all sorts of question^ about
making gods and devils, and organizing the
eternal worlds ; but we could not get it pre-
cisely into our understandings so as to make
them. The God we serve is the God of
Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. There is no
need of breaking the law of the land if you •
keep the law of the Lord. I want a wife
that can take care of my children when I
am away, who can pray, lay on hands,
anoint with oil, and baffle the enemy ; and
this is a spiritual wife.

The sweepstakes is a perfect knock-down
to the Devil. We will build up the churches
and establish Zion and her stakes. This is
a fire which cannot be put out : it has
spread far faster than ever it did before.
If you kick us and cuff us, we will turn the
world upside down, and make the cart
draw the horse. We want to build the
Temple and have the roof on this fall, in
the name of Israel's God. There are

Digitized by

296

HI8T0RY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

hundreds of Elders who will sell their pro-
perty to build up the Temple. Let us pay
up our tithing. If there are any men who
have not paid their tithing, they will not
get in there. Let the Branches send teams
T¥ith provisions to work all the year.

We are acquainted ^ith the views of
Gen. Smith, the Democrats and Whigs and
all factions. It is now time to have a Pre-
sident of the United States. Elders will be
sent to preach the Gospel and electioneer.
The government belongs to God. No man
4."an draw the dividing line between the
government of God and the government of
the children of men. You can't touch the
Gospel without infringing upon the common
avocations of men. They may have helps
and governments in the Church, but it is
all one at last.

Patriarch Hyrum Smith said — I never
knew a proclamation to be understood at
once. President B. Young wished to draw
the attention of the brethren, first to build
the Temple and get your washings, anoint-
ing*, and endowments ; after that to build
up Branches throughout the nations. We
must do all we can to build the Temple, and
after that to build up churches. The
gathering will continue here until the
Temple is so far finished that the Elders
■can get their endowments ; and after that
the gathering will be from the nations to
North and South America, which is the
land of Zion. North and South America
are the symbols of the wings. The gathering
from the old countries will always be to
head-quarters, and I have no doubt fhis
Conference will do a great deal of good.

We have every power and principle to
teach the people. Say what God says, and
yay no more, Never deviate one fraction
from what God tells you. Elder Rigdon's
remarks were very correct. Give out the
simple principles. A man never fails who
only says what he knows ; and if any man
says more, and can't give reasons, he falls
short. Preach the first principles of the
Gospel — preach them over again : you will
find that day after day new ideas and
additional light concerning them will be
revealed to you. You can enlarge upon
them so as to comprehend them clearly.
You will then be able to make them more
plainly understood by those you teach, so
that you will meet with scarcely any honest
man but will obey them, and none who can
oppose. Adduce sufficient reason to prove
all things, and you can convert every honest
man in the world. The knowledge of the
Gospel of Jesus Christ is not prevalent in
the world, although it is written in the Holy
Book. You can prove it by the Holy Book
they profess to believe in, and your argu-
ments will be so strong and convincing, that

people will hear and obey it by thousands.
The Saviour says that to you it is given to
know the mysteries of God, but to the
world it is not given. You have power ; yon
are authorized to put down every foolish
thing you hear. A wise man will put it out
of existence as he goes along; for light
cleaveth unto light, knowledge to know-
ledge, and intelligence to intelligence.

We engage in the election -the same as in
any other principle : you are to vote for good
men, and if you do not do this it is a sin : to
vote for wicked men, it would be sin. Choose
the good and refuse the evil. Men of false
principles have preyed upon us like wolves
upon helpless lambs. Damn the rod of
tyranny ; curse it. Let every man use his
liberties according to the Constitution.
Don't fear man or Devil ; electioneer with
all people, male and female, and exhort
them to do the thing that is right. We
want a President of the U. S., not a party
President, but a President of the whole
people ; for a party President disfranchises
the opposite party. Have a President who
will maintain every man in his rights.

I wish all of you to do all the good you
can. We will try to convert the nations into
one solid union. I despise the principle
that divides the nation into party and faction.
I want it to grow up like a green bay tree.
Damn the system of splitting up the nation
into opposite belligerent parties. Whatever
are the rights of men guaranteed by the
Constitution of these United States, let them
have them. Then, if we were all in union,
no one dare attempt to put a warlike foot
on our soil. I don't like to see the rights of
Americans trampled down. I am opposed to
the policy of all such persons as would allow
Great Britain or any other power to take
from us Oregon or any portion of our national
territory ; and damn all who attempt it.
Lift up your voices like thunder : there is
power and influence enough among us to
put in a President. I don't wonder at the
old Carthagenian lawyer being afraid of
Joseph Smith being elected.

[A unanimous vote was passed by the im-
mense assembly for Joseph Smith "to be the
candidate for the next President.]

Elder Heber C. Kimball arose and said —
What brother Hyrum has told you is God's
truth, and will eventually come to pass. As
he was making his observations to the
Elders, it made me think of the first time
that I went out into the vineyard to preach.
I dwelt on one subject till it branched like
unto a tree that was cultivated, until the
branches shot forth in all directions. Sup-
pose you had only one seed to plant, and that
seed was an acorn, and you spend your time
in cultivating it till it comes forth a great
and mighty tree, branching forth with many

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH*

297

brandies, and bearing fruit abundantly after
its own kind. So it is with the first prin-
ciples of the Gospel, they branch out in all
directions, unfolding new light continually.
They are eternal principles. I never preached
anything else but the first principles. When
first we went to England, we preached
nothing else, and never even touched on the
gathering, as there was no place of gathering,
the Church having been driven from Jackson
<?ounty and also from Kirtland, and the
Prophets, Patriarchs, Apostles, and Saints
were wandering in the wilderness seeking
for a home ; but as soon as the people were
baptized and received the Holy Ghost, the
most of them had the spirit of prophecy,
and prophesied of coming to this laud, as
feeing the land of Zion.; and the time would
eomc that they should come here. Yet we
never taught the doctrine of the gathering
cr Book of Doctrines and Covenants.

If you tell the people to stay, they will
gather here stronger than ever. If you want
to cut anything oft you should know how to ,
restore. You should never cut off the ears of
the people until you are able to make them
others. It is no matter what way you con-
vert them, so that you convert them to
"believe the doctrines of the very Bible they
have always professed to believe. It is no
use attempting to teach them other things
until you can make them believe the prin-
ciples contained in the Bible which they
have been taught to reverence and believe
from their infancy. It teaches the gathering
and all the principles of the Gospel neces-

sary to be taught to the unbelieving world.
This is the thrashingfloor, where the
heat is gathered to be thrashed. There are
a great many green heads, and they of
course have to be pelted a little harder.
After the wheat is thrashed, it has to go
through the fanning-mill. and then the
screen, and then the smut-mill ; then it ha*
to be ground and to be bolted • but many
bolt away and leave. If you arct a rudgelling,
don't be mad, for your heads are green. We
are going to arrange a plan lor Conferences,
and we design to send Elders to all the
different States to get up meetings and pro-
tracted meetings, and electioneer for Joseph
to be the next President.

A great many of the Elders will necessarily
have to leave their families, and the mothers
will have to assume the responsibility of
governing and taking care of the children to
a much greater extent than when their
husbands were at-home. I therefore exhort
them to be humble, faithful, and diligent,
seeking to the Lord for wisdom to rear up
their children in righteousness and prepare
them to roll on the work of the Lord when
their fathers shall have been worn out in
the ministry. The mothers, therefore, ar«
the persons who will more, or less have to
train the children.

20 mmutes to 11: A call was made for
the volunteers to go preaching to pass out to
the green. A great company moved out
and returned to the right of the stand, and
were numbered 2^4.

20 minutes to 1 : Adjourned for one hour.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, May 11, 1861.

CIVIL WAE IN AMERICA-ITS IMPORTANCE AS A WARNING
TO THE SAINTS,

Civil war has at length been inaugurated in the United States by the attack upon
Fort Sumter in the harbour of Charleston, South Carolina, by the Carolinians.
The attack commenced at four o'clock on the morning of the 12th of April, and
terminated in the hauling down of the United States flag and the surrender of
the Fort to the Secessionists by Major Robert Anderson, the officer commanding,
at about 10 o'clock, p.m., on the 13th.

For months past the people of South Carolina and the adjacent States
confederate with her have been preparing for war. Since last November's ejection,
resulting as it did in the elevation of graham Lincoln, the nominee of the>

Digitized by

Google

298 BDITOBIAL.

Republican party, to the presidential chair, she has been untiring in her efforts to
completely dissever every connection binding her to the Union. Nothing has been
left undone by her to prepare for the consequences of such a step. In these
efforts and preparations South Carolina has been joined by several of her sister
States. Seven Southern States have formally passed ordinances of secession,
and have proceeded to organize a distinct government under the title of " The
Confederate States of America." A President and Vice-President have been
elected provisionally, not by the people, but by a convention of delegates
from the several seceding States. A constitution lias been framed and submitted
to the States of the new Confederacy for their approval, and they have approved
of it. Cabinet officers have been selected and placed in charge of the several
departments. An army has been organized and officered, and the entire machinery
of government has been regularly arranged and put in motion. Nothing
apparently has been left undone that would ensure a well-organized and capable
government, and the strength necessary to resist any attack that might be made*
upon them by the old Government at Washington.

For some time after the secession of South Carolina, a collision between the
people of that State and the Federal Government's troops seemed inevitable. It
would not have created much surprise if war had b ( roken out at any time. Fort
Moultrie had been abandoned, and Fort Sumter stealthily taken possession of and
fitted up for defence by Major Anderson. South Carolina was incensed at this
act, and angrily demanded that Sumter should be delivered up to her. lte
possession by the forces of the Federal Government, with her principal city at the
mercy of its guns, was a dishonour she could not brook — a standing menace too
humbling to her pride, and too much in conflict with the independence she desired
to possess. Her people were determined to obtain possession of it — peaceably if
they could, forcibly if they must. Old forts surrounding Sumter were strengthened,
and new ones were thrown up, and their guns were carefully trained in the
direction of that fortress. But they did not attack it. Then there came a lull in
the storm of preparation. The Government at Washington did not evince any
anxiety about maintaining their foothold in South Carolina by throwing men and
supplies into Fort Sumter. Negotiations between the Southern Confederacy and
the Administration at Washington for the delivery to the former of Fort Sumter,
and other forts in the South still in the possession of the Federal troops, were
commenced. The idea was soon circulated that Fort Sumter would have to be
evacuated as a military necessity, but that Fort Pickens would be maintained
and strengthened. As soon as this idea was bruited abroad, the interest of the
nation that had all been concentrated upon Sumter and South Carolina, was
directed to Fort Pickens, and the troops of the Confederacy encamped in their
fortifications around it. It was confidently stated that if there should be any
collision, (which very many persons both in the United States and this country
strongly doubted and denied the probability of,) Fort Pickens would be the point
where it would occur. It was fully expected that Sumter would be left for South
Carolina troops to quietly occupy. Two or three mails reached this country,
bringing the intelligence that Fort Sumter was on the point of being evacuated ;
and when the steamers which brought them left the United States, the news of
an attack upon Fort Pickens was momentarily expected. Indeed, one steamer
brought the intelligence that telegraphic communication with Pickens had ceased,
and there was scarcely a doubt entertained about war having actually commenced
there.

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

299

.Bat the Almighty had decreed otherwise. He had said, through his Prophet,
Joseph Smith, on December 25th, 1832, that " The days will come that war will
be poured out upon all nations, beginning at that place" [South Carolina].
" Wars," he then said, 44 will shortly come to pass, beginning at the rebellion of
South Carolina, which will eventually terminate in the death and misery of many
souls." We knew, therefore, that, negotiate, arrange, and compromise as the
opposing parties might please, the war would have to commence at South Carolina,
and not in Florida, where Fort Pickens was situate.

When people generally were imagining that the danger of war was not .^o
imminent as it had been, it broke out. War vessels had been fitted out at New
York — troops and munitions of war were being embarked ; their destination wad
not known, but they were supposed to be intended for Fort Pickens and Texas.
Horses and flying artillery, &c., "which could not be used at either Sumter or
Pickens, convinced those who ventured an opinion as to their probable destination,
that Texas was to be the field of their operations. Some few cases, which were
marked " Fort Pickens," furnished grounds for the supposition that that fort was
to be supplied on the ships' passage down. But South Carolina began to be
uneasy. The Commander-in-Chief of the forces, General Beauregard, did not
like the delay of the Washington Government in evacuating the fort. He caused
the supplies that Major Anderson and his command had been in the habit of
receiving from the markets of the city of Charleston to be stopped. The
Washington Government said that their troops must be supplied peaceably, or
otherwise by force. Upon learning that this was their determination, the General
of the forces of the Confederate States demanded of Major Anderson that he and
his men would evacuate the fort. This Anderson declined doing, stating that
Jus sense of honour and his obligatiois to his Government prevented his compliance
with the demand. After receiving this reply, the batteries of the Confederate
troops opened their fire upon the Fort, which was surrendered to them after a
hotly- contested fight of about thirty hours' duration.

This is the first act in the bloody drama — the precursor of wars that shall spread
over all nations, and bring death and misery to many souls, and cause the
inhabitants of the earth to mourn It has commenced at the spot designated by
the Lord ; and as surely as its beginning has been foretold, so surely shall every-
thing that has been foretold respecting the results which shall follow this
beginning, be fulfilled. The whole nation of what was once the Uuited States,
are eager for the fray. A feeling of desperate resolve has seized upon all, North
and South. The excitement in both sections is described as being most intense.
President Lincoln has called upon the States which have not seceded, for 75,000
troops. Their first duty, he says, will be to retake the forts and other United
States' property seized by the Secessionists. The North assert very freely that
this must be done at all hazards, whatever may be the consequence. The South
ave also mustering their hosts, with the equally resolute intention of maintaining
their ground. When they meet, the shock will be terrible. And the worst feature
in the case is, that after they have fought they will have no better grounds for
settlement than when they begin. If one party should be victorious, there is no
provision in the Constitution for the holding of a conquered people in subjection,
The whole genius of the Government is- opposed to such an idea. It is a govern-
ment of equals. Imagination shrinks back with horror from the bare
contemplation of such a fratricidal war as this must be. It must be a war of
extinction to one or both parties, or complete decrepitude as a nation. There is

Digitized by

300

EDITOBIAL.

no doubt but all the border States which have been standing aloof from
both extremes will wheel into line with the Southern Confederacy, now that
the issue of war is forced upon them. This will intensify and protract the
struggle. [Since writing the above the news of Virginia's (the principal border
State) secession has been received.

The present condition of affairs in the. United States and the prospect before
them inspire the reflection that the day is near at hand, spoken of by the Lord
through his servant Joseph, when the wicked shall slay the wicked, and when
every man that will not take his sword against his neighbour must needs flee
unto Zion for safety. The Lord said, upwards of thirty years ago, that there should
be people gathered unto Zion out of every nation under heaven, and they should
be the only people that should not be at war one with another. Nothing could at
that time have seemed more improbable than that such should have been the case.
But he has brought it to pass: he has caused the wrath of man to praise him.
Their evil deeds he has over-ruled for the accomplishment of his purposes and
the salvation of his elect. They drove out his Church from their midst, and
compelled it to take refuge in^the wilderness. But that very act placed the Lord's
people in a position where they could be safe when intestine broils and civil war
should desolate the land and compel the inhabitants to take up their weapons of
war one against another.

Great and precious are the promises of the Lord unto Zion ! Happy are the
people unto whom they are made ! Enviable is the position they occupy ! When
civil war shall desolate the land, they have the assurance that they shall have
peace-- 4 ' they shall be the only people that shall not be at war one with another f
Nestling in the bosom of a vast continent^ far removed from the scene of strife,
and encompassed by lofty mountains and interminable deserts and plains, the
country they inhabit will be but little affected by the battles and dissensions of
the outer world. Their situation is ah admirable one. The wisdom of the Deity
was displayed ih its selection as a nursery for his nascent kingdom. Well may
the righteous, which shall be gathered out from all nations, go to Zion, singing
songs of everlasting joy.

To the Saints in Europe the signs of the times should be an incentive to
diligence and faithfulness. This war between the Southern and Northern States,
which has just broken out, is a sign that should not be passed over lightly. Its
testimony should be like peals of thunder in the ears of the slothful and
careless in the Church. The consumption decreed, which is to make a full end
of all nations, has begun. It was to commence at South Carolina ; but it was to
spread until all nations were to be involved in it. The nations of Europe cannot
escape from it, if they continue as they are. But the Lord has provided a place
of refuge for those who will accept it. All who desire to avail themselves of this
place of security can do so, if they be diligent. Even the poorest of the poor, by
exereising faith in the Lord's promise, and claiming its fulfilment at his hands,
can go, and nothing can prevent them. Now is the time for the Saints to test
their faith, and see whether they have sufficient to obey the command of the
Lord and to escape his threatened judgments, which will inevitably fall upon the
faithless and unbelieving ; for " vengeance cometh speedily upon the inhabitants
of the earth — a day of wrath, a day of burning, a day of desolation, o£
weeping, of mourning, and of lamentation ; and as a whirlwind it shall come upon
«11 the face of the earth, saith the Lord."

CORRESPONDENCE.

301

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Ship Underwriter, April 23, 1861.
Elder Gannon.

Dear Brother, — Permit me, through
the columns of the Star, to say good-
bye to my numerous friends in various
parts of this Mission, and to express in
a few words some of my feelings in
relation to the great work in which we
are engaged.

Brethren and sisters, I hid you all a
very affectionate farewell. Time will
not permit me to say much, but I thank
you for the numerous and repeated
acts of kindness I have experienced
from you, and say, May God Almighty
bless you for ever !

I bear testimony that, through the
revelations of Jesus Christ, by the
power of the Holy Ghost, I know that
the Eternal God has sent his angel in
these days to reveal the everlasting
Gospel, and that the Latter-day King-
dom is now being set up, that Joseph
and Brigham are God's own appointed
jmnisters of salvation, and that the
■work which they have commenced will
accomplish the end for which it was
designed — that is, the emancipation of
the human race from the bondage of
ain, death, hell, and the Devil.

I know that God requires his people
to gather together, and that for
the present, time Utah is the place
appointed. 1 am going there in con-
sequence of that knowledge — not to find
out whether 44 Mormonism" is true or
false, but because I know that it is the
'work of God, and that gathering is an
essential part of it.

1 leave with good feelings towards
all, and feel my heart swelling with
blessings for you. I go with joy to
Zion to drink a deeper draught of the
inspiration of this work, to taste more
of that influence which is so pleasant
to my soul, to help still further in esta-
blishing the work, for the building up
of which I have devoted my whole
being for nearly eleven years. 1 look
on the past with overwhelming feelings
of gratitude to God for his kindness
towards me in all my travels, toils, and
struggles, and ascribe to him the glory
for every good result from my labours,

Good-bye to all ! Be faithful, ham-
ble, and prayerful ; and then I know
that all the blessings with which my
heart feels overcharged towards you
will assuredly come down upon your
heads.

Your brother in the Gospel,
Charles W. Penrose.

Ship Underwriter, April 22, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I cannot leave my
native land without writing you a few
lines in relation to my feelings on this
subject.

1 have had much pleasure in labour-
ing during the few years past in the
ministry.

The kindness of the Saints and my
brethren has been received with a
grateful heart, and has led me often to
look forward to the time when a change
would take place among the Saints on
my way to Zion.

I have tried to remember and carry
out the instructions I have received in
the best way I could.

Now I find myself here with numbers
of the Saints among whom I have
laboured throughout various portion*
of England and Scotland during the
last ten years. I have much satisfac-
tion in meeting them all at this par-
ticular time. The Lord has given us
his Spirit, which spreads peace and
cheerfulness through the company.

I have felt cheered and blest in
mingling with this company of the
sons and daughters of God. I never
felt so well since I embraced the truth
as I do at the present time. 1 feel this
to be one of the greatest of Heaven's
blessings, and I hope to live wortliv of
it and those which are likely to follow
a strict observance of the truths we
are permitted to learn.

The Sheffield District, I am happy
to say, is in very good condition. The
Saints are a warm-hearted people, and
the Lord is pouring out his Spirit upon
the honest in heart, and also upon those
who have once been in the Church. I
have enjoyed the society of the Priest-
hood who are labouring there, and I

Digitized by

302

cobbbspondAnce^

pray God that they may be sustained
in their efforts to roll the cause along.

Please to accept my heartfelt thanks
for the privilege of going home.

Praying that the blessing of the Lord
may accompany your labours, in con-
nection with Presidents Lyman and
Rich, and all those who second them,
I remain, with kind love,

Thomas Wallace.

Bushpy, April 16, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I embrace the pre-
sent opportunity of reporting to you in
brief my field of labour, the Essex Con-
ference, which is composed of 13
Branches and 257 members, including
officers. The Branches are widely
scattered, averaging from ten to twenty
miles apart. The Conference is situated in
three counties — namely Hertfordshire,
Essex, and Suffolk ; and the Saints are
scattered over a distance of 300 miles :
so you see there is some leg-service to
ho done, to keep matters moving. The
Saints are generally very poor in this
Conference. They are chiefly farm-
labourers, the men earning from 8s. to
10s. per week, and women about 4s.
Truly is the saying of Jesus fulfilled —
to the poor the Gospel is preached.
Yet, with all their poverty, they are rich
in faith, and they are doing all they
can to build up the kingdom of God.
There are three Travelling Elcters in the
Conference. They are united with me
in carrying out the counsels of the
servants of God ; and as soon as the
weather will permit, we intend to launch
out into new places and preach the
Gospel to the people. Our meetings
have been well attended of late by
strangers, who manifest a good feeling
towards us and the principles that we
preach ; and there is a prospect of
baptizing a few. We have not done
much baptizing yet in the Conference,
but* I think the prospect is brighter
than it has been for some time. There
are 22 emigrating this season to the land
of Zion, and I pray the Lord to "bless
them on their way, that they may reach
the home of the Saints in safety.

I rejoice in the present prospects of
the work of the Lord, and my dosire is
to be a faithful and humble servant in
the hands of the Lord and his servants,
that I may live long to assist in build-

ing up the kingdom of God on the earth.
To this end I desire the Spirit of the
Lord to be with me, that I may remain
faithful to the end ; so that when my
labour is done in this land I may also
go home to Zion.

Ever praying for your prosperity in
the cause of truth. I remain, as ever*
your brother in Christ,

' Edwin Scott.

Rugby, April 22, 1861.
Dear Brother Cannon, —

I take this opportunity to drop you a
few lines, to let you know how we are
getting along. According to appoint-
ment, I have made my way into this
Conference, and I find the people feel-
ing well in spirits, but very poor in
pocket. Times are very dull. There
seems to be quite a good opening for*
preaching the gospel.

As Brother Joseph Foster, who tra-
velled in the Stradford District, ha»
gone to the Valley, it leaves that part
without a Travelling Elder. The Con-
ference spreads over a large tract of
country, and the main part of the
travelling is done on foot. Under these
circumstances, it is about impossible
for myself and Brother Jeffs to visit
and do justice to all.

There is a good opening in and round
Coventry. I have preached in Coventry
twice, and it has left some good
impressions. Quite a number of
strangers attend our meetings, and I
believe there will be a good work done.
T can say that I feel well among the
Saints. They receive me kindly and
treat me well.

I remain yours in the Gospel of
peace,

*S.oivel L. Adams.

Surrey, March 29, 1861.
Editor of the Star.

Sir, — In your issue of March 30th,
I notice several texts proposed to the
Rev. Van Wyke, of New York, as a,
basis for a lecture on '* Mormonism,'*
or " Polygamy."

Permit me" to nsk if the following
passages would not be further aids to
the gentleman on that subject, — namely*
Isaiah i. 22— 41 A little one shall become
a thousand, and n small one a strong
nation. The Lord will hasten it in Ws
time/' Galatians iii. 6 — >" Even aa
Digitized by Google

SUMMARY.

303

Abraham believed God, and it was
.accounted to him for righteousness,
Know ye, therefore, that they which
are of faith, the same are the children
of Abraham. And the Scriptures fore-
seeing ' that God would justify the
heathen through faith, preached before
the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In
thee shall all nations be blessed. So,
then, they which be of faith are blessed
with faithful Abraham." 14th verse — 1
** That the blessing of Abraham might
come on the Gentiles through Jesus
Ohrist." 15th verse — " Brethren, I
speak after this manner of view;
though it be but a man's covenant ; yet
if it be confirmed, so man disanmdleth
or addeth thereto." 1 Timothy iii. 30
requires a man to have at least one

wife, before he can be a Bishop ; and
the 5th verse assigns the important
reason. In Isaiah iv. 1 we read — "la
that day seven women shall take hold
of one man, and say," &c. Matthew
xix. 29— " Every one that hath for-
saken houses, or brethren, or sisters,
or tpfe or children, or lands, for my
name's sake, shall receive an hundred-
fold." And lastly, my own scripture,
which is, that very many of my country-
women do not have opportunities of
marriage, without stooping to take men
who would disgrace and lower them
morally, socially, and religiously.

Respectfully and religiously,
Ax Englishwoman,
Not of your Church, or the Mormons.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

American. — Another star has at length fallen from the Federal constellation : in other
words, Virginia has seceded from the Union, and a proclamation has been issued by the
Governor recognising the Southern Confederacv. The news was received with rejoicings
in the South. North Carolina has seized the Government forts, and all the Slave States
seem to be arming for the defence of the South. No more provisions or arms are to be
allowed to go South. President Lincoln, in a proclamation, declares all the ports of the
seceded States blockaded. Troops are arriving at Washington from all points. The
Yirginians closed Norfolk Harbour by sinking vessels to prevent egress from the Navy
Yard. The Federal Commissioners at Harper's Ferry, being pressed by a thousand
Virginians, destroyed the Armoury, the Arsenal, the manufactory, buildings, and 15,000
stand of arms on the 18th, and then retired to Pennsylvania, with three men lost. All
the bridges have been destroyed between Baltimore and Washington. Fort Sumter has
surrendered, and the Confederate flag-now floats over its walls. The news of the surrender
•caused the Government at Washington to take decisive steps. President Lincoln issued a
proclamation convening 75,000 nulitia to take the field forthwith, and convened an extra
session of Congress for the 4th of July. Extensive preparations were making for the defence
of Washington. Lincoln's call for troops was enthusiastically responded to bv the Northern
States. The New York Legislature had voted 30,000 men and 3,000,000 dollars. Troops
are being concentrated at Washington. The North appears united.' Volunteers are
rapidly enrolling. Money is tendered in all quarters to support the Government.
Jefferson Davis haft issued a proclamation authorising letters of marque. The
Governors of Kentucky, North Carolina, and Missouri refuse troops to the Federal
Government. Maryland and Delaware support the Administration. The Confederate
-Government is about to issue a call for 150,000 volunteers. President Davis*
answer to .President Lincoln's proc lamati on is rough and curt. It is as follows: —
" Fort Sumter is ours, and nobody is hurt. With mortar, Paixhan, and petard, we
tender ' Old Abe' our Beau regard r Secretary Toombs has received a despatch
-from Senator Breclrinridge and Governor Magoffin, saying that Kentucky is
greatly excited, and sympathises entirely with South Carolina, and that 7,000
men of the Border States are under arms to move at a moment's notice upon the order of
the War Department at Montgomery. Immense quantities of munitions of war are reaching
Savannah. Official advices have been received at Washington that Santa Anna sur-
rendered St. Domingo to the Spanish authorities on the 18th March. An inundation has
taken place at Grimntown, and the lower part of Montreal t a million dollars damage.
Advices from Rio de Janeiro to the 9th instant state that a dreadful earthquake had
destroyed a Dart of the city oftytendoza, in the Argentine Republic. The number of
victims is said to be 7,000, and 2,000 houses have been thrown down. The loss is
estimated at 350,000,000 francs.

Digitized by Google

304

VARIETIK8. — POETRY.

General.— The Patrie reports that the Lord High Commissioner of the Ionian Islands
has issued a proclamation, in which he declares that, should the disturbances which have
broken out at several points continue, the country will be placed in a state of siege. The
name paper asserts that Corfu is militarily occupied, and that the troops are encamped in
the squares and streets. Arrests continue to te made in Naples. Troops have been
despatched to the Roman frontiers. Advices from Beyrout to the 22nd ult. announce
<hat five Turkish vessels, with troops on lx>afd, had arrived from Constantinople. An
address was being signed, calling upon the European powers to settle the question of
indemnity, and to take energetic measures for the protection of the Christians in Syria.
Advices have likewise been received from Constantinople, announcing that Omar Pacha
is the bearer of a proclamation from the Sultan assuring the inhabitants of Bosnia that
Omar Pacha will protect them against the Montenegrins. Fresh troops had embarked for
Syria. On their arrival at Beyrout, Fuad Pacha will have 35,000 troops at his disposal.

VARIETIES,

Another Problem Solved. — Required, the most simple Vulgar fraction whQse>
numerator and denominator do each consist of 7 digits, and whose greatest common*
measure is 1 V KliHWKK 1 l*g!gg _ T , „ M . a . ,
answer, 2l78SW .«_By John Sabin Smith.

Getting an Invitation. — It was observed that a certain rich man never iuvited anr
one to dine with him. 4i I'll lay a wager," said a wag, 44 1 get an invitation from him. '
The wager being accepted, he went the next day to the rich man's house about the time ho
was to dine, and told the servant he must speak with his master immediately, for he
could save him a thousand pounds. 44 Sir," said the servant to his master, " here Is a man
jn a great hurry to see you, who says he can save you a thousand pounds." Out came
t^ie master. ^ What is that, sir ? You can save me a thousand pounds P" 44 Yes", sir, I
Jean ; but I see you are at dinner : I will go nvyself and dine, and call again." '* Ob,
•.pray, ar, come in and take dinner with me." The invitation was accepted. As soon as
f dinqer, was over and the family had retired, the conversation was resumed. Well, sir,"
said the mastfcr of tHw liaise, y.'aiow. to your business. Pray let me know how I am to
save a thousand pounds." Why, sir," said the other, *' I hear that you have a daughter
to dispose of in marriage." 44 1 have, sir." 44 And that you intend" to portion her with
ten thousand pounds." " 1 do, sir." 44 Why, then, sir, if you will let me have her. I will
take her at mat thousand !" The master rosein a passion and kicked him out of doors.

POETIY.

LINES 05* GATHERING.

I long to leave my natite land
To mingle with the just—-

With Zion s happy, peaceful band,
Who in Johovali trust.

1 long to leave oM England's shore,

In fairer climes to Khare
The truth and honesty which dwell
Among the righteous there.

Barking.

I long to live where peace aiM lave

In every heart abound—
Where liberty and freedom are.

And Zion's sooga resound.

1 long to leave old Babylon ;

No cbams it baa for me*.
But that bright laud where Chrn»t win ctnjp

Is where i wish to be.

K. F. Clskc

C0HTENT8.

Design of God in the Constitution of Man 28ft Penrose.'

Omnipresence of c> <t<!

History of Joseph Smith „ ; ... $<i i

VivH War in Anwirw — It* Importance as a

Warning to the Saints il*7

Gorrespmvlenee. — Kntrtaiiri • l/-tta from Elder

■Letter from Elder Wallace.— Letter
from Elder Scott— Letter from Elder Adams.

r —Letter from "An Englishwoman " ~ 161

Nummary of News and Passing Events Ml

Poetry.— Lines on 'fathering - ~ M£

Varieties , 3*4

LIVERPOOL «

KPlTEt», PB INTER AND PUBLISH Rl» BY GEOROR Q. CANNON, 4*, fftLlNwTOff.

LONDON -

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-PAY SAINTS' ROOK DEPOT, ^LORKNrE STRICT* BRQ£9 STII^URV
IHIJttGTON; AND ALL R'»oK$t$fXfcl:S.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

44 A noise thaU come even to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nation* : he wtU
plead with all fitek; he win give than that are wideed to the sword, saith tho Zorrf."— Jk&kmiah.

No. 21, Vol. xxni.

Saturday, May 25, 1861.

Price One Penny.

DESIGN OF GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OP MAN;

BY PRESIDENT A MAS A M. LYMAN.

( Continued from page 292.)

In continuing the investigation of
our subject, before taking leave of the
Old Testament Prophets, (whose pro-
spective reading of a future of glory
and greatness, in the history of Israel,
enabled them to hope for the triumph
of truth, amid the idolatrous perverse-
ness of the people around them,) we
will introduce the saying of the Prophet
— " For unto us a child is born, unto
us a son is given ; and the government
ahafl be upon his shoulder ; and his
•name shall be called Wonderful, Coun-
sellor/The mighty God, The everlasting
Father, The P rince of Peace. Of the
increase of his government and peace
there shall be no end, upon the throne
of David, and upon his kingdom, to
order it, and to establish it with judg-
ment and with justice, from henceforth
even for ever. The zeal of the Lord of
hosts will perform this." (Isaiah ix.
6, 7.)

In the foregoing quotation there are
several points of no trivial import
brought to mind as indicating the
designs of God in his dealings with
Israel and the world. First, we are
told that on the shoulder of the child
the government should rest, thus show-
ing the existence of a kingdom over
which such gove/nment should extend,
as the existence of a ruling power ever

implies the existence of persons or
things ruled.

The nature of this rule or govern-
ment is indicated in the character of
the ruler as "the Prince of Peace, thus/
showing that God designed to establish
a government of peace to rule the world.

Of the universality of this rule and
government we- are assured in the
declaration that "to the increase «£
his government and peace there shaft
be no end." Thus is most clearly
evinced the perfect coincidence of the
" jgovernment and peace" of Isaiah, with
its eternal increase, and the " kingdom"
of Daniel, which, when set up, should
break in pieces all other kingdoms and
stand for ever, pointing to the same
time and the accomplishment of the
same work for the realization and ful-
filment of what they saw, and of which
they spoke and wrote for the comfort
and edification of Israel, by leading
their minds ever to the great future for
the realization of their highest hopes,
and the attainment of the glorious
destiny determined for them in the
purposes of their being, and revealed
in the covenants made with their
fathers.

^Having thus far followed the Scrip-
ture history of the dealings of God with
Israel, to learn the purpose that induced

Digitized by

Google

322

DESIGN OF GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN.

his actions, we approximate the time
when these important questions are to
receive a more full and perfect solution
in the pergonal revelation and ministry
of the humble Nazarene as the Son and
heir of God. To the person and teach-
ings of Jesus as reflected in the Scrip-
tures we look for the highest and most
perfect historical evidence on record
for our enlightenment.

While we look to Jesus, the Son of
God, as the Scriptures reveal him* to
us, for the faithful and true reflection
of his Father, (as the Scripture testifies
he is the brightness of his Father's
glory, and the express image of his
person,) we should be careful to take
in all the points of his character as
they are severally presented to us.
In the quotation from Isaiah we have
an indication of the character and
extent of his greatness as " "Wonderful,
Counsellor, The mighty God, The ever-
lasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

Having learned from the Prophet of
the greatness and glory of Jesus as the
representative of his Father, in order
to learn how perfectly this greatness
was adapted to the accomplishment of
the work of human redemption as the
great purpose of his mission to earth,
we will consult the history of the same
as given in the Scriptures by himself,
and those directly and intimately asso-
ciated with him during his brief and
eventful pilgrimage in the earthly home
of fallen, degenerate humanity, where
we may glean rich instruction as to
his greatness and power, and the
manner in which they were made to
subserve the accomplishment of his
mission of love and mercy to mankind,
thus showing ■ to the truth-seeking and
truth-loving soul the chief excellencies
of the Gospel above all man-originated
systems of religion, in its adaptation
to the formation of that great social
organization that in the purpose of
God is to rule the world, making
the earth with its teeming millions
one universal scene of truthful purity
and virtuous happiness, thus proving
the design of God in the development
of his Church and kingdom to have
been none other than to extend to an
illimitable infinitude the circle of intel-
lectual human happiness.

We now turn our attention for a
brief moment to the consideration of the

circumstances under which Jesus, with
all his power and peculiar endowments
as the Son of God, was introduced to
the theatre of his earthly mission.
Instead of being attended with the
gaudy luxuriant surroundings of wealth
and power, we find him subject to all
the destitution, poverty, and want that
characterize the introduction of poor
humanity to its earthly home.

Hence we find the infant God, clothed
with power as the representative of his
Father to accomplish his great and
holy purposes in his mission to earth,
denied the blessings that cluster around
the votaries of wealth. No palace of
the great received him; no golden
wealth glittered around the manger
where he was born the child of want ;
no liveried herald, decked with golden
insignia of high position, proclaimed in
the courts of the great the coming of
heaven's royal representative ; but on
the plains of Bethlehem, where humble
shepherds watched their fleecy charge,
and from the twinkling stars that
gemmed the curtain of night, drank in,
as they contemplated their shining
beauty, rich draughts of heaven's holy
inspiration. While in her star-lighted
courts, Nature's humble worshippers
adored. It was then a seraph left
the Sacred Presence, and bore to
the waiting shepherds the soul-cheering
news that Jesus was born, the guiding
star leading them to the manger where
the illustrious stranger was cradled.
Thus poor, he came to enrich a world ;
thus meek and lowly, to exalt fallen
man to his legitimate position and
glory in the paternal kingdom.

The declaration of Jesus, that he
came to do the will of Him who sent
him, presents his works as the reflection
of the purposes of his Father, and the
execution of his grand and glorious
designs. Of the manner in which he
entered upon and prosecuted his work,
we learn the following, as recorded in
Mark's testimony of . the Gospel : —
" Now, after that John was put in prison,
Jesus came into Galilee, preaching the
gospel of the kingdom of God, and
saying, The time is fulfilled, and the
kingdom of God is at hand : repent ye,
and believe the gospel. " (Mark i. 14, 15.)

In this passage the great truth appears
that the Gospel of Christ was the
Gospel of the kingdom of his Father ;

Digitized by

DB8IGN OF GOD IN THE CONSTITUTION OP MAN.

323

and another truth is rendered equally
plain, which is, that the institutions of
the Gospel are the judgments and
statutes of the kingdom of God, offered
to Israel through Moses, and rejected
by them ; in consequence of which the
law was added, because of such trans-
gression, until the seed (even Christ)
should come. He having come as
shown, the time for which the law was
given was fulfilled as declared in the
preceding quotations : the kingdom of
God was at hand, when Jesus came
preaching its Gospel, preparatory to
its being built up or established in
power among men; for which cause
belief in Jesus and repentance and
baptism were proclaimed to the people
as conditions of admission into the
Church and kingdom of God.

That we may understand the extent
of power with which Jesus was clothed
as the representative of his Father,
sent to do and accomplish his work, see
his own declaration — 44 And Jesus came
and spake unto them, saying, All power
is given unto me in heaven and in
earth." (Matt, xxviii. 18.)

After this declaration of Jesus as to
the power he possessed, then follows
his sending his disciples unto all nations,
saying — " Go ye into all the world and
preach the gospel to every creature.
He that believeth and is baptized shall
be saved; but he that believeth not
shall be damned." (Mark. xvi. 15, 16.)
From this it is obvious that it was the
design of God to open the door of the
Church to every creature, with the
privilege that all might come in.

Some may think that the develop-
ment of the kingdom of God, as a
government, to extend its rule over the
nations of the world, was not as a
design embraced in the act of sending
the Apostles to preach the Gospel to
every creature, promising salvation to
all that should believe. To such we
would suggest that they entertain
the supposition that all the inhabitants
of the earth had believed, as all had
the privilege according to the provision
made by Jesus in sending his servants to
preach ^ then all would have been saved,
aJl would have belonged to one church
and kingdom, and none other could have
ex \ ted to have disputed its rule or right
to govern the world, as all men would
h ? been subject tc its institutions.

The foregoing supposition will enable
us to understand what would have been
the condition of the world* had all the
liberty and the conditions of the Gospel
been received and complied with. The
result would have been the establish-
ment of one universal church. Did
the Lord design it P or was he acting
upon principles he did not understand P
If the consistency of truth did give
character to his actions, then we have
an ^unerring guide to his designs in the
indications found in his revelations to
and dealings with mankind. From
these we have learned his purpose to
unite im the bonds of one faith and
universal brotherhood his great family,
comprising all the nations of men,
through the agency of the Gospel of
his kingdom, thus bringing into the
field of active operation for the develop-
ment of his mignty empire no force but
that of moral suasion, and no power
but that of truth, the light of which
should dissipate the clouds of ignorance
that hang in sullen darkness around
degenerate humanity, and point out the
way to happiness and glory, by believ-
ing in the truth and in the path of
obedience to its laws, finding that
experience which is rich in corresponding
demonstration, and stores the mind with
knowledge that discloses to man so
enlightened the end of his being in the
accomplishment of the sublime and
holy purpose of his Creator in his own
exaltation to happiness and glory.

Hence we see that the purpose of
God was to build up a kingdom of
purity, peace, and virtue, combining
and embracing in its existence, when
developed in its perfections, all
the excellencies of heavenly bliss
and glory* Thus it would be the Zion
of our God, the perfection of beauty,
and a bright reflex of the glory of its
Divine Author.

To struggle in the accomplishment
of this glorious work, the Apostles were
sent to preach, Jesus declaring that as
his Father had sent him into the world,
even so he sent his servants to represent
the designs and power of the Father as
he (Jesus) represented them. Hence
the Apostle declares — " Now, then, we
are ambassadors for Christ, as though
God did beseech you by us, we pray
you, in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled
to God." (2 Cor. v. 20.)

Digitized by

324

WITH8TAND THE WILES OF 8ATAN.

From this fact it would seem that if
the accomplishment of his work required
that all power should be given to him
in heaven and in earth, the same
necessity existed in relation to the
Apostles whom he sent to prosecute the
work, showing thereby that the preach-
ing of the Gospel of the kingdom by
himself and those whom he chose and

ordained to that work were identical,
and for the development of the same
grand results, embracing the fulfilment
of the designs of his Father in the
world's redemption, for his glory and
man's happiness, by giving him the
light of knowledge instead of the dark-
ness of ignorance, and thus produce
and establish universal peace.

(To be continued.)

WITHSTAND THE WILES OF SATAN.

BT H. L. SQUIRES.

The Apostle Paul, in the 6th chapter
of his Epistle to the Ephesians, shows
very plainly the necessity of having on
the wnole of the Christian armour, that
we may be able to stand against the
wiles of the Wicked One, and points out
very clearly that as a soldier goes forth
to battle, so does the Saint begin a war-
fare. As a soldier has to be protected
against the swords and fire-arms of the
foe, so the Saints have need of a like
protection against the wiles of the
Devil ; lor, as he says, we have to
wrestle " against principalities, against
powers, against rulers of the darkness
of this world," and 44 against spiritual
wickedness in high places."

Those who enter in the cause of
Christ begin a great warfare. They
are called the soldiers of Christ, and
Christ the Captain of their salvation*
They are commanded to have on every
part of their armour, in which they are
to go forth against the enemies of their
salvation, and by which they will be
enabled to defeat all their wiles and
power.

The Apostle says, " Have your loins
girt about with truth." The truth is
Bometime8 put for the Gospel, as in the
expression, 14 obeyed the truth." But
in this place it appears to denote sin-
cerity. The two terms are often used
together synonymously, as in the ex-
pression, 44 Serve the Lord in sincerity
and truth."

There is much implied in sincerity —
namely, a determination to serve God
without regard to consequentes. Our
duty to God is paramount to every
other consideration. Whatever may be
our sacrifices or sufferings, we should
not be diverted from our plan. Let our

trials be ever so severe, we should still
hold fast our integrity, and adopt the
language of the same Apostle and say,
14 Let none of these things move me."

Sincerity may and often does exist
without righteousness ; but righteous-
ness cannot exist without sincerity.
Righteousness is that actual attainment
which sincerity is in desire and practice.
It is represented by the Apostle as a
breastplate — a piece of armour that was
of great importance when in battle.
Nor can its importance be more strongly
implied than in the words of the Pro-
phet Isaiah. In speaking of Jesus, he
says — 44 He put on righteousness as a
breastplate," shewing us very clearly
that if the Son of God, who could not
sin, secured himself against the foe,
Jjow necessary it is for the Saints to
wear it ; for it is evident that, without
it, they would be exposed to great
danger from the enemy of souls ; and
when the Saint is aided with this power,
his disposition is changed, and ne can
then resist the powers of the Evil One
to which he may be exposed from day
to day. It makes sin appear to
him in its true form ; and, like Joseph
of old, when tempted, he can say, 44 How
can I do this great wickedness, and sin
against God P" When righteousness thus
defends the soul, it will strengthen our
weaknesses, and the Lord himself has
promised to be a sun and a shield to
those who walk uprightly.

The Apostle also says, 44 Stand, there-
fore, having your feet shod with the
preparation of the gospel of peace."
Righteousness always brings peace to $he
conscience, giving a readiness to do the
will of God, and a delight in his law.
The path of true religion is a path of ,

Digitized by

Google

EX8T0RY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

325

peace and pleasantness. The most self-
denying principles or precepts are then
regarded as a duty owed to a wise and
indulgent parent. True Saints willingly
comply with every righteous require-
ment with cheerful obedience, as dutiful
children, only seeking to* know the
Divine will that they may do it with
delight. They are at all times willing
to conform to His holy will, believing
that he knows best what is really good
for them. When this is our condition,
we feel that we can lie passive yi his
hands, and are willing to respond to the
counsels of his servants, feeling grateful
that we have some one to direct us. We
thus feel desirous of putting away
every evil, overlooking the failings of
oar brethren and sisters, and trying to
assist them and comfort them in their

afflictions, realizing that we are not
living for ourselves alone, and trying
to do all the good we can to our fellow-
creatures, especially those who are of the
household of faith.

The Saints of God who are seeking
for the gifts and graces of the Gospel
will have them, and the Spirit of the
Lord will rest upon them in rich
abundance, and they will rejoice in the
religion of the Saviour. They will
realize the truth of the Saviour's words
— " My yoke is easy, and my burden is
light."

May the Lord enable us thus to live,
that we may ever have on the whole
armour of righteousness, till faith shall
be lost in sight, and hope be consum-
mated in enjoyment.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued frontpage 313.)

The number of members and autho-
rities of each Conference being ascer-
tained as nearly as possible, it was
determined that the delegates should
represent the condition of each Con-
ference, and what alterations or
measures were necessary to be adopted
for the weilbeing of each other.

Elder Charles Miller having remarked
that he had been challenged to discussion,
and had accepted it, it led to some remarks
from Elder Ward as to the very little good
effected in general by discussions ; and that
it was beneath the servants of God to
turn aside from the path of duty to
wrangle and dispute like the people of the
world; and that while the professors of
modern religion were in a manner devouring
each other, the path of the Saints ought to
be onward in the proclamation of the prin-
ciples of truth.

Elder Hedlock agreed with the remarks
of Elder Ward, andstated that they were in
perfect accordance with the advice of the
First Presidency, and that the evil ought to
be guarded against as much as possible.

Elder George Mitchelson then arose to
state that the work of the Lord in the
Liverpool Conference was progressing slowly.

The condition of North Wales being stated
by Elder Joseph Martin, it was proposed by
Elder Ward, and carried, that Elder Martin
be permitted to ordain to the lesser Priest-
hood such officers as he may feel led by the
Spirit to be necessary.

EVENING MEETING.

The meeting being opened s by Elder
Charles Miller with singing and prayer,
Elder John Banks rose to state the condi-
tion of the Preston Conference. The Church,
he said, had been much harassed, as well as
much blessed previously, it having been the
place where the standard of the fulness of
the Gospel had been first planted in these
islands in the last days. It had also been
the subject of the attacks of the enemy in an
extraordinary manner. Many had also
emigrated, and Satan appeared to have
singled some of them out for his victims,
through whose influence at times much
evil had been done ; but, notwithstanding
all this, the condition of the Preston Con-
ference, with the exception of the distant
Branches in the north, was in a much
better condition than for a long time past ;
and he trusted it would ultimately overcome,
and be eminently successful in gathering in
the honest in heart.

Moved by Elder Ward, and seconded by
Elder Charles Miller, that Elder John
Banks be ordained to the office of High
Priest, to preside over the Preston Confer-
ence. Carried.

Elder John Cairns said the London
Conference was at present in a good state,
the officers united, and the Saints generally
rejoicing in the truth.

Elder James Galley spoke on the condi-
tion of the Macclesfield Conference, stating
that while some of the Saints were not in a

Digitized by

326

HISTOHY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

good condition, they had many that were ;
that there was so much false religion
in the neighbourhood that the principles of
truth were hard to be received, while the
people generally were in much slavery to
the landowners, and dared not open their
doors for preaching; yet, notwithstanding
all things, he still considered they had a
good prospect of success, as the officers and
Saints generally were determined to be
united in rolling onward the work of the
Lord.

Elder Crook stated that in the Birming-
ham Conference they had much union and
love; that by experience and discipline,
and a little whipping now and then, he had
learned what weapon to use in the service
of the. Lord, in order to be successful, and
that was the first principles ; for those he
found to be irresistiole.

Moved by Elder T. Smith, seconded by
Elder Crook, that Calthorpe, Leamington,
and Stratford-upon-Avon, now included in
the Birmingham Conference, be transferred
to the Worcestershire Conference. Carried.

Moved by Elder Ward, and voted, that the
Branches of Wooden Box, Dunstall, Brad-
stone, Barton, and Colebille be organized
into a Conference, to be called the Derby-
shire Conference ; and that Elder William
Cooper Royle preside over the same.

Also voted that Elder Cook be ordained
to the office of High Priest, to preside over
the Birmingham Conference.

Also moved by Elder Ward, and voted,
that the Branches of Beaufort, Rumney,
Tredegar, Merthyr Tydvil, and Aberdare be
organized into a Conference, to be called the
Merthyr Tydvil Conference ; and that Elder
William Henshaw preside over the same.

Sunday morning, 7. — The meeting being
opened by singing, and prayer by Elder
Ward, the business of considering the state
of the various Conferences was resumed.

Elder George P. Waugh remarked upon
the condition of the Edinburgh Conference
— that it was much better than it had been,
but. that a change of labourers would be of
especial benefit.

Elder Ward remarked that, were the
officers of the Church of one heart and of
one mind, their ministry would be effectual,
whether they were assisted by foreign aid or
not ; that success could never be expected
while individuals were seeking the gratifica-
tion of their own private feelings.

Elder Hedlock spoke on the evil of ordain-
ing officers to sit in council merely, and
exhorted the presiding Elders to select only
such as had the opportunity of labouring
and becoming useful in the kingdom of God.

The mission of Elder John Cairns, voted
in the Council of the Twelve in Nauvoo to
go to Scotland, was then laid before the

Conference for their acceptance, and con-
firmed by a unanimous vote.

Elder George Simpson remarked that the
Staffordshire Conference was varied in its
condition, but much better than some time
ago. The influence of evil reports had been
much felt by them ; but he rejoiced to say
that the Presidents of the various Branches
were much united.

Elder Blakey stated that the Garaway
Conference hacl been much disorganized,
but that it was now progressing; the
Conference was very extensive; and that
he frequently had to walk over eighty miles
to obtain the Millennial Stars !

It was moved by Elder Ward, and seconded
by Elder Cairns, that Abergavenny, now
attached to this Conference, be united to
the Merthyr Tydvil Conference, under the
Presidency of Elder Henshaw.

Elder Houston stated that the Glasgow
Conference was in a good condition, and the
officers were united.

It was then proposed by Elder Hedlock,
and seconded by Elder Thomas Ward, that
Elder James Ure be appointed to preside
over the Sheffield Conference, and that he
be ordained to the office of High Priest
Carried unanimously.

Elder William Speakman said, in the
Bradford Conference, the Saints were much
united, and that the prospects generally
were very cheering, although some time
ago they had been under the necessity of
cutting many off.

Elder Reuben Hedlock remarked, that on
the practice of cutting off members of the
Church ; that in many cases it was done in
much too summary a manner; that the
Elders should bear "in mind that they were
to be the saviours of men, and not their
destroyers. He would admonish them
against the establishment of by-laws, which
in many cases had been the cause of much
evil; and individuals had been separated
from the body of Christ for the violation of
laws which the kingdom of God never
recognized. He exhorted the officers to
diligence in their labours, to the practice
of righteousness and holiness, that they
might secure the esteem of the Saints, and
that their counsel might be sought after and
be adhered to.

Elder Thomas Ward remarked on the
people of God, who, from the darkness that
beclouds the religious world, had been
brought into the marvellous light of the ful-
ness of the Gospel, wherein we rejoiced,
and for which the gratitude of our hearts
must ever be offered ; and urged the Elders
to measure, by this reflection as a standard,
the dire consequences of being separated
from the Church of Christ.

Digitized by

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

327

AFTERNOON SERVICE.

Meeting opened with singing. Prayer
by Elder Mitchelson, and singing, when
Elders McGuffie and Domville were
called upon to administer the ordinance
of the Lord's Supper.

The congregation being numerous,
and many strangers present, the busi-
ness of the Conference was postponed,
and the afternoon was occupied very
profitably by Elders Cairns, Crook,
Henshaw, Margetts, and Miller, and
Priest Walker, bearing testimony to the
truth of the work of the Lord.

EVENING SERVICE.

This service was opened with singing and
prayer hy Elder Hedlock, who proceeded to
address the assembly on the principles of the
Church, on his experience for eleven years
in connection with it ; also on the order of
the kingdom of God, and the manner of sit-
ting in judgment on matters that required
it. He exhorted all persons to the adoption
of the Scriptural mode of settling differences
— to the practice of humility, that we might
be exalted in the due time of the Lord. He
enlarged on the greatness of the plan of
salvation — on the importance of the truths
committed to the officers of preaching those
principles which would prove to all either a fc
savour of life unto life or of death unto
death. He admonished them to beware in
what manner they handled the word of life,
and to take heed that their garments were
clear of the blood of this generation. He
urged upon them faithfulness in the work in
which they were engaged, that they might
be found worthy to be endowed with greater
power to go forth to bind up the law and
seal up the testimony, that the end might
come.

Monday, 8. — The meeting was opened
by singing, and prayer by Elder John
Cairns.

Moved by Elder Ward, seconded by Elder
Miller, that Elder Blakey be appointed to
preside over the Garaway Conference..
Carried.

Voted that Elder Struthers be appointed
to preside over the Bedfordshire Conference
for the time being.

Elder Hedlock spoke at some length on
the duties of the High Priesthood, on the
evil of by-laws, and the. cutting off of
members for the violation of them, — on the
honouring of each person in his office, and
of the equality of privileges in council
enjoyed by the Priesthood; also, on the
duties of Priests and Teachers visiting the
members, that it be done in the spirit of
love.

Clitheroe Conference was stated by Elder
Snalam to be in a good condition.

AFTERNOON SERVICE.

Elder Hedlock having called for such
volunteers as could go out to labour in the
vineyard, Elder James Sloan came forward,
and being asked whether he at present
wished to go home to Nauvoo, or to labour
in the ministry, he declared it to be his wish
to #0 out and preach.

Elder Thomas Margetts having stated that
the prospects in Leicester and the surround-
ing country were of the most encouraging
kind, it was voted that , Leicester and Not-
tingham and the surrounding country be
organized into a Conference, to be called the
Leicestershire Conference ; and that Elder
Thomas Margetts preside over the same.

Voted that Elder Thomas Harris go and
labour about the neighbourhood of Lancaster,
under the direction and Presidency of Elder
John Banks.

Also voted that Elder George P. Waugh
be appointed to preside over the FroomshiU
Conference.

Voted also that Elder John Johnson be
appointed to preside over the Cheltenham
Conference.

Voted that Priest William Walker be
ordained an Elder, and be appointed to
labour in Hull.

EVENING SERVICE.

The meeting being opened by sing-
ing and prayer, the appointment of
Elder Hedlock, in connection with Elder
Ward, to the Presidency of the churches
in this land, was read from the minutes of
the Council of the Twelve, held in
Nauvoo, when the sanction of the
Conference was called for and given
unanimously.

Elder Ward then proceeded to lay the
state of the Presidency in the British Isles
before the Church. He remarked that he,
in connection with Elder Hedlock, felt the
greatest anxiety that the position of the
Presidency should be thoroughly understood,
and that all the business and proceedings of
the same should be conducted in such a
manner as to be open to the inspection of
all. They were at present labouring under
considerable difficulties, in consequence of so
many demands made upon their resources
by the authorities of Nauvoo, in sending
over a number of families at the expense of
the means arising from the emigration
department. He rejoiced to state that any
profits arising from business in Liverpool
were to be subject to the order of the authori-
ties at Nauvoo, and that they had given us
directions to send all the poor Saints, and
that they should truly rejoice, in appro-

Digitized by

328

HISTORY OF JOSEPH 8MITH.

priating any means in their hands for that
purpose.

Elder Walker spoke on upholding the
Presidency, and eloquently expressed his
confidence in the same.

Elder Cairns spoke on the purchase of the
Tarious publications. He remarked that
the sale of the publications was absolutely
necessary in order that the work of the Lorcl
may roll onward— -that it was a great mis-
take to suppose that, because the Saints
purchased the publications, they would
therefore not contribute as much for the
support of those who laboured amongst
them. He was not afraid of this. Only let the
Saints be thoroughly imbued with the prin-
ciples contained in the publications, and he
knew that they would be prepared to act in
righteousness, and would never forget that
the labourer was worthy of his hire. He
had found^our publications hid up in a cup-
board, the Saints not knowing that there
were such ; but he had made it a rule to
take them with him to the meetings, and
the consequence was that he disposed of
them. Strangers became interested in the
principles of truth by their perusal, and the
saints became more "open-hearted and ready
to minister unto those who laboured amongst
them.

Elder Galley spoke on liberality and
benevolence being exercised, with full con-
fidence in God, and related several anec-
dotes illustrative of the subject.

Elder Allen having spoken on the same
subject,

Voted unanimously — " That this Confer-
ence, now assembled, covenant to stand by
and uphold the Presidency in England, by
our prayers on their behalf, and also by
pecuniary aid." •

Elder Hedlock then addressed the assem-
bly on the subject of the publications, and
was desirous of taking the sense of that
meeting on the same. It was true that the
Quorum of the Twelve had advised that the
publication of the Millenni al Star be stopped,
and had given him authority to publish a
circular as occasion might require ; but he be-
lieved most sincerely that the stoppage of the
Star would have a most injurious tendency.

Several having spoken to the same effect,
Elder Ward remarked that, if a publication
was to be issued at all, it appeared trifling
with the interest of the cause to change the
name, inasmuch as the Office had received
the name of the Millennial Star Qffice %
and many letters came to them with that
address.

Moved by Elder Cairns, and voted by
unanimous acclamation, "That this Con-
ference request the Quorum of the Twelve
to permit the continued publication of the
Millennial Star. 11

Moved bv Elder Ward, and seconded by
Elder Webb, that Priest William Bayliss
, be ordained to the office of an Elder.
Carried.

{To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, May 25, 1861.

THE LAST SHIP OP THE SEASON.

The packet-ship Monarch of the Sea, Captain William R. Gardner, sailed from
this port for New York on the morning of the 16th instant, having onboard about
960 of the Saints, being, we believe, the largest number of Saints that have
ever been shipped upon one vessel. The company was composed of various
nationalities — people from Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and
Switzerland, &c, &c. ; those from the Scandinavian nations being the most
numerous. Elder Jabez Woo^ard was appointed President of the company,
and Elders Hans 0. Hansen and Niels Wilhelmscn were appointed his Counsellors.

Elder Woodard was called on a mission to Europe at a General Conference
of the Church held at Great Salt Lake City, April 6th, 1857. Since his arrival
in Europe he has been labouring in the Swiss and Italian Mission, having had the
Presidency of that Mission a greater portion of the time. The Lord has been
with him in his ministratiqns, and his efforts have been crowned with much

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

329

success ; and though he has had much to contend with in that country, in conse-
quence of the little liberty and toleration existing in matters of religion, yet he
has been kept out of the power and hands of his enemies, and free from the effects
of their wicked machinations.

Elder Hans 0. Hansen left the Valley in the spring of I860, to attend to
business in Norway. While there, he laboured faithfully in the ministry.
Elder Niels Wilhelmsen has been actively engaged in the Scandinavian Mission,
visiting the various Branches and Conferences, and doing all in his power to
build up the Saints. Recently he has been acting as President of the Copenhagen
Conference.

There are a number of Elders from Scandinavia who have been engaged in
the ministry as Presidents of Conferences, Travelling Elders, &c, on board
the Monarch of the Sea, on their way to Zion ; also several who have been engaged
in the ministry in Great Britain. Among the former are Elders Jens Ncilsen,
Gustavus Ohlsen, and Saamund Gudmundsen. Among the latter are Elders
Samuel Francis, William H. Kelsey, E. L. T. Harrison, Edward Reid, and
Thomas Smith. These brethren have hailed the day of their deliverance — long
looked for by them — with much gladness.

Early on the morning of the 16th, before the ship sailed, the Presidency of the
Mission, with others of the Priesthood, met with the Saints, and gave them such
items of counsel and instruction as were adapted to their circumstances, Elders
John Van Cott, Jabez Woodard, and John L. Smith interpreting in Danish,
German, and French. An excellent spirit prevailed, and all felt to rejoice. It
was a truly interesting spectacle to witness the assembling together of so many
members of different families of nations on one ship — no less than ten nationalities
being represented — all actuated by one motive, all possessed of one faith, filled
with the spirit of love and union, going to Zion in fulfilment of words spoken
by Inspiration of the Almighty many centuries ago. If signs and wonders would
convince this generation of the truth, there would be no room for doubt after
witnessing the oneness of faith, the unanimity of feeling, and the singleness of
purpose that pervaded the minds of men and women in this company of Saints.
Brought together from various nations, educated in different beliefs, with
different views and prejudices, they were nevertheless, through obedience to the
truth, able to see alike, to rejoice in the one hope, and to move forward, actuated
by one impulse, for the accomplishment of the same object ; all able to bear the
same testimony in their various languages that God had revealed his Gospel in
purity and power from the heavens, and had, through his servant Joseph Smith,
re-established his Church on the earth in these days. And this has been
accomplished through the blessing of the Lord upon the labours of poor, unlearned,
but yet Heaven-authorized and richly-endowed men ! Men seek for signs, asking the
servants of the Lord to show them, that they may believe ; yet this is a sign which
.is comparatively unnoticed, but which ought to be patent to the world, and
sufficient to cause them to acknowledge that it must be the truth — the pure
Gospel of Jesus — which brings forth such fruits. •

The prospects are good, at present, for a heavier emigration next year than we
have had this, albeit the present season's emigration is much larger than was
anticipated a few months ago. Already, as we are informed by brother Van
Cott, have the Saints in Scandinavia commenced to make their preparations for
emigration next season. There is but little if any need in that country to preach
the gathering to the Saints ; they are full of it, and spare no exertions to get off.

330

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS.

The increase there these past six months has been quite as large as all the
season's emigration, and prospects are good for a continued accession of numbers.
The number which have emigrated this season from this Mission we accept as
ominous of good and an indication of improving health. There have been but a
few short of two thousand emigrated, and mostly by their own faith and exertions.
They have borne a powerful testimony to their neighbours by "fleeing from
Babylon, and they have also made room for the work to grow and spread dbroad.
We expect it to increase steadily, extending its influence farther and farther,
and embracing within its pale the meek and honest in heart everywhere. It
is no time now for the Saints^to be asleep on the watch-tower. All the faith
that can be mustered should be put into exercise to bring about their
deliverance, and not only their own deliverance, but the deliverance of their
brethren and sisters.

That the Lord may bless the Saints who have emigrated this season under all
circumstances, and preserve them from every danger and from every enemy
that may seek their injury, and bring them to Zibn in safety to rejoice with the
Saints there, is our earnest prayer.

Arrival. — We had the pleasure an Monday, the 13th instant, of welcoming
Elder William S. God be to these shores. He landed from the mail-steamship
Niagara. Brother Godbe left Great Salt Lake City on the 29th March on
business in the United States and this country, occupying nineteen days in reaching
St. Joseph, Missouri, and forty-five days in reaching this point. He was detained
some few days in the States. He reports everything as prosperous in Zion.
The people are rejoicing exceedingly in their religion, and attending strictly to ita
duties.

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS.

The following is an editorial article extracted from the columns of an
American paper — The New York Bee. It would indeed be well for the people
of that nation, and every other professing to be "Christian," if they would
give timely heed to the Scriptural "rule" referred to.

this nation has entered. He was requested
to read it, which he did from a small book
or pamphlet published in Washington by
Orson Pratt some seven years ago. We
requested a copy of it ; but as it was the only
one the gentleman had in his possession, we
could not then obtain it. We have made
several efforts since to get a copy of it, and
have succeeded in procuring one from a
gentleman in John -street, who informed us
that it was published in Liverpool in 1851,
in a work entitled " The Pearl of Great
Price." We take the revelation from a
periodical published in Liverpool, entitled
the Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star.
The date of the number before us is Satur-
day, February 16, 1861. We preface the
prediction by a paragraph from the article
in which it appears in the Star before us.,
It reads : —

" Twenty-eight years to a day prior to
Governor Pickens' proclamation to the
world that the State of South Carolina was

A REMARKABLE EEVELATION-r-WAS
JOSEPH SMITH A TRUE PROPHET?

Paul's injunction to the primitive church
was, not to despise prophecy, but to hear all
things, and hold fast that which is good.
As modern churches profess great reverence
for Paul, they cannot object to his rule for
the examination of prophecies. The rule
Moses laid down for the children of Israel
to judge of Prophets and prophecies was
the fulfilment of the thing prophesied; and
the same rule may be applied to the people
of this day who believe the Scriptures.
But to the prediction referred to.

A short tune since, we were in company
with others at a friend's house spending
the evening. In the course of conversation,
which turned upon the then approaching
troubles, a gentleman observed that he had
in his possession a revelation given to
Joseph Smith twenty-eight years ago, setting
forth the condition of things upon which

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

331

free and independent, and owed allegiance
no longer to the United States, the Prophet
Joseph Smith received the following import-
ant revelation concerning the fate that
awaited the United States and the other
nations of the earth : —

1 Verily, thus saith the Lord, concerning
the wars that will shortly come to pass,
begin uing at the rebellion of South Carolina,
which will eventually terminate in the
death and misery of many souls. The days
will come when war will be poured out
upon all nations, beginning at that place ;
for, behold, the Southern States shall be
divided against the Northern States, and
the Southern States will call on other
nations, even the nation of Great Britain,
as it is called ; and they shall also call upon
other nations, in order to defend themselves
against other nations, and thus war shall be
poured out upon all nations. And it shall
come to pass, after many days, slaves shall
rise up against their masters, who shall be
marshalled and disciplined for war. And it
shall come to pass also that the remnants
that are left of the land will marshal them-
selves, and shall become exceeding angry,
and shall vex the Gentiles with a sore vexa-

tion; and thus, with the sword and by
bloodshed, the inhabitants of the earth shall
mourn ; and with famine, and plague, and
earthquakes, and the thunder of heaven,
and the fierce and vivid lightning also, shall
the inhabitants of the earth be made to feel
the wrath and indignation and chastening
hand of an Almighty God, until the con-
sumption decreed hath made a full end of
all nations, that the cry of the Saints and
the blood of the Saints shall cease to come
up into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth,
from the earth, to be avenged of their
enemies. Wherefore, stand ye in holy
places, and be not moved, until the day of
the Lord come ; for, behold, it cometh
quickly, saith the Lord. Amen.' "

These people calling themselves Latter-
day Saints ascribe our national difficulties
to other causes than those held by the people
generally. They hold that they have been
cruelly persecuted by the States and the
nation, and upon the principle which Christ
taught — viz : " The measure you mete unto
others shall be measured unto you again."
We cannot expect to escape the chastisements
of a just God, the Great Ruler of all
nations.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Birmingham, May 7, 1S61.
Dear Brother Cannon, —

1 feel it my duty to give to you a
sueciiict report of this Conference as I
tradei stand it.

The Saints are generally alive to their
duties, and are enjoying the spirit of the
work to an eminent degree. The pre-
siding Elders are intelligent and faith-
ful men, willing to obey counsel, and to
be as fathers to the Saints. The whole
of the Priesthood, with but few excep-
tions, feel determined to exercise the
functions of their callings ; and I
endeavour to encourage them and
instil in them the spirit of the Priest-
hood in Zion. They feel well in
their administrations, and God blesses
their exertions. I keep them employed
as far as I can ; and I have no doubt
that, when the season opens, thousands
will hear the testimony of the brethren
in this country.

As I have no Travelling Elder in this
Conference but myself, I send good men
from here to the several Branches, and

they are well received, and they are
doing a very good work. The Saints
are happy to receive them, and the
lassitude consequent upon the emigra-
tion exeitement, and so many good
Travelling Elders leaving, is removed,
and a good work is being steadily per-
formed.

I preach much myself, and I feel
much of the Spirit Of Gtocf in my humble
attempts to enunciate the truth, and
deliver testimonies to- the spirit, virtue,
goodness, and salvation of Zion. I
will not have an unemployed Priesthood.
I show examples of industry in that
respect, and I sometimes almost wish
that I could divide myself into a dozen
pieces, and be engaged in as many
places ; not that I feel my importance
as something superior, but I am
anxious to visit and build up the
Saints, and use any little influence and
power I possess to do good. I, have
visited several parties who were once
with us and possessed honest hearts,
but who, through some frivolous cause,
have separated ; and I am happy to say

Digitized by

332

CORRESPONDENCE.

that they are generally disposed to obey,
and obtain the spirit of the truth,
without which, they say, they have ex-
perienced but little happiness. I
am well received and treated kindly by
all.

We are baptizing every week — some
that were formerly members, and some
who have received the word for the
first time. We fully expect to do a
good work this year. If we do not, it
will not be because wo will not try. All
are willing and enjoy a good spirit;
and I have faith that, under such cir-
cumstances, God will own and prosper
his own work.

This is an interesting time to us all.
The state of the political world, east
and west, is momentous to the Saints,
and indicative of great results for the
advancement of our race, the spread of
truth, and the accomplishment of the

Surposes of God, according to the pre-
iction of the Prophets, both ancient
and modern. May we have wisdom
and power to accelerate the good work,
and effect much good in our day and
generation, is my prayer, in Jesus'
name.

Yours very truly,

W. G. Mills.

Nottingham, May 17, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Matters are moving
here just as usual. There is a gradual
increase of the Spirit among the people,
but the times are still hard with regard
to trade. There have been about thirty
baptisms in this District since my last
to you, and there are more names still
on the list of candidates of baptism.

I feel in my spirit to be onward, and
that is also the feeling of the Saints

fenerally. Brothers Nelson and Orme,
residents of Conferences, are feeling
well and are labouring with great zeaL
Brother Henry Duce, Travelling High
Priest in Derbyshire, feels first-rate,
and is like a father among the people.
Elder Charles Welsh and James Fail
are labouring faithfully in Leicestershire
Conference. Elder Joseph C. Rich is
labouring successfully in the Notting-
ham Conference, and he will assist me
in the financial labours of the District.
In a word, I believe that the Priesthood
generally begin to feel aroused to their

duties ; and my faith is that we shall
have a good time this summer. I am
thankful that the emigration season is
over, and we look forward with fond
anticipation to a visit from you to this
part.

Ever praying for the blessing of the
Lord to be sent upon you, Presidents
Lyman and Rich, and all the faithful,
I subscribe myself your brother in the
Gospel of peace,

Jambs S. Brown.

London, May 14, 1861.
President C annon.

Dear Brother, — I have just had the
pleasure of an interview with brother
William S. Godbe, who arrived to-day
direct from Salt Lake City. He seems,
though somewhat tanned and weather-
beaten, in fine spirits and excellent
condition. I received by him several
letters, which contain the gratifying
intelligence that all are well at home.

He reports the withdrawal of the last
fragment of the Federal forces from the
Territory, in consequence, I suppose, of
some little misunderstanding m the
South. But their place, from all
accounts, is ere this supplied by a much
more powerful detachment. I under-
stand that three distinguished officers
who recently left the United States have
arrived with all the available force they
could muster, who forthwith instituted
the most vigorous measures for the
seizure of Great Salt Lake City. They
are making extensive preparations for
a protracted campaign, as it is their un-
doubted determination to subjugate the
entire community. It appears that they
have avoided the error or Col. Johnston
in neglecting to provide suitably for
emergencies incident to winter cam-
paigns ; for their commissariat depart-
ment is most amply supplied with every
conceivable requisite, their discipline is
most admirable, and they are thoroughly
equipped in every particular.

When it is considered that this
formidable force, with all its extensive
appliances and provisions for a prolonged
siege, is already located within the
confines of the Territory, the prospect of
their speedy dislocation by the militia
of the various settlements appears
highly problematical.

Yet, strange as it may appear, the
people do not seem to be agitated in

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

333

the least! And notwithstanding the
rapid advance of those Generals with
their overwhelming forces, a feeling of
unbounded confidence and security,
almost inexplicable, seems to pervade
the minds of the entire community, (not
excepting President Young himself,)
whicn, if it be allowed to continue, will
entirely unfit them for any effective
opposition to the aggressive movements
of the invaders.

Yours truly,

Gborob J. Taylor.
P.S. Since writing the above, I
understand that Salt Lake City, together
with several places of minor importance,
have surrendered unconditionally, and
their inhabitants are completely at the
mercy of the following commanding
officers — viz., General Peace, General
Prosperity, and General Satisfaction.

G. J. T.

WALES.

Cardiff, May 13, 1861.

President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — By President Jeremy's
request, I write to inform you that a
Conference was held in the White Lion
Hall, Merthyr Tydfil, on Sunday, the
5th inst., a brief account of which may
not be altogether uninteresting.

We had three meetings during the
day, each of which was well attended.
In the afternoon and evening the
spacious hall was fully occupied, and a
very liberal degree of the Holy Spirit
was enjoyed by both speakers and
hearers.

President Jeremy, in his opening
address, presented Defore the Confer-
ence, in a truly interesting manner, the
object for which it was convened —
namely, to receive the reports of the
Branch President, and to make such
changes and appointments as the

Sowing interests of the work in this
ission may demand.
The Branches were then reported
generally in good condition, 28 having
been baptized during the last three
months, and favourable indications of
many more being added to the Church.

The time allotted for the afternoon
meeting was occupied in transacting
Conference business and preaching the
Gospel.

The general authorities of the Church

were then presented before the Confer-
ence in the usual manner, and were
sustained without one contrary vote or
dissenting voice, expressive indeed of
the unanimity of feeling and sentiment
that mankind is capable of attaining
unto, through yielding implicit obedience
to the pure and unadulterated Gospel of
Jesus, and walking in the footsteps of
living Apostles and Prophets, whom
God hath ordained to bring all true
believers to a correct understanding of
his Divine character, and of the origin of
man and his final destiny.

The following appointments were
made by President Jeremy, and voted
for by the whole Conference: — That
Elder George G. Bywater be his First,
and Elder David M. Davies his Second

Sounsellor in the Presidency of the
r elsh Mission. That Elder Thomas D.
Bees, late President of the Carnarvon-
shire Conference, succeed Elder John
Davies in the Presidency of the Merthyr
Conference, who was released to emi-
grate to Zion ; and that Elder Edward
Edwards labour in that Conference with
him as a Travelling Elder.

The Saints were then addressed by
Elders Bywater and Davies upon various
subjects, embracing within them the
present duties of the Saints, teaching
them to give diligent heed to the sound
of " Zion's Trumpet," and to live in the
light of our bright proemial luminary —
the Millennial Star.

President Jeremy followed in a kind
and fatherly manner, particularizing the
general instructions given, and directing
the attention of the Saints to the law of
Tithing, building of the Temple,
gathering of the poor, retrenchment of
Mission expenses, and other kindred
subjects, consonant with the instructions
given for the inculcation of those just
and holy principles upon the Saints
who are scattered abroad among the
nations of the earth.

The evening meeting was occupied by
Elder J. W. Morgan and President
Jeremy. Elder Morgan preached upon
the first principles of the Gospel in a
plain, clear, and effective manner.

The remainder of the time was occu-
pied by President Jeremy, who related
his early experience in the Church, the
circumstances through which he became
acquainted with the principles of the
Gospel, and the favourable impressions

Digitized by

334

that were made upon his mind; also
- many other interesting incidents that
characterized his subsequent history in
the Church, bearing testimony to the
truth of the Latter-day Work, and
remarking that while peace was being
withdrawn from the nations of the earth,
and anarchy, witli ail its attendant evils,
increasing on every hand, he was thank-
ful that a place had been ordained of
God upon the face of the earth
where right shall rule and peace
prevail.

The Holy Spirit was copiously poured
out upon the people. Many of the Saints
bore testimony that they had not enjoyed
themselves in a Conference so well for
several years past, many expressing
their desires to do all in their power, to
spread a knowledge of the truth among
their fellow-men, live their religion, anS
wait the due time of the Lord for their
deliverance, which was much nearer
than when they first believed.

Conference adjourned.

Not wishing to trespass upon your
columns, I conclude, praying that the
blessing of Almighty God our Heavenly
Father may ever rest upon you, and the
Spirit of inspiration ever flow from your
pen. I subscribe myself your brother
in the Gospel,

G. G. Bywater.

CORRESPONDENCE.

CHANNEL ISLANDS.
St. Heliers, Jersey, May 14, 1861.
President Cannon,

Dear Brother, — It is some time time
since we parted at Florence ; but I have
often thought of you. Although not
very familiar in our acquaintance, so
far as individuality is concerned, we
are nevertheless in the enjoyment of the
same spirit, willing to be useful in the
hands of God according to our particular
calling. I therefore desire to write a
few lines to you, hoping that you are in
all the enjoyment of health.

I am happy to see from the Star the
interest of the people in attending the
Saints' meetings in England; but I
cannot say it is so with us in this part
of the country. We have but very few
visitors, our meetings being generally
composed of the few Saints. It is
almost impossible to obtain an audience
with anybody. We are not molested
in our meetings, but have all the

privileges that we can desire, so
far.

I have endeavoured to take some of
our French works, and travel through
the country, trying to gain a foothold
somewhere, but have not been success-
ful. There seems to be no possibility
of penetrating the understanding of the
people.

As you said, some time ago, examples
go further than precepts. We do
endeavour to follow the same, and we
are united in our efforts. E lder Barnes,
President of this Mission, has been out
with me and brother Eugene while he
has been with us. He would have us
suggest anything that would be for the
good of the whole. I must say that
the Lord has been with us by his good
Spirit since we have been here. We
have endeavoured to teach the Saints
their duties, and the most of them are
endeavouring to do all that lies in their
power to leave ; for they see they are
bound to suffer with the wicked, if they
do not hasten from Babylon.

There are a few good Saints here,
some of whom have been in the Church
since first the Gospel was introduced in
these islands, about the same time that
I was made acquainted with the same
under the first mission of Elder
Dunbar.

I have endeavoured to persuade them
that if they abstained from their strong
tea and many other things that they
could do well without, and applied their
means to their own deliverance, many
of them would be able to go home to
Zion by next season; and many of
them seem determined to do it.

There are in these islands many that
had been in the Church, and went to
Utah, and have returned. Finding that
the riches did not come so fast as they
expected, they came back here to make
their fortune. They have brought a
spirit of slander with them, and that
took better with the masses of the peo-
ple than the truth.

We arc situated quite different to the
Elders in England. We are among a
group of islands, and have to travel in
boats, which makes it very expensive.
We cannot do so much leg-service as
so me of our brethren in England hav
to do. /

I can assure you, dear brother, that*
U is lonesome to be here, as you may

Digitized by

8UMMABY. VAKIETIE8.

336

Bay, shut up in a nutshell. Some
might not feel it as I do, having spent
some years in the land of freedom.
But I feel that it is not my will, but the
will of Him that sent me. Since I have
been here I have been supported by my
friends. They have been very kind to
me, but are not disposed to embrace
the Gospel. Since I have been in the
Mission, there have been a few added by
baptism. Those that have been in
the back ground I have endeavoured to
see, but without effect.

The Saints here are alike generally
poor. We have had to sever some
from the Church, for they would
not refrain from their evil habits, until
forbearance was' no longer a virtue.

Brother Eugene Henriod has left for
his new field of labour, and brother
Barnes has left for the island of
Guernsey. I was alone, and therefore
thought that I would communicate these
few Tines, praying the Lord to enable
me to be faithful in the discharge of all
my duties, and to prosper me in all
things.

I pray that the ever-shining influence
of the Holy Spirit may rest upon you,
that you may have power with the Lord
to enable you to fill that high and holy
vocation whereunto you nave been
called.

Yours in the Gospel of peace,

Philip De La Mare.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

AMERICAN.

President Lincoln has issued another pro-
clamation, calling for 42,000 volunteers,
23,000 for the regular army, and 18,000
seamen. A report on Federal relations,
very hostile to the Federal Government, has
passed the Maryland Legislature. The
majority of the committee are reported to
be secessionists.

Peru is in an exceedingly unsettled and
disorganized state. A revolution is hourly
expected to break out.

The West India mail brings further
details of the great earthquake at Mendoza,
and it is stated that 8,000 lives were lost.
Whole families were swept into eternity, and
those who escaped are left homeless and
starving. The catastrophe cast a gloom
over the whole of Chili, as many of the
leading families of Santiago, who had gone
to reside at Mendoza for political reasons,
have perished.

GENERAL.

Advices from Perugia, Italy, state that a
violent shock of an earthquake was felt in
that territory on the 6th instant : several
persons were killed. A letter from Borne
states that the* Emperor of Russia has
written to the Pope, begging him to issue a
brief to the Polish Catholics. Enlistments
of soldiery for Bourbon service and the

vexatious interference of the police continue
at Rome. The Bourbon party at Rome are
preparing fresh expeditions to the Abnizzi.
Naples and the provinces are quiet. 100,000
ducats, destined to pay the reactionary
bands, have been seized at the house of a
person attached to the Bourbon party. A
depdt of spoil, the result of the late

C* idering expedition of the reactionary
ds, has been discovered at Isernia,
Intelligence* has been received from
Glarus, Switzerland, to the effect that that <
town has been in flames. More than 150
houses have been already destroyed, includ-
ing public buildings and even several fire
engines.

The news from New Zealand announces
that tilings were looking more pacific. An
armistice of 48 hours had been granted to
the natives. The latest accounts from
Taranki are to the 12th March, and up to
that date there had been a continued inter-
change of shots with the enemy. The tactics
of General Pratt had for some time been
drawing them in. The Maoris, on every
occasion, had been repulsed with loss.

A board of foreign affairs has been estab-
lished by the Chinese Government, which
is regarded as a very important step, and as
an official abandonment of the old principle
of refusing to have intercourse with other
nations on terms of equality.

VARIETIES.

Maxims for Married Ladebs >— " 1. Avoid all thoughts of managing your husband.
2. Never try to deceive or impose upon his understanding, nor give him uneasiness ; but
treat him with affection, sincerity, and respect. 3. Remember that husbands at best are
only men, and subject, like yourselves, to error and frailty. Be not too sanguine, then,
before marriage, or promise yourselves happiness without alloy. 4. Should you discover

Digitized by

336

VARIETIES. POETRY. ADDRESSES.

anything in your husband's humour or behaviour not altogether what you expected or
wish, pass it over. Smooth your own temper, and try to mend his attention, cheerfulness,
and good nature. 5. Never reproach him with misfortunes, which are the accident* and
infirmities of human life— a burden that each has engaged to aid the other in sunporting,
and to which both parties are equally exposed ; but, instead of murmuring and reflections,
divide the sorrow between you, make the best of it, and it will be easier to both. 6. It is
the innate office of the softer sex to soothe the troubles of the other. 7. Resolve every
morning to be cheerful that day ; and should anything occur to break your resolution,
suffer it not to put you out of temper with your husband. 6. Dispute not with him ; but
much rather deny yourself the trilling satisfaction of having your own will, or gaining the
better of an argument, than risk a quarrel or create a heartburning, which it is impossible
to foresee the end of. 9. Implicit submission in a man to his wife is ever disgraceful to
both ; but implicit submission in a wife to the just will of her husband is what she
promised at the altar — what the good will revere her for, and what is in fact the greatest
honour she can receive. 10. Be assured a woman's power, as well as her happiness, has no
other foundation than her husband's esteem and love, which it is her interest by all possible
means to preserve and increase. 11. Enjoy with him his satisfaction, share ana soothe
his cares, and with the utmost assiduity conceal his infirmities. 12. If you value your
own and your husband's ease, let your expenses and desires be ever within the reach of bis
circumstances; for if poverty should follow, you must share the evil. 13. Be careful
never to give him any cause of jealousy. 14. Let not many days pass without a serious
examination into your conduct as a wife ; and if, on reflection, you find yourself guilty of
any foibles or omissions, the best atonement is to be more careful in future." — London
Journal.

POETRY.

"NIL DESPERANDUM."

Never despair ! Though your pathway be clouded, Never despair ! Though the poisen of Blander

And ills like a locust-flight darken your track, Should turn your most cherished friend's stall* to a

Ifeath the thick gloom may bright blessings Me frown,

shrouded : Ne'er to deceit or hypocrisy pander:
On ! if your course he right; never turn back. Malice will sink in scorn ; truth wins the crewn.
Live fbr the hopes that grow ; live for the truth yon Foes may malign you, and perils entwine year-
know ; False friends prove traitors, for true friends u* rare :
' Live for the ffctth you with hoty ones share : Reck not the ill they do, ever be firm and true,
' Brave hearts wiH struggle on ; night must precede Live fbr the future, and never despair !

Never despair ! Though the tempest may shatter Night's darkest hour is to morning the aeeW »

The bark of your best hopes on life's ocean wave— wak for the light, and in Providence trust

Though adversity's ride winds the loose fragments The sun, when he sinks from view, rolli on to rise

, scatter, ' <\ * anew;

Still cling to the lone plank, and struggle to save : Troth hid from sight will yet shine forth m fair:

Buffet the waves with might, Obd ever helps the right ; Live to enjoy the light, walk in the path of right ;

Tempests nfust slacken, and black skies grow fair : Heaven smiles o'er it : then never despair !
Honour will live to do; rectitude still be true:

Gling to the right, then, and never despair !

Liverpool. S. L. Sloas.

Addbbsbks. -Joseph C. Rich, care of James Oakey, Skinner Street, Mansfield Road, Nottingham.

William Hopwood, 5, Walker's Buildings, New Park Road, Castle Fields, Shrewsbury.

: ■ \, : _

CONTENTS.

Design of God in the Constitution of Man 311 —Wales : Letter from Elder Bywater.— Jersey :

Withstand the Wiles of Satan 324 Letter from Elder De La Mare. ^ H 1

History of Joseph Smith 825 8ammary of News and Passing Events **

Editoria'.— The Last Ship of the Season.— Arrival 3*8 Varieties ~ ***

Opinions of the Press 330 Poetry.—* 4 NO Desperandum - ~& 3*

Correspondence— England : Letters from Elders Addresses ~ « lilN

W. G. Mills, J. S. Brown, and George J. Taytor.

LTVEUPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 48, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET. CROSS STRE5T,
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. .

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

"A noise shaE come even to the ends of the earth; far the Lord hath a c o nt rov ert ! with the nations: he wM
plead with aU flesh; he wiU give them that are wicked to the sword, smith the Xord."— Jkkxmuh.

No. 22, Vol. XZm. Saturday, June 1, 1861. Price One Penny.

PROPRIETY OP ABANDONING NATIONAL PREJUDICES.

One of the effects that should follow
the preaching of the Gospel is the ele-
vation of its believers above the little,
narrow feelings so common for many
people to indulge in. Its believers should
have largeness of soul, so that instead
of looking upon the little spot of earth
where they have happened to find being
as containing everything that is beauti-
ful and grand, and upon the race whence
they have sprung as possessing all that
is great and noble, they can look abroad
upon the whole earth, and feel that it
is their birthplace ; and upon the family
of man, feeling that though inhabiting
different regions, and in some instances
speaking different languages, they are
nevertheless brethren who have sprung
from one lineage, all being equal
recipients of the Divine goodness. Un-
less this be the feeling possessed by
those who have embraced the Gospel,
they have failed to profit by its lessons.
One of the designs in its revelation is
to make those who embrace it homoge-
neous.

The mission of the Gospel is to make
men one — to make them citizens of one
kingdom — namely, the kingdom of
their Father and Creator. All lands
are to contribute their quota to that
kingdom, to the increase of which there
is.to be no end. It will collect its con-
verts, not from one nation and country
alone, but from every nation, kindred,

tongue, and people. And the man who
imagines that his nation or race is better
than others, and therefore entitled to
some peculiar advantages over every
other country's people, renders himself
incapable of appreciating the extent of
the salvation the Lord has extended to
his children. We have noticed consi-
derable of this national feeling among
those who have been inexperienced in
the Gospel ; and we have also heard of
its existence among those who ought to
have had sufficient experience to have
known better. We have heard of it in
this country manifesting itself among
native Elders, in jealousy of the
Elders from Zion; though we are
of* the opinion that it has* not, in
every instance, been so much because
they were Americans as because
those who manifested this illiberality
have been 1 afraid that their influence
would outweigh their own. We are
borne out in this latter opinion by the
fact that this feeling which we allude
to is exhibited by the members but
very little, if at all, being only witnessed
in the Priesthood. But from what
source soever this feeling may originate,
it is unworthy of a man holdinga
membership in the Church of God. We
never saw a person influenced by a
contracted, illiberal feeling of this land,
but possessed a narrowness of soul that
I would seek to limit the salvation of the
Digitized by Google

338 TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MOHMONISM."

Almighty, and not let it extend beyond
the horizon that bounded his own short-
sighted vision.

Those who embrace the Gospel in sin-
cerity and meekness, of whatever land
or race they may be, become citizens
of the kingdom of God. Everything that
is written — the whole spirit of the Gospel
is at war with national distinctions, ex-
cepting in the case of the accursed seed.
It ever breathes the sentiment expressed
by Peter — 44 In every nation, he that
feareth Him, and worketh righteousness,
is accepted with Him ;" or it linds utter-
ance in the words of Paul — 44 There is
neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor
uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian,
bond nor free ; for ye are all one in
Christ Jesus." Though God has made
distinction in lineage, those distinctions
have been created by faithfulness or
unfaithfulness on the part of the family or
man in whose favour or against whom
they were made. Originally all stood alike
before Hira. In the beginning the Lord
could say to the man, who afterwards
became a marked and an accursed man in
the earth, and through whom that curse
has been entailed upon posterity, 44 lf thou
doest well, shait thou not be accepted ?"
Any unfavourable distinction that might
concern him and his posterity was made
by himself 44 not doing well/ 7 and caus-
ing sin to lie at- his door. But the
favoured seed has been scattered among
the nations, so that heirs to the promises
through the lineage of the fathers might
be found in every land, who could stand
forth as saviours upon Mount Zion for
their kinsfolk, and who could make the

vault of heaven reverberate with the
new songj, part of which is to be —
44 Thou hast redeemed us to God by thy
blood out of every kindred, and tongue,
and people, and nation."

In the latter dispensation — the dis-
pensation of the fulness of times — they
who are heirs to the Priesthood, out
of every nation, are to be amalgamated.
National distinctions, national preju-
dices, and the great variety of manners
and customs growing out of these dis-
tinctions and prejudices, are to be swal-
lowed up and obliterated. It will not
be the place of birth nor the race that
will confer honour upon the man who
associates himself with the kingdom of
the last days ; but it will be his virtues
and integrity, his faithfulness and con-
sequent experience, that will have this
effect. Let every Latter-day Saint reflect
upon these points, and not allow national
prejudices and customs to warp his
judgment and distort his vision, but
allow his mind to expand and soar
beyond the little circle to which too
many confine their views, until he
can look upon the entire race as the
family of his Father, and the whole earth,
aside from geographical distinctions, as
the abidingplace of that family, until he
can meet the obedient from every clime
and nation, how diverse soever may be
their language and previous education,
as brethren, and welcome them as the
members with himself of a new nation-
ality, whose jurisdiction will continue
to extend until it will embrace the good
and the noble of all earth s sons and
daughters.

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMONISM."

BY ELDER E. L. T. HARRISON.
( Concluded from pagt 85.)

CHAPTER VIII.
PRIESTHOOD.

The great "Mormon'* doctrine of a
Priesthood next demands our attention.

To control the unnumbered intelli-
gences that exist upon the multiplied
worlds of space, ana that crowd this
lower world, it is but consistent with
every natural anticipation that the
sublime Governor of the universe should
be found to possess some system of

government and control suited to the
dissemination of his Spirit and parposes
in and over all his creations.

It ought to need no argument to prove
the necessity of system and order among
intelligences. All our experience goes
to prove that intelligent beings, owing to
the diversity of character which they
possess, call as much or more fot a
defined system of Divine arrangement
and order as any other department of the

Digitized by Google

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMO.MSM."

339

works of God. If the natural world
needs a strict and inviolable system to

f reserve and bring forth all its capa-
cities in their greatest beauty and
strength, then to a tenfold greater
degree does the world of humanity call
for a system of Divine government and
authority proceeding from the same
eternal Jiand that arranges and preserves
in such wondrous harmony the worlds
of nature, in their spheres. From what
more consistent source could radiate out
the authority to govern us than from
the .same hand and source whence
comes every element of life, food, and
raiment that pertains to our existence P
As our goals call for a Divine religion
to solve for us the perplexities of our
existence, and to open before us a field
for the eternal employ of sour powers, so
do our souls call for a Divinely-
authorised system, in connection with
which and by which such principles can be
promulgated in their true spirit and
character. Until we are made acquainted
with the existence of such a s mam of
Divine government and education, then,
and not till then, can we see an entire
completeness in the arrangements and
provisions of our Heavenly Father for
our happiness below.

By tne revelations of the Latter-day
Gospel, we learn that such a system of
Divine authority does exist, amt&hat it
is (as we have endeavoured to show,)
prepared and adapted to flow in con-
nection with the principle of parentage
(or, in other words, to be transmitted
from Father to Son) ; for the principle
of parentage having the influence
of natural ties to cement its authority
and to enforce its requisitions, possesses
every capability for tne social, religious,
or political government of mankind.
This, therefore, is its natural channel.
But as the stream of parentage may
become polluted, and the knowledge of
God as he truly is may be lost or
perverted by mankind, by a wise pro-
vision of Heaven's Priesthood (or the
right to represent the Great Head of our
race,) it is reserved as a separate insti-
tution, and has always to be conferred
by a separate and distinct ordination to
each individual, being made a conditional
thing, dependent on the righteousness of
the claimant and the will of Heaven,
aWiough the right to possess it may
have Been handed down from the

fathers. This arrangement preserves
the authority of the Father eternally in
his own hands, and enables him to
secure that it shall only be wielded by
those who will represent not only his
authority, but the virtues and attributes
of his character. But where the will of
God is supreme — where the order of
heaven is established in perfection, as
among celestial beings, there priest-
hood and parentage are one and the
same thing ; that is, they are invested in
the same hands.

Parentage, then, is the true and
natural channel of Priesthood. But, by
the eternal principles of the Gospel,
mankind are entitled to their agency,
which can never be set aside. Hence,
when mankind have in past ages chosen
to forsake the patriarchal principle and
become otherwise corrupt, God has, like
a kind Father, determined to save them
still in due time into the order of
heaven, built up organizations corres-
ponding in arrangement to the principle
-of family organization, and invested in
the various members of tjiat organization
the eternal Priesthood, or that power
and right to direct for and in behalf of
the Heavens, accompanied by those gifts,
blessings, and privileges which should
naturally have been handed down to
mankind by the administrations of a
pure and holy parentage.

Such an organization, f-o far as cir-
cumstances permitted its development,
Jesus built up in his day, at the head of
which he stood himself, taking the place
of the Great Father to mankind. To act
under himself, and to be also fathers to
the people, he ordained twelve Apostles,
and placed under them, for govern-
ment of smaller divisions, quorums
of Seventies, and with or under them
"pastors, evangelists, and teachers."

To the members of this organization
Jesus gave such delegated power and
authority as modern Christians (who, not
knowing the principle by which the use
of such authority was guarded and
wielded in safety,) almost tremble to-
hear of, and have concluded, in con-
sequence, not to think or to try and
understand anything about; for Jesus,
said unto them, 44 Whosesoever sins ye*
remit, they are remitted \ and whose-
soever sins ye retain, they arc retained
unto them." " Verily, verily, I say
unto yon, what y fi ujju|@^g}rtk /

340

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " ICOBMONISM."

shall be bound in the heavens ; and what
you loose on the earth shall be loosed in
heaven." By virtue of this authority,
they laid down, as the delegated am-
bassadors of Heaven, the terms upon
which mankind could have their sins
remitted, saying, " Repent, and be bap-
tized every one in the. name of Jesus
Christ for the remission of sins." (Acts
ii. 28.) They issued decrees with all
the majesty of a God, saying, " It hath
seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to
us." (Acts xv. 28.) They called the
organization of the Church over which
they presided, " The pillar and the
ground of the truth." They admitted the
repentant through the gate of baptism
into the kingdom of God, " translating
them from the kingdom of darkness into
the kingdom of God's dear Son ;" and
when rebellious, they expelled them
again, fixing decrees upon their heads
that were to take effect even down to
the morning of the resurrection, saying,
in effect, "Such an one we deliver over
unto Satan for the destruction of the
flesh, that the spirit may be saved in
the day of the Lord Jesus." (Cor.
v. 5.) Here was authority worthy of
a God, and partaking of that dignity
and scope of character consistent with
the movements of Deity.

So complete an organization did Jesus
frame, in which to invest this Divine
authority, that Paul compared it to the
human body, of which no one part could
say to the other, " I have no need of
thee ; and on another occasion he said
that it was as an organization " by
bands and joints fitly jomed together ;"
while another Apostle compared it to a
building — a holy temple, with Jesus
Christ as " the chief corner stone" of the
structure.

The great wisdom and consistency of
this organization lay in the fact that it
was provided that it should be managed
under the directing hand of Jehovah.
The giving of such immense powers to
men was consistent and simple enough,
because, being invested in a system
linked on to the heavens by ever-flowing
revelation, those powers were to be used
only under the controlling hand of the
Almighty; and therefore, as those
wielding them had continual access to
him, and were always subject to his
control, they could not materially err, —
the fearfully ridiculous doctrine that

the Almighty intended to cut himself off
from the right to ever say another word
to the nations of the earth, or dictate
their affairs, (and as he intended in future
to leave all the souls of men dependent
on the correctness of certain translations
for their knowle^e of salvation,) not
having been then invented. The use of
such powers was consistent enough in a
Church of revelation to dictate their
use, but absurd as in the case of the
Church of Borne, who claims them, but
denies the necessity of present revelation,
by which alone man can tell how to use
them agreeably to the arrangement and
wishes of holy beings above.

In the light of the Latter-day Gospel
we learn that, great as were the powers
entrusted by this organization to man,
and complete as was the system for all
the purposes of a God, it was but an
extension to this earth of a sublime and
holy system of delegated authority
which had existed eternally in the
heavens. At the head of that supreme
organization that fills and governs the
heavens, the Father himself presides ;
and by the law of eternal Priesthood all
life, light, wisdom, and power are
centred in him to all his creations-
There is nothing done, from the smallest
to the highest matter of government and
control in all his multiplied kingdoms,
but is done in his name; and the
wisdom, benefit, and blessing of every
transaction are credited to him as the
ever-flowing Fountain oflife and blessed-
ness. He governs the wide domains of
eternity through his chosen sons, who
being brought in due proportion up to
his standard of holiness and perfection,
and being educated in every trait and
characteristic of his nature until he is
reflected on their souls, are chosen as
his representatives over his manifold
kingdoms and creations.

His Son Jesus Christ is his represen-
tative to this world, and rules it for his
Father. Jesus being placed to be to
the inhabitants of the earth, in all
matters, precisely what his Father is to
him, by the principle of delegated
authority he holds the entire power of a
supreme and absolute God to tins
creation : hence his saying — " No one
oometh unto the Father but by me ;'*
and therefore is it also said, 41 There
is none other name given under heaven
but the name of Jesus whereby we can

Digitized by

TOKENS OP DIVINITY IN " MOBMONISM."

34.1

be saved," because J esus being placed to
be to this world the fountain of creation,
life, and salvation to all its inhabitants,
claims of necessity that all shall be
done in his name, or by his authority.

To all below him Jesus is therefore
" the way, the truth, and the life." All
the authority, majesty, and dominion of
the eternal heavens — all the keys of
wisdom, truth, and eternal intelligence,
are by the Father's appointment centred
in his hands to the dominion over which
he is appointed to preside. There is no
truth, blessing, or good of any descrip-
tion that can be had by the inhabitants
of this world from the Father aside of
Jesus, or over his head. All that the
Father bestows will be given by Jesus'
bands, or through his administration to
this earth : therefore there is no blessing
or salvation to be had from the heavens
now or hereafter but what must be
sought and obtained through him. In
fact, there is no getting even so much as
to know the Father, but through his
administrations : therefore it is written,
" No man knoweth the Father but the
Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal
him." So long as he represents truly
the Father's wishes, and carries out
faithfully his purposes, he is unlimited
in his sphere, domg all that a God has
to do. Consequently it is said, "The
Father judgeth no man, but hath com-
mitted all judgment to the Son, that all
men may honour the Son as they honour
the Father." And so with every other
matter respecting our salvation it is
" committed" or delegated to the Son ;
and all men are called upon to " honour"
him precisely as though he were the
Father himself, he being to all intents
and purposes of salvation the Father to
us, being invested with his power, by
virtue of the eternal Priesthood placed
upon him by his Father, being " con-
secrated," by the oath and covenant,
" a Priest for ever after the order of
Melchisedec."

The beauty and safety of this system
of delegated authority, of which Jesus
is to us the chief example, lies in the
fact that the Eternal Father requires of
him, and of all other of his sons who
represent him, unlimited and unques-
tioning obedience to himself as their
head. In order to carry out the organiza-
tion, effectually, and to enable the Father
to govern completely through their

administration, they have to lay them-
selves and their own wishes and ideas
completely on one side, and submit to be
moulded in all things by the Father's
hand. They have to take Him as their
model in spirit and in policy, viewing
Him and his will, as the standard of
right in all things, drinking into his
Spirit, until the will of the Father
becomes developed within them as their
own will, ruling and dictating every
feeling of their souls. Acting precisely
on this principle, Jesus said, " I do
nothing but what I have seen my
Father do :" therefore he said, 14 1 speak
not of myBelf, but what I hear that I
speak ;" and therefore also he proclaimed
that he came not to do his own will,
but the will of Him that sent him. The
consistency and perfecting of the scheme
of delegated authority turns on this
point. Jesus' Father was to him pre-
cisely what he was to others — namely,
"the way, the truth, and the life."
The very principle that made Jesus the
way, the truth, and the Hfe to those
over whom he was exalted lay in the
principle of unquestioning obedience,
devotion, and love to Him that was
ingrained and imbued within his soul.
With these principles established in him
as his very nature, the empire of the
earth, with the salvation of afi the souls
of men, was safe in his care. The
Almighty Father could govern as com-
pletely and with as much honour and
glory through him as by his own hands,
because Jesus made it his business to
be one with the Father in all things.
He gave himself up to be ruled by the
principles his Father delighted in, cen-
tering all his soul in him for light,
truth, and guidance, making him his
standard in all that he did, never taking
the glory or credit to himself, but
sacredly preserving his Father's rights,
acknowledging His sovereignty in all
things, and attributing to Him all the
wisdom and goodness he ever dis-
played.

Here, then, we have one great in-
stance of the spirit and principle of
delegated authority as displayed m one
standing nearest to the eternal throne ;
but in all the varied grades in which it
exists the principle is the same. Every
representative of God in his sphere
holds the same species of power on the
same conditions — namely, that he abides

Digitized by

342

TOKENS OF DIVINITY IN " MORMONISM."

in his head. Prom the smallest branch
of that government to the mightiest
system of worlds or universes, the prin-
ciple is eternally the same. The head
of each combination within the circle of
Divinely delegated authority, when
clothed upon with an appointment grow-
ing out of the holy Priesthood, becomes
an equal centre of light, truth, and
authority to all below him that those
above him are to him, and consequently
makes the same claims upon their obe-
dience. Hence we find Jesus, after so
meekly submitting himself to his
immediate Head, demanding of those
that presided under him that they
should equally look to him for light,
truth, and guidance, as he looked to his
Father. Hence we find him saying,
" I am the vine ; ye are the branches.
Except ye abide in me, ye cannot brmg
forth fruit." Let it be observed, *ne
did not say, Except ye abide in the
Father, but Except ye abide in mb,
because, according to the system of
Priesthood, or Divinely-delegated au-
thority, he was appointed to be as the
Father to them to all intents and pur-

Eoses. Hence, again, when he prays,
e prayed not that the disciples might
be one with the Father, but, " Father,
I pray that these my disciples may be
one in me." Let them but be one with
him, and that was all they had to do.
As to being one with the Father, it was
his business to see to that.

This is the true spirit of the organiza-
tion of the heavens — that is, where the
system is established in perfection.
Each has simply to look upward to his
own immediate head for all the truth,
light, authority, or government he
needs ; and thus it runs through the
eternal chain of beings of every rank
and grade, from those nearest to the
throne of God to the utmost bounds
where government in fulness prevails.
The Eternal Father educates and deve-
lops his sons by the train of circum-
stances through which he passes them.
He teaches them the principles of the
eternal Gospel, and thus develops and
incorporates, by growth from grace to
grace, his virtues within their souls ; and
then allots to all their spheres of domin-
ion, over and in which they are as
complete and final a head as he is.
This lifts the weight of eternal govern-
ment from off one shoulder, and makes

each division self-supporting and self-
sustaining. Herein is its great simpli-
city, beauty, and order, and the principle
by which the Eternal Father can govern
a million worlds with as much ease as
one, all throughout this almighty sys-
tem, from the lowest to the highest,
uniting themselves in undying love and
confidence with their immediate head,
and submitting their whole souls to be
moulded by the wisdom, light, and
power of God as it dwells in Him.
Thus a channel is kept open by which
the sentiments and purposes of the
Father can flow to all, and by which
he can dwell in all, govern all, and be
the life, light, and power of the whole
system.

This, in brief, is the organization and
the spirit of the heavens, or, in other
words, of the holy and eternal Priest-
hood, of which, in the patriarchal days,
one Melchizedec was so worthy a
member, that it became common to
call it after his name, — not because
he was author of it, or the first
who held it, but to avoid the two fre-
quent repetition of the name of the
Divine Being, whose Priesthood alone
it is ; and because Melchizedec, dis-
tinguished himself in introducing it to the
world. But it was before Melchizedec,
being, as asystem, " without father, with-
out mother, without beginning of days, or
end of years," or from eternity to
eternity, — that great endless and sub-
lime organization by which the Eternal
Father reigns in the hearts of unnum-
bered hosts and moulds all to his will, by
which he unites families to families,
worlds to worlds, systems to systems,
and universes back of universes, till one
will, sentiment, and course of action is
found throughout illimitable space.

A portion of this Priesthood has now
been extended to this world, and that
by direct revelation and by the admin-
istration of the holv angels, or under
the hands of holy beings who have .held
it in connection with the endless chain
of beings above ; for in no other way
could it be restored or established upon
earth consistently with the order and
dignity of heaven. It has been invested
in the Church of Latter-day Saints, and
it will go forth, making all ears to tingle,
and all hearts to quake with joy or hate ;
for it is the vested power of God. It
has been extended in past ages for tern-

Digitized by

TOKENS OP DIVINITY

IN "MOBMONISM."

343

porary purposes, but it is now established
to prevail, and never, never be removed
again. But, although the receptacle
of the authority of the Almighty, it
never expects to prevail further than
as mankind accept it of their own freewill
and choice ; for no organization or
principle could be eternal in its influ-
ence that did not rest upon such
grounds. It proceeds, therefore, on
the principle of man's free agency,
appealing by its light, beauty, order,
simplicity, and grandeur, but, above
all, fcy the righteousness of its principles,
to the souls of men.

As a system, it requires unlimited
obedience from its followers ; for no
system could be perfectly controllable
by Jehovah's hand that required less.
But it asks obedience from Saint and
Gentile only in proportion as they get to
know by the testimony of God that it is
true. It only claims obedience as man-
kind feel and know that obedience
to it is a blessing and benefit to them-
selves.

As to its spirit, it comes not as a
master, but as a father, whose authority
is manifested in teaching, persuading,
and advising. The " authority" which
it claims is simply that which anything
that blesses and comforts has to be
received. It tells us that God has ap-
pointed a Priesthood, not because he
wants to exalt one set of men in mastery
over another, but because he can more
perfectly guide or govern on this prin-
ciple. It declares the spirit to crave
honour or homage from mankind,
because of priestly authority, to be of
the Devil, and not Priesthood, but
priestcraft.

In such an organization, coming in
such a spirit, and based upon, led, and
guided Dy continuous revelation, we
see something worthy of a great
Designer — something that could answer
the purposes of a God, while in the
systems of the day we see a group of
motley, divided, and uncontrollable
systems, without head or centre, and
based on identically the opposite prin-
ciple to that upon which Jesus built his
Church ; for while his system was, by the
perfection of its organization and the
principle of continuous revelation,
adapted for unlimited growth into just as
much wisdom and truth as God might
wish it to receive, and was also adapted

to be turned in any fresh direction the
will of God might choose, these systems
are not only deficient of all this beau-
teous organization, but are also by their
creeds fastened down, and necessitated
to accept no more of the truths of
heaven than they may chance to gather
from the brief records of the past.
They cannot advance. God cannot use
them, if he would, for the introduction
of any fresh purposes of his will. They
are, by their creeds, (which forbid
belief in any present revelation of
Jehovah's will, ) rendered altogether
impracticable and useless for the pur-
poses of a professing and ever-advancing
God. ^

While this is the case with the world,
the Latter-day Gospel, in preaching to
us so sublimely simple an organization,
based on the principle of ever-flowing
revelation, lays before us a mode of
heavenly government adapted to answer
the ends and purposes of a governing
God — one capable of bringing the
inhabitants of the world to the unity of
the faith, — a system by which every
sublime sentiment of Jehovah's bosom
can eternally flow to man, and by which
can be transmitted to this world, as it
everlastingly progresses, every feature
of harmony and concord that exists
above, — a system that puts mankind in
a position to grow with all the growth
of the heavens, and to increase in every
heavenly art, science, or righteous and
ennobling principle, as fast as God
wishes to beautify and glorify the works
of his hands, — a system, in fine, which,
when associated, as in the case of celes-
tialized worlds, with the links and bonds
of paternal and filial affection, and
flowing in the stream of parental
authority, reaches the climax of adap-
tation for the government or education
of the race of man.

With God at the head of such a sys-
tem, and all eternity for the day of
progress, where cannot mankind arrive P
This world will take its place among
the brilliant constellations of perfected
abodes, where truth has conquered dis-
organization, and corruption and death
have been mastered by the power of
perfecting, ennobling, and immortalizing
truth ; and man in such a day of pro-
gress, and with such a Father for a
guide, can yet be found among the
Gods.

Digitized by Google

344

HXSTOBY OP JOSEPH SMITH*

Let the reader try to conceive, if he
can, of a system more capable of bring-
ing mankind along on the road of
unlimited progress, or more calculated
to serve as a medium for the dissemina-
tion of Jehovah's purposes. Let him
think, if he can, of a system more simple,

natural, grand, and Godlike. Let him
conceive, if possible, of one more ilimit-
able or boundless in its adaptation, or
of one in any way more worthy of a
God. If not, let him bow his head and
acknowledge that the principle is
Divine.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

( Continued from yage 328. )

Tuesday, 9. — The meeting being
opened by singing and prayer,

Voted that Elder James Sloan go to
preside over the Bradford Conference, and
that Elder William Speakman go to preside
over the Clitheroe Conference, occasionally
preaching at Leeds under the presidency of
Elder Sloan.

Elder Hedlock having spoken at gTeat
length on the organization of the Priest-
hood, and the relative duties of each officer
according to his calling, exhorting them to
consider the great work in which they were
engaged, and not hinder their usefulness by
being too tenacious of authority, or giving
heed to little trifling matters, while the
great work of rolling onward the truth be
entirely forgotten.

Voted that Elder Glaud Roger go to labour
with Elder James Ure in the Sheffield
Conference.

The sittings of the Conference were then
brought to a close by President Reuben
Hedlock engaging in prayer and thanks-
giving at four o'clock p.m."

The Mayor and Marshal received a
notification to produce docket and
other papers in case of 0. F. Bostwick,
before the Circuit Court at Carthage ;
also a similar notification to produce
papers in case of Amos Davis, appealed
before Circuit Court.

Wednesday, 10. — The Twelve were in
Council arranging a plan of appoint-
ing Conferences.

Extract of a letter from Elder James
Sloan : —

"The Marquis of Downshire, who
oppressed the Saints at Hillsborough, in
Ireland, ha& had the pleasure of his son,
Lord William, being killed by his horse at
a hunt in England, a few weeks past ; and
Mr. Reilly, his agent, who aided in their
abuse, has received the third attack of some
paralytic affliction, and is obliged to resign his
office. His son, again, who headed a mob
to annoy the Saints and prevent preaching,
has gone to Cork in bad health, and not ex-
pected to recover. So much for them.

Thursday 11. — In General Council, in
the Masonic Hall, morning and after-
noon. Had a very interesting time. The
Spirit of the Lord was with us, and we
closed the Council with loud shouts of
Hosanna !

Friday, 12. — The Twelve met in Coun-
cil. Rode out with brothers Parker and
Clayton to look at some land.

A Conference was held at Oypry,
Tuscaloosa county, Alabama. Elder
Benjamin L. Clapp, President, and John
Brown, clerk. Seven Branches were re-
presented, consisting of 192 members, 12
Elders, 5 Priests, 4 Teachers, and 2
Deacons, all in good standing.

Saturday, 13. — At 10 a.m., met in City
Council. George P. Styles was appointed
City Attorney. I advised that the Council
take such a course as will protect the inno-
cent; that in many cases the attorney
would get his pay of the individual
employing him ; that the appointment would
be a valuable consideration, and for one
year a salary of $100 would be sufficient ;
perhaps $150 the next year, &c M increasing
as the city increases ; and if $100 would not
satisfy, we had better have no attorney.
" I would rather give my services as Coun-
sellor, &c., than levy a tax the people are
not able to pay ; and that every man ought
to be willi ng to help to prop the city by bearing
a share of the burden till the city is able to
pay a higher salary. My opinion is that
the officers of the city should be satisfied
with a very small compensation for their
services. 1 have never received twenty-five
dollars for my services ; but the peace I have
enjoyed in the rights and liberties of the city
has been ample compensation."

I suggested the propriety of inserting a
clause in the ordinance to be made in
relation to the City attorney, Authorizing
him to claim fees of parties in certain cases,
and the small salary satisfy tfce attorney in
cases where he can get no fees from his
client. " I would rather be docked $100 in
my salary than have the $200 given to the
City Attorney by the city."

Digitized by Google

HI8T0BY 07 JOSEPH SMITH.

345

I also proposed that the Council take into
consideration the payment of the police;
also proposed that a public meeting be called
in each Ward to see if the people will pay
the police ; and if they will not, then the
Council will take the case into consideration.

At 1 p.m., the Municipal Court sat in the
Assembly Boom, where I asked Br. R. D.
Foster if he bore my expenses to Washing-
ton, or any part thereof.

Foster replied that he did not.

I stated that Dr. Goforth had said that he
was taken in a secret council when Foster
told him he had paid my expenses.

Dr. Foster replied that he never had a secret
interview with Dr. Goforth, and gave his
version of the meeting.

I then asked him — " Have I ever misused
you any way P"

Foster said — " I do not feel at liberty to
answer this question, under existing cir-
cumstances.

I again asked him — " Did I ever misuse
you P"

He again replied — "I do not feel at
liberty to answer under existing circum-
stances."

I then asked — " Did I ever wrong you in
deal, or personally misuse you in any
shape?"

Foster said—' 1 1 do not feel at liberty to
answer. I have treated you christianly and
friendly too, so far as I have had the
ability."

I then asked him to tell me where I had
done wrong, and I will ask his forgiveness ;
for I want you to prove to this company by
your own testimony that I have treated you
honourably.

(To be

Foster then said — " I shall testify no
further at present."

I then asked Justice Aaron Johnson—
" Did I ever make oath before you against
Simpson P"

He replied — " Not before the prosecu-
tion."

I then told the whole story.

Andrew Colton then came up before the
Municipal Court on Habeas Corpus, and was
discharged on the insufficiency of the,
papers.

After which, I preferred the following
charge before the High Council against Dr.
Robert D. Foster "for unchristian-like
conduct in general, for abusing my charac-
ter privately, for throwing out slanderous
insinuations against me, for conspiring
against my peace and safety, for conspiring
against my life, for conspiring against the
peace of my family, and for lying.

A charge was preferred against Harrison
Sagers for teaching spiritual wife doctrine
and neglecting his family, which was handed
over to the High Council to act upon.

At 2 p.m., Elder John Taylor delivered a
political discourse.

About 5 p.m. , the " Maid of Iowa" arrived
at the Nauvoo House wharf, filled with
passengers from England, led by William
Kay. 210 souls started from Liverpool,
and nearly all arrived in good health and
spirits, one smaller company having pre-
viously arrived.

Sunday, 14.— Rainy day. No meeting
at the Stand. I preached on board the
" Maid of Iowa."

Committee of the Council met in the
afternoon at my Office.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, Junh 1, 1861.
HISTORY REPEATING ITSELF-A HISTORICAL PARALLEL.

As striking an ' instance of retributive justice as we find on record is that
incorporated in the history of Joseph, the son of Jacob. Its parallel is being
illustrated in the developing history of the Latter-day Saints, the major portion
of whom claim to be Joseph's descendants.

Joseph, when a mere boy, began to have dreams ; and they pleased him so
much, that he could not refrain from relating them to his brethren, The dreams
betokened his future -greatness and glory, and were interpreted by his brethren
to indicate a time when he should reign over them, and they with his father
should make obeisance unto him. They were angry at his dreams. They might
not havelbeen willing to admit their truth ; but they were fei

346

EDITORIAL.

so fearful, that they were willing to have recourse to almost any kind of violence
to get rid of the " dreamer." Their first thought — to kill him — was overruled,
and they sold him, thinking, doubtless, that by doing so they were effectually
precluding him from every opportunity of ever having his dreams fulfilled. Who
could have dreamed that when sold as a slave, and carried into Egypt, he
could by any possibility ever trouble his brethren again with his visionary
notions or their fulfilment P Yet the measures they took to prevent the fulfil-
ment of the design they so much hated, when dreamed by their brother Joseph,
were the measures which actually brought about its fulfilment !

The history of the circumstances is familiar to all. Joseph was reminded of
his dreams when, as the first man in the land of Egypt next to the king, though
unknown as their brother to them, his brethren came and bowed down before
him with their faces to the earth ; and bitterly must they have been reminded of
them, at least upon one occasion, when their father having just died, they
thought that peradventure Joseph would hate them for the evil which they did
unto him, and they went and fell down before his face and said, " Behold, we be
thy servants." Haughtily as they conducted themselves to their stripling
brother when he dared to dream that they, his elder brethren, should be reigned
over by him, the evil they did to prevent it placed him in circumstances suitable
to fulfil his part, and afterwards produced within them the feelings of abasement
and humility necessary for them to have, in order to fulfil their part !

A little over thirty years ago, the Latter-day Saints, many of them descendants
of that identical Joseph whom his brethren persecuted, began to have dreams and
visions of the future, and to relate them to their brethren. Their import was
that they were destined to have rule and dominion ; that " the kingdom and
dominion^ and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven" were to be
given unto them ; and they were to take the rule and possess it for ever and ever.
They were to be the head, and to be respected as such. The narration of Joseph's
dreams produced no greater hatred in the bosoms of those to whom they were
told than did the narration of these others in the minds of many of those who
heard them. With what sneering contempt they listened to them ! But though
this was the exterior, underneath the thought of them rankled. They would not
admit that there was any likelihood of their ever being fulfilled, yet they were
harassed with a dread lest they should be, which prompted them to take every
step in their power to prevent their fulfilment. They did not believe the things
foretold ; but they appeared to think that the entertaining of such views might
breed an ambition which would be satisfied with nothing short of the full accom-
plishment of the anticipations indulged in. To prevent this, they, like Joseph's
brethren towards him, concocted to kill them and blot them out ; but in this design
they were overruled. A few only fell victims to their malice. They tried many
other plans with them, thinking thereby to accomplish their purposes and destroy
every prospect of the fulfilment of the things foretold ; but they were in vain.
At last they determined to remove them so far from their sight that contact with
them would be almost impossible, hoping thereby to completely blot out every
prospect of their ever becoming what they had dreamed and anticipated.
Egypt was a land no farther removed from the brethren of Joseph, and no more
likely to hold him secure in bondage from ever again troubling them, than were
the western wilds of the continent of America, to keep us from annoying with our
presence the brethren to whom we had related our dreams and visions respecting
our future. But the deportation of Joseph into Egy^ iz df{l (not preve%fc the

EDITORIAL.

347

fulfilment of his dreams; (on the contrary, it promoted it;) neither has the
deportation of the Latter-day Saints to the distant valleys of the West interfered
in the least with the fulfilment of theirs. Zion will yet prove itself to be a place of
security and refuge for them as Egypt did in the case of Joseph and in the case
of one still more illustrious subsequently. When food is exhausted among those
who thrust them out, it is not improbable to suppose that the people of Zion, being
aware of what is coming, may have sufficient to spare to extend relief to them.

They have placed us in the position, by their own wicked acts, which we had to
occupy to fulfil our own predictions. Our relationship to them, and theirs to us,
when we dwelt in their midst, would not have admitted, had we remained there,
of our becoming what we anticipated and they dreaded. Now the trouble we
warned them of has come upon them. War, with all its horrors, is in their
midst. Rent asunder, divided, and at enmity one with another, there is every
prospect of their being denationalized. Formerly they listened to what we had
to say with haughty contempt. In the plentitude of their power they felt secure, and
resolutely stifled any uneasy feeling they might have had, in consequence of our
remonstrances and predictions. But events are shaping to make a change in
them in this respect. Misfortunes are thickening around them. They will have
need, ere long, of such a deliverance as a Joseph can extend unto them — such a
deliverance as the people whose dreams and predictions they would not receive,
but attempted to thwart, can alone extend unto them ; for their dreams and visions
must be fulfilled. The power to rule and hold dominion, to control and regulate,
will be lodged in the hands of those to whom the promise has been made ; and
when the 44 brethren" who thought to prevent the ftilfilnient by ktf ling and banishing
the " dreamers" have been sufficiently humbled, they will gladly help to fulfil the
predictions by submitting to be ruled. When the constitution is raised aloft,
and wise government organized and consolidated by those whose destiny it is,
and who dreamed it out, both in night dreams and day visions, years ago, the
remnants that are left, being tired of anarchy and being humbled by misfortune,
will avail themselves of the opportunity to dwell under its protecting shadow
upon such terms as they can. To continue* the parallel we commenced our
article with, they will then feel to say to those whom they had so cruelly
oppressed, as the brethren of Joseph did to him whom they had so grievously
wronged, with the feeling of abasement so natural to the position they placed
themselves in — " Behold, we be thy servants ;" or, as another " dreamer" has
predicted respecting this event — " The sons also of them that afflicted thee shall
come bending unto thee ; and all they that despised thee shall bow themselves
down at the soles of thy feet ; [how similar an action this to that of the brethren
of Joseph unto him !] and they shall call thee, The city of the Lord, The Zion
of the Holy One of Israel,"

Apology. — We owe an apology to our readers for the irregularity of our issues
of the Star for the past two or three weeks, which has been occasioned by the disad-
vantages attending the transfer of the printing department to our own Office,
and the difficulty and loss of time experienced in rendering the new
machinery efficient for the printing. This, with the labours resulting from an
unusually large emigration, has unavoidably delayed the issue of the Star, We
are now, however, in happy expectation of being able to issue our future Numbers
in due time.

Digitized by

348

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Leeds, May 10, 1861.

President Gannon.

My Dear Brother, — I attended meeting
at Bradford last night, where we had a
good time. The Saints there have been
rather behind since the days of 41 long
ago ;" but I am happy to say that I
am at present quite hopeful of a speedy
change for the better. I sincerely pray
that the spirit of humility and diligence
may be sought for and obtained by the
Priesthood and Saints in that Branch. I
am thankful that prospects are brighten-
ing, and look forward with anticipations
of pleasure to the time when the Spirit
of God may again flow richly in our
assemblies, and we become firmly united
in the pure principles of truth, carry-
ing out the wise counsels of the servants
of God, and honouring and magnifying
our high callings and position.

The Saints at Leeds feel well. I love
to mingle with them ; for they are
warm-hearted and kind. They are all
united, and feel well'; and I am happy
to say that the Saints throughout this
Conference, so far as I have oeen able
to visit them, or otherwise learn of their
feelings, are enjoying the spirit of their
religion, with but very few exceptions.

A letter from brother Clark, Sheffield,
informs me that all is moving on peace-
ably and favourably in that Conference.
I also received a letter from the Presi-
dent of the Hull Branch, saying that,
with the exception of some sickness, all
is well there.

May the rich blessings of our Heavenly
Father attend you in all your labours
to forward the great cause of truth,
together with Presidents Lyman and
Bioh, and all the faithful !

Your brother in the Gospel covenant,
Joseph F. Smith.

London, May 21, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I find the Saints
generally alive to their duties, and
seemingly desirous, by word and deed*
to bless those who labour among them,
and promote, to the extent of their
ability, the interests of the cause of
truth. This feeling is steadily gaining
ground. The course pursued by Presi-
dents Brown and Staines, I am con-

vinced, cannot fail to result in the
unlimited confidence and support of the
Priesthood and Saints throughout the
District. Already many who have
stood aloof for a season are beginning
to rally around, and press forward with
renewed energy and determination.

It is true we have here, as elsewhere,
certain scribes labouring feebly and
vainly to impede the progress of the
work, whose talents (!) are mainly
devoted to the publication of penny
pamphlets, which are, like the boys'
spelling-books, " illustrated with cuts."
But of all the contemptible efforts to
obstruct the progress of this kingdom
that I ever witnessed, these are the most
empty and void of reason. They are
Bucn miserable fabrications, full of such
absurd and glaring falsehoods, that I
am told the news-agents, whose business
it is to profit by their sale, caution
credulous buyers against placing con-
fidence in their statements concerning us.

Among other devices for "putting
down Mormonism," an assortment of
most melancholy caricatures, intended
to represent prominent members of the
Church, accompanied by horrid-looking
" BombastesFuriosos," clad in skins and
loaded with deadly weapons, exhibited
as " destroying angels," are in circula-
tion. But as these terrific images do
net seem to intimidate us to such an
extent as to stagnate our progress
entirely, we are gravely informed that
more than half the Saints perish on the
way to Utah, whose loss, I suppose, is
mainly attributable to the vast number
of "bears, wolves, and snakes" with,
which the route is infested, and whose
fangs, they tell us, are venomous beyond
conception!

These ridiculous statements are
unworthy of notice, except as they
evince the calibre of those arrayed
against us. I am informed that they
generally have a relapse, and become
exceedingly " exercised" every season
about emigration time : but they mis-
calculated this year, and the blow aimed
at the emigration did not fall until the
train had passed ; yet, bewildered with
the futility of their herculean exertions,
they continue wildly beating the air,
and vociferating incoherently — *' Delu-
sion ! snakes ! ! wolves! ! ! booh-o-oh!"

Digitized by

STJMMAHT OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

349

I am happy to be able to say that, in
spite of every opposing influence, we
are steadily progressing, and are
increasing in numbers and confidence
in the principles of truth. Within the
past year there have been emigrated
from this Conference about 130 persons,
and during the same time have been
added by baptism about 145. We are
now baptizing nearly every week, and
our prospects are bright for a much
more rapid increase in the future.

I remain, as ever, yours truly,

George J. Taylob.

Norwich, May 21, 1861.
Dear Presidents Lyman and Rich, —

Since I left you at Liverpool I have
enjoyed myself first-rate. I have
travelled through every Branch, and
am happy to say that I find the Saints
feeling as well as I could expect under
the existing circumstances. As a

general thing, all seem to be willing to
o all they can to build up Zion and
free themselves from these lands, and
many have the gifts of the Gospel, to the
great joy of their hearts.

We are baptizing a few in every

Branch, and I can say that the work is
onward, and a good spirit prevails.
Brother Bull is labouring with good suc-
cess throughout the Conference, leaving
behind him a good influence, so that the
Saints wish to see him again.

On Saturday last I arrived in this
place (Norwich), and had a good
meeting on Sunday. Some strangers
attended. Last night I baptized three
persons, and shall baptize three more
this week. But while we are bearing
our testimony, we find the Devil is at
work to stir up the hearts of some.
But I am happy to say that as yet we
have no spirit to mob ; and I find by
visiting the strangers — those that I can
approach — that " Mormonism" is looked
upon by many very favourably. The
Saints, as a general thing, are willing
to do all they can to roll on the work ;
but as regards this world's goods, they
are poor. The President of the Con-
ference (brother Bentley) is labouring
with a good influence, and his services
are duly appreciated by the people.

Ever praying for your prosperity,
I am your brother in the truth,

E. H. Blackburn.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

AMERICAN.
Two other stars have at length fallen
from the Federal constellation — the Ten-
nessee and Arkansas Legislatures have both
passed formal ordinances of secession. The
Governor of North Carolina has sent a
warlike message to the Legislature, urging
the immediate convention of the people to
declare for secession. The Governor of Vir-
ginia has issued a proclamation declaring
his intention to resist invasion, and author-
izing the General of the army to call out as
many volunteers as he would find necessary.
The Virginians had seized the heights upon
the Maryland side of the Potomac, and were
engaged in fortifying them. A number of
secession troops were there. They had
also seized a steamer which communicated
between Old Point and Norfolk. General
Frost's brigade of Missouri Militia, num-
bering 800 men, were captured near St.
Louis by Federal volunteers. On their
arrival at that city, the mob threw stones at
the volunteers, who fired, killing about 20
persons. The Southern Congress assembled
at Montgomery has, by the additions to its

power of Tennessee and Arkansas, been so
emboldened as to pass a law recognising
the existence of war with the Northern
States; and that the Federal Government
will accept the challenge is now a confirmed
fact. Virginia is admitted by the Con-
federate Congress into the Confederate
States. Fort Mc Henry, at Baltimore, is
reinforced. General Butler, with 2,000
troops and a section of Artillery, has taken
possession of Baltimore : no resistance : mar-
tial law proclaimed. Charleston, Savannah,
and New Orleans were to be blockaded within
a week. The preparations for the effective
blockade of the Virginia waters were
complete. Precautionary notice had been
issued that no vessels could leave the waters
after fifteen days. Great election riots at
St. John's; three people shot, and the
telegraph wires cut.

Advices from Western Virginia state that
a convention is to be called to meet at
Wheeling for the purpose of forming a
separate State out of the counties west of
the Alleghanies. Thirty -three counties, it
is said, will be represented in the said con-

Digitized by

SUMMABY OF NEW 8 AND PASSING EVENT8.

350

vention, all in favour of maintaining the
United States Government. It is intended
to elect a Governor, members of the Legis-
lature, a United States Senator, and repre-
sentatives to Congress,

The latest advice-* from Missouri, May 10,
state that a brigade of 800 Militia, who were
encamped in the neighbourhood of St. Louis,
and supposed to be hostile to the Federal
Government, had surrendered to the com-
mandercd of the United State* forces, who.
with the aid of a' large body of volun-
teers, surrounded the ramp, and caused
them to lay down the t urns. They were
conducted to St. I oui> as prisoners of
war.

The Herald likewise publishes an acco- 1 >
of a negro insurrection in Kentucky. It
states that 300 or 400 negroes ha ' armed
themselves and formed into aeon-, any and
were committing depredations — that the
whites undertook to disarm them, and that
several were killed.

The following is from the Herald of the
10th instant :— We are placed this morn-
ing in possession of the important intelli-
gence that the threatened movement of
troops upon Baltimore has taken place.
On Wednesday the Pennsylvania troops,
accompanied by . Sherman's battery, pro-
ceeded from Blktou to the Susquehanna,
where they were to embark by steam for
Baltimore direct, whilst simultaneously
the trooiH ««ier the command of Major-
General Kein would advance by the
Northern Central Railroad, whose burned
bridges have been repaired. A third
column, consisting of some 4,000 or 5,000
men, with flying artillery, under command
of General Butler, accompanied by Gene-
ral Harney, have been ordered to march
to the same destination from the Relay
House, and thus to co-operate with the
movements of the other two columns. In
addition to these operations, Gen. Scott
was about to push troops forward to
Benny's Bridge, north of Georgetown, and
it is stated that largo bodies of troops will
soon pass into Virgiuia ; and in the event
of any hostile movement of the enemy on
tlie line of the Potomac, 10,000 Federal
soldiers can be placed on its right bank in
a few h'»urs. Meantime it is reported that
the Virginians have seized the heights
upon the Maryland side of the Potomac,
in the vicinity of Harper's Ferry, and that
the Government has the important infor-
mation that large masses of troops are
concentrating in that position with a view
to march upon Maryland, so as to draw
off a portion of the Federal troops from
Washington, and thus weaken it pre-
liminary to an attack from the opposite
side. "

GENERAL.

The English town of Yarmouth has been
a scene of intense excitement, owing to a
conflict between the Royal Artillery and the
Militia. Shortly after the disturbance
commenced* news reached the barracks that
the Artillery were being murdered by the
Militia, and in a few minutes upwards of 100
men, armed with their sabres, rushed like
wild men down the Southtown-road, towards
Yarmouth, to avenge their, comrades.
Within about 100 yards of the bridge which
crosses into the town, the infuriated soldiery
were met by one of the local magistrates,
who contrived to keep the men in check by
holding parley with the sergeants a few
minutes. Finding there was no com-
missioned officer present, he told the
sergeants to order their men back, and bid
them cross the bridge at their peril. The
sergeants replied that it was impossible for
them to keep their men in check, and the
latter becoming impatient, grasped their
sword handles, and, with a wild shout,
pressed forward to the bridge, carrying all
before them. By this time several thousand
civilians had congregated to the spot, who
fled before the soldiers in every direction,
spreading terror in the neighbourhood. By
the aid, however, of a commissioned officer,
who afterwards appeared on the scene, the
men were ultimately induced to return to
barracks. On the following evening another
riotous scene was enacted. The Hall-quay
(a wide, open plain of considerable extent,)
became the general scene of action, to
which the respective combatants were seen
hurrying from every direction, a mob of
some thousands, many of whom took part
in the fight, adding to the general tumult.
The shops along the quay had to be at once
closed, and that part of the town was
literally in the hands of the combatants for
nearly an hour. The road had been lately
macadamised, which the Artillery tore up,
and amid a shower of stones which flew like
hail drove back the Militia across the bridge,
the mob yelling before them. The Militia
were supplied with similar missiles from the
quay side, and for some time was this species
of warfare maintained, the bridge heing
utterly unapproachable on either sid«.
Strong armed pickets having arrived, the
melee terminated, the Militia being in
possession of the quay.

The Emperor of Austria has granted a
full amnesty to all those persons who had
been condemned for political crimes by the
military authorities of Trieste.

Russia, according to Ihe Advertiser' a
Paris correspondent, is in great danger of
being swept oy a revolutionary storm. The
pretenders gain adherents daily, — hundreds
of malcontents flock to their standard.

Digitized by CjOOg IC

VARIETIES.

351

In Warsaw the police and soldiers are
weeing an implacable war against every
article of dress and every external sign which
can be suspected as serving for a political
manifestation. The war is c^ried cn in a
very irritating and humiliating manner,
and many persons have been arrested.
Spies visit the churches, and they have been
seen to mark a cross with chalk on the coats
of i he men praying and singing patriotic
hymns, in order that they might arrest them
on quitting the church. The crowd, however,
noticed the manoeuvre and rubbed oft' the
marks. In the greater number of the
Russian provinces, the emancipation of the
serfs has given rise to difficulties between
them and the landed proprietors. On one
great estate in the neighbourhood of
St. Petersburg, the serfs assembled, con-
sulted together, and refused to work on the
old terms. The Government despatched
two companies of soldiers with loaded
muskets to put an end to the mutiny.
Thirty peasants were flogged, several were
sent to the mines, and the remainder (about
700 in number) were plundered of all they
possessed by the soldiers. At Beance and
o ; her villages in the province of Kitsan,
10,000 peasants announced to the land
ag: nts that they would no longer work on
the old terms, *• the Czar having freed them
and indemnified their masters." General
KorlioninofF, the military governor of
Kasan, resolving, to use his own woids, 44 at
once to re-establish order and stifle the
insurrection, placed himself at the head of
twelve companies, making an effeciive force
of 2,000 men, and marched against the
peasants, who were assembled in a vast
plain, perfectly unarmed. He commenced
firing on the peasants, and continued the fire

for more than an hour. There were 200
peasants killed and a vast number wounded.
The General stated, m his report to the
Emperor, that he was forced to have recourse
to this severe measure, in order not to give
the revolt time to extend throughout his
government. Nearly at the same time
similar events took place in other govern-
ments, but great secrecy is observed as to
what occurred there. The law relating to
the redemption of compulsory labour by
the peasants m Russian Poland has been
published. It indicates four different
methods by which the redemption may
be effected. The peasants will be finally
relieved from compulsory labour on the
1st October next.

The Melbourne papers just come to
hand give an account of an enormous
meteor that fell in the neighbourhood of
Ballarat on the morning of the 4th of
May last. When first seen at Geelong, it
was in the south-west ; its shape was that
of a cone, the base being foremost. The
light was intense, resembling that of
melting iron. The meteor left behind a
trace of light like the tail of a comet. At
one place a sulphuric smell was perceived.
There was no disturbance of the magnetic
element at the time. The state of the
weather was very peculiar. The heat
was very oppressive, and had been so for
several preceding days» The meteor
appeared to come out of a thin white
cloud. When it fell to the ground, it
exploded with a loud noise, and enveloped
a man who was near in a cloud of smoke.
The man was struck on the knee, which
was slightly injured. Where it tell, the
earth was deeply furrowed for about
twelve yards.

VARIETIES.

Lames who make themselves too " cheap" cease to be dear !

44 Will you take something P" said a teetotaller to a friend, while standing near a
tavern. 44 1 don't care if I do," was the reply. 44 Well, said the teetotaller, 44 let's take
a walk."

Arthur: "Mamma, isn't Mr. Blanque a wicked man?" Mamma: " Wicked, my
dear? No! What, makes vou ask such a question ?" Arthur : 44 Why, because, mamma,
when he comes into church he doesn't smdl his fiat as other people do !"

A lady making inquiries of a boy about his father, an intemperate man, who had been
sick for some time, asked whether he had regained his appetite. 44 No, ma'am," said the
bov, ** not exactly : his appetite is very poor, but his drinkatite is as good as ever !"

History of Printing. — It is admitted by the best writers on this subject, that it
was known and practised in China as early as A.D. 930 — at least live hundred years
liefore the art was known in Europe. The first invention of printing in Europe is
claimed by different places, and in behalf of several persons ; but, from a full investi-
gation of the subject, the first discovery is now ascribed to Laurentius, called
sometimes Costor, Koster, or Kustus, of Haarlem, in Holland. The exact period
cannot l»e ascertained, but it was between A. D. 1422 and 1436. He used for types
wooden blocks, in which letters were cut. John Geinsfleiche, of Mentz, in Germany,
made an improvement by the introduction of cut metal type, in AD. 1440.

Digitized by Google

352

VARIETIES. POETRY.— ADDRESSES.

A churchwarden's wife went to church for the first time in her life when' her husband
was churchwarden, and being somewhat late, the congregation were getting up from
their knees at the time she entered ; so she said, with a sweet, condescending smile,
" Pray keep your seats, ladies? and gentlemen ; t think no more of myself than I did before."

" Father, I think you told a lie in the pulpit to-day," fcaid the little son of a clergyman.
" Why, what do you mean ?" " Sir, you said, 4 One word more, and I have done.' Then
you went on and said a great many more words. The people expected you'd leare off,
as you promised them ; but you didn't, and kepj, <to preaching a long while after the
time was up."

The Spectacle Question. — A queer story is told of a dealer who had advertised eye-

f lasses, by the aid of which a person could rea<J easily the finest print. A well-dressed
rishman called at the counter, one day, to be fitted to a pair of spectacles. As he remarked
that he had never worn any, some were handed to him that magnified very little. He
looked hard through them upon the book set before him, but declared he could make oat
nothing. Another pair of greater power was saddled upon his nose, but unsuccessfully as
before. Further trials were made, until at length the almost discouraged dealer passed to him -
a pair which magnified more than all the rest in his stock. The customer, quite as
impatient as the merchant at having to try so many, put on the last pair and glowered
through them at the printed page with all his might. " Can you read that printing now ?"
anxiously inquired the distressed dealer, pretty certain that he had hit it right this time at
an^rate. " Divil a bit," was the reply. " Can you read at allP" said the merchant,
unable to conceal his vexation any longer. " Rade at all, is it P" cried the customer :
" there's not a single word among them that I can identify the features uv." " I say,, do
you know how to read P" exclaimed the dealer, impatiently. " Out wid ye !" shouted the
Irishman, throwing down the spectacles in a huff". " If 1 could rade, what *ud I be afther
buyin' a pair uv spectacles for P Ye chate the people wid the idee that yer glasses 'ud
help 'em to rade print aisy ; but it's a big lie, it is ! Ah. ye blackguard, ye thought
rd buy 'em without thryirC 'em/" And so he left the store, muttering — " Humbug!
humbug !" '

POETRY.

THE 8AINTS' PATRIOTIC SONG.

Before all lands in east or weft, Before all people, east or west, I

We love the land of Zion best ; - We lore the Saints of God the best—

With God's choice gifts tis teeming. u A race of noble spirits :

There Prophets, Seers, as of old, V ' Then let us with God's laws comply, /

The mysteries of heaven unfold. That when his Sahits are raised on high,

Through holy Priesthood streaming. Their joys we may inherit. A

'Mong Zion's homesteads joys abound— Well gladly join with heart and hand, ^\

True souls of worth are gathered round A chosen, true, devoted band,

Their Prophet and their head : To conquer Satan's powers : /

No tyrant there shall dare to reign ; TO endless life we'll onward press,

God will their rights and laws maintain, For God win all our wrongs redress, ;>

Till on to glory led. And victory shall be ours*

Braintree. A.. Ross.

CONTENTS. * J*

Propriety of Abandoning National Prejudices .... 337 Joseph F. Smith, George J. Taylor, and Ellas

Tokens of Divinity in 44 Monnonism" m H. Blackburn JJr

History of Joseph Smith J44 Summary of News and Passing Events **;

Editorial. — History Repeating Itself— A Historical Varieties .»» JJJ

Parallel— Apology .- 345 Poetrv.— The Saints* Patriarchal Song JJJ

Correspondence.— England : Letters from Elders Addresses : »

" ^ , *\ -

Addhbssm.— Eugene Henriod, St Mary's Cottage, Southampton.

Edwin Scott, care of George A. Smith, near the Silk Mills, Watford, Herts,

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON. .

LONDON : •*
FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS WBSETi

ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

)igit>6d by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAE

* A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations : hewM
plead with aU flesh; kewiUgkte them that are wicked to the sword, smith th» Xord."— Jimmiah.

No. 23, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, June 8, 186L

Price One Penny.

DESIGN OF GOB IN THE CONSTITUTION OF MAN.

BT PRESIDENT AMASA M* LYMAN.

( Continued from page 324.)

In order that we may more clearly
comprehend' the principle that was
involved in, and the design that induced
the peculiar constitution of man, we
will consider the relationship to God in
which the Gospel shows him, standing
as the child and prospective heir to the
glory and greatness of his Father.

For our instruction on this point, we
will consult the teaching of Jesus
addressed to his brethren, the Apostles :
— " I am the vine ; ye are the branches :
he that abide th in me and I in him, the
same bringeth forth much fruit ; for
without 'me ye can do nothing." (John
xv. 5.)

In this passage the fact is rendered
^apparent that whatever the nature,
character, attributes, or relationships
of Jesus were, as revealed to man by
fcimself, they were but the reflex of
man's nature as the offspring of God,
as shown in the saying of Jesus : — " I
am the vine ; ye are the branches."
From this, his own happy illustration
from nature, we learn that as the
branch possesses all and every property
of the vine that bears or produces it,
(being in principle and nature the same,)
bo the disciples or Apostles of Jesus
were, as himself, the sons of God, the

heirs of his glory, and possessing"" the
inherent principles of his greatness ; and
as there is no conceivable extent to
which a perpetually-growing branch of
a vine would not reach, in the course of
an interminable increase or growth, so
with the believing children of God.
When they enter upon the path of
obedience to the Gospel of the king-
dom, it is the opening up to them of
the principles of an eternally-progres-
sive movement onward and upward to
all that greatnesa and glory of the
Father of which Jesus was the bright
reflection, as he was the image of bis
(the Father's) person.

From the foregoing, it is evident that
man's adaptability to the fulfilment of
the purposes of his creation is provided
for in nis constitutional endowments,
and also in the educational provisions
of the Gospel, the concurrent evidences
of which most clearly show the pur-
poses of God in the creation and con-
stitution of man to be that he might
extend over him his own paternal
government, and by so doing raise him
to glory, immortality, and eternal life,
to five and rule and reign with himself
in a condition of happiness and glory
that should fa boundless in extent and

354

DESIGN OF GOD, &C.

endless in its duration and increase, as
the Prophet declares — 44 Of the increase
of his government there shall be no
end."

From the consideration of the prin-
ciples involved in the law of God's King-
dom, and his work as revealed and
preached by Jesus, we learn that the
universal prevalence and triumph of
truth coincident with the development
of the government of God is made to
be more or less influenced by the con-
tingency of man's belief or unbelief in
the Gospel. This view of the matter
brings to our minds, in all the force of
truthful reason, the causes that have so
often, in the history of God's dealings
with man, partially or altogether
crushed out from the earth the repre-
sentatives of truth, leaving the hopeful
to still hope on — the unenlightened
and degenerate to still linger on the
slaves of sin and corruption, until the
hearts of the people in later ages of the
world's history should become so
changed that they would become the
entablatures on which the law of the
Lord and of life shall be written, thus
bringing about the happy consumma-
tion so long predicted, that the know-
ledge of God will cover the earth as
the waters cover the great deep.

This condition of the earth, when
filled with the knowledge of God, was
that for which the Saints in all ages
had hoped, but died without seeing it ;
and bv them its realization was left to
increase the stores of blessing for
a happy future. Thus, while they
struggled with the power of sin, and
saw its almost universal and undisputed
Bway over the world, they confessed
that they were strangers on the earth ;
yet they hoped for its ultimate emanci-

Sation from the bondage of sin. A
laniel saw if wheu the God of heaven
should set up his kingdom, and Ezekiel
when the law of the Lord should be
written in the hearts of the people, and
Isaiah when the Zion of God should
extend its rule over all the earth, and
the Apostles of Jesus when he should
come to reign and rule the world in
righteousness ; whioh happy day the
Apostle Paul declares shall not come,
except there come a falling away first.
So we see that so late in the history of
the world as the time of the fore-
mentioned Apostle this great realization

of the Saints' hopes in the universal
triumph of the Gospel was yet by the
unbelief of the people placed far in the
future ; and while the star of hope shed
its cheering rays along the path of the
humble, trusting believer, the gather-
ing clouds of dark apostacy cast their
sombre shadows across the hope-lighted
path of the Saint.

Hence Jesus looked to the future for
the accomplishment of his work in the
coming kingdom and glory of his
Father, and taught his disciples to pray,
saying, " Thy kingdom come," showing
plainly that its advent was yet in the
future, and its establishment on the
earth still to be influenced by the
fidelity or infidelity of men for the truth
of its Gospel, which the Apostles were
sent to preach to every creature, thus
keeping the great idea of one universal
brotherhood before the minds of men as
the purpose and work to be accomplished
through the preaching of the Gospel
and the belie* in the same on the part
of the people. Hence the reasonable con-
sistency of the prayer — " Thy kingdom
come, thy will be done, as in heaven so
in earth." On this point we would
suggest this query, Is there more than
one government in heaven, and aught
but the most implicit obedience to the
institutions of the same, producing
thereby the harmonious bliss and
happiness of the bright abodes of the
blessed and saved of God's children ?

To still further satisfy the inquirer
that the establishment of the kingdom
of God was a work yet in the future
from the days of John the Revelator,
we will notice his declaration in reference
thereto : — " And I saw another angel fly
in the midst of heaven, having the
everlasting gospel to preach unto them
that dwell on the earth, and to every
nation, and kindred, and tongue, and
people, saying with a loud voice, Fear
Goo: and give glory to him, for the hour
of his judgment is come; and worship
him that made heaven and earth, and
the sea, and the fountains of waters."
(Rev. xiv. 6, 7.)

From this we learn that the Gospel
had yet to be preached in the future oy
the angel. We say in the future — first,
because it could not be preached in the
past ; and in the then present, his aid
to preach it to the nations was not
needed, ujgy^tf Jesus' own choice

DESIGN OF GOB, &€.

355

and ordination were in the world to do
the work assigned them. So we see
that there was not at that time any
necessity for or reason why an angel
should preach or declare that the hour
of God's judgment had come, But the
" falling-away" spoken of by Paul
would create a necessity for the angelic
ministration which was shown to John
as conaected with and preceding the
building up of the kingdom of God by
the promulgation of his statutes and
judgments, whereby the inhabitants of
the world may learn righteousness, and
be able to worship the great King of
heaven and earth, and thus fear God
and give glory to him when he should
make bare his arm in the sight of the
nations, to accomplish his own glorious
work of the latter days, in the transcen-
dent glory and grandeur of which the
wonders of the Bed Sea, with all the
darkening plagues of Egypt and all the
glory of Sinai made dreadful with the
presence of its God, were all to be
forgotten in the stupendous greatness
and glory of that work which the
ReveLator tells us was to be as he saw
it announced to the waiting earth and
its teeming millions, by the heavenly
messenger declaring that the hour of
God's judgments had come. No leading
of a few semi-barbarians, who knew
barely enough to wonder, and through
wonder were led to fear; but instead
of this, a gathering from all the nations
to build the kingdom that shall not
yield to the seductive influences of
idolatry or the clamour of unhallowed
passions, but shall move steadily onward
from its inauguration until its imperial
proportions shall reach an extent that
all nations shall find security beneath
its banner, and the beneficent influence
of its divine institutions shall diffuse
happiness and bliss through all the
extent of its rule.

Then the glory of the deliverance of
a single people from servile bondage
will be forgotten in the redemption of a
world from the bondage of sin and
death. So the Latter-day Work will
surpass in glory the works of all the
preceding dispensations, as far as the
completion of any work is more glorious
than its beginning or any intermediate
Btage of its progressive existence.

The glory of the Latter-day Work is
not in the dividing of seas or rivers, to

cause the ignorant multitude to gaze
with stupid wonder at what was to them
totally incomprehensible ; but, instead
of these, the genial influence of the Holy
Ghost shed abroad in the hearts of
humble, trusting believers in the Gospel
of the kingdom, through the educational
influence of which the millions that
gather around the standard of Zion —
the contributions from all nations — will
be taught of the Lord, that they may
walk in his ways, and thereby attain
to the blessings of immortality and
eternal life. Such will be the character
of the assembled hosts of the Zion
of God, when in the fulness of its

Eerfections it shall become a crown of
ving light and glory to the earth — a
happy realization of hopes long deferred,
and the accomplishment of a design in
the existence, constitution, and exalta-
tion of humanity as grand and glorious
as the mind of our Father, who, through
his exhaustless stores of knowledge,
entertained the glorious conception, so
grand in extent, and so richly fraught
with blessings to the countless subjects
of his prospective world-wi.de empire.

To reach this great and glorious con-
summation, through the development
of intellectual human existence, is the
purpose that stands prominently forth,
and is most plainly evinced in the
Scriptural revelations as the design of
our great Father in sending forth upon
the earth his numerous progeny, with
their constitutional adaptation to the
ultimate fulfilment of the design of their
being in the development and establish-
ment on and over the earth of heaven's
own institutions and laws for the
guidance of humanity, through its
probationary journey to power and
greatness.

Such was the Gospel of the kingdom
preached by Jesus and the Apostles,
which also was identical with the
teaching of God to Israel in the wilder-
ness, and also the faith delivered to the
Saints of the earliest times, ever having
but one object to be accomplished by its
revelation, which was the inauguration
of a continuous struggle with and
against the power of evuT The history
of God's dealings with his people since
the earth has been the home of his
children, is but the history of the prose-
cution of this great war between the
principles of truth and error, light and

366

KXPEBIENCE.

darkness, life and death, and good and
evil, each holding an influence with and
over man in a degree that ever corres-
ponded with his devotion or submission
to their respective influences. Hence,
the unbelieving in the days of Noah
perished, while the believers were
saved from the calamities that involved
the world in ruin. So, in like manner,
Israel, because of unbelief, did not enter
into the rest that was offered them.
Thus the triumph of truth, on account
of the great wickedness of the many, and
the small numbers that received it, was

(To bee

at every successive effort for its establish-
ment defeated, thus prolonging the
struggle, and leaving its termination in
the mture, until the close on the
earth of the Apostles* labours, who,
like the fathers who had preceded
them in the great struggle of truth for
its legitimate supremacy in the earth,
fell asleep with this dying acknow-
ledgment on their lins, thax they were
" strangers and pilgrims on the earth,"
and the realization of their fond hopes
was in the triumph of truth among the
joys that a happy future would disclose*

EXPERIENCE.

It is a well-known proverb which
says — " Experience makes fools wise."
This, doubtless, is true in relation to
some, but not to all. For instance,
where is there a man or a woman that
is not convinced that drunkenness is an
evil ? Nevertheless, how many thou-
sands there are that daily revel in it,
going on year after year fooling away
their time.squandering their hard-earned
pittance, destroying their health, and
abusing that Being to whom they are
indebted for their existence! Then
look at the great "social evil." Are
we not all convinced that it if an evil,
and one of fearful magnitude P Yet,
withal, will men and women cease their
licentious practices P Will they refrain
from committing vice P Will they cease
to lead the young and inexperienced
into those paths which they themselves
have trod, and which experience has
taught them are slippery and to be
shunned P No ; but week after week,
and month after month, some are to be
found so enamoured of sin that they
take delight in spreading it far and
wide, and in corrupting all who come
within their reach. Has experience
made them wise P No : fools that they
are, they seem to be unsusceptible and
incapable of learning; they seem to
take pleasure in destroying the beautiful
and fair, and in spreading wickedness
on every hand.

We will now turn our attention in
another direction, and see what expe-
rience has taught us. By experience,
then, we are convinced that man, not-

withstanding his professed love and
veneration for the truth, has a general
dislike to the truth, and is opposed to
receiving it, but more especially if he
thinks that it will affect his interest at
all. Hence he has seen fit to call this
truth new, and the other truth old.
But how a truth can consistently be
called new or old we cannot conceive.
That which is true to-day has always
been true, and ever will be. Truth
cannot be changed. We have not
always been in possession of so much
truth as we are to-day ; but that can-
not make truth new : it only proves
that we were ignorant of it before, or
that to us it was undiscovered ; that is
all. To the prattling babe and the
peevish schoolboy the simple fact that
space is boundless is not known ; they
are ignorant of it : but, because of that,
is it a new thing under the sun P Cer-
tainly not. History tells us that when
the celebrated Harvey discovered that
the blood flows through the veins,
a series of persecutions were raised
against him, and that eventually he lost
the greater part of his practice through
the slanders of his calumniators. But,
because of this, did that prove that the
doctor's theory was not true till he
made it known P Verily, no. The faot
that the blood flows through the veins
was always true, but not always known
to us. When the celebrated Stephenson
conceived it possible for a steam-engine
to fly through space at the rate of sixty
miles an hour, and when he made his
project known to the scientific world.

EXPKKIENCB.

367

what did one of its members say P —
" Would not desperate people as soon be
shot out of a gun as to travel by such
means P" — so great was his objection to
receive truth, and so opposed was he in
his feelings to receive anything that
would benefit the world. Now we do
not consider ourselves " desperate peo-
ple," although we travel at the rate of
sixty miles an hour ; for we would just
as soon travel at that rate as at any
other, and sooner ; for we have no relish
now to travel at the old stage-coach
rate.

Let us now turn our thoughts in
another direction, and see what expe-
rience has taught us in matters of
religion ; and in this we shall confine
ourselves to one system, known to the
the world by the name of " Mormonism."
This by some has been called a new
system. Its doctrines have been called
new ; and because of this many have
refused to obey them : but will not a
moment's reflection convince us that
they are not new P Is it a new thing
under the sun to have faith in God, to
repent of sin, and to be baptized in
water for the remission of sin P No : the
Saviour of the world and his disciples
who lived eighteen centuries ago taught
these doctrines ; and if they taught
them, how in the name of common sense
can they be new P We would not, how-
ever, have any infer that 44 Mormonism"
is made up or these doctrines alone. It
teaches many other great and glorious
principles whioh may be proven from
the Bible. " Mormonism" is made up
of all truth — of everything that is great
and good, lovely and sublime.

No sooner did Joseph Smith declare
to the inhabitants of America that he
had been blessed with a visitation from
a holy angel, than the great and the
small, the rich and the poor, the learned
and the unlearned raised the hue-and-
cry of "False Prophet! Impostor!
Deceiver of the people !" and exerted
their utmost strength to stop the spread
of what they regarded as delusion. But
then they were deceived ; they lacked
experience, and erred through want of
judgment. But what shall we say, after
years have rolled away, and time has
been afforded them to gain experience P
Can we say then that men were
deceived, that they lacked experience,
and erred from want of judgment P

No. To some other cause, then, must
we attribute their doings.

After the Church of Latter-day
Saints had been established a few
months, we learn by its history that its
leader became the subject of a series of
persecutions, and that in the course of .
time other members of the Church
also began to feel the ill effects of the
spirit then in existence, and ultimately
the Chnrch as a body, till we find that
only two years had elapsed since its
organization before the Saints, number-
ing some thousands, were compelled to
abdicate their houses and flee Defore a
ruthless mob. What was the cause of
this P It is said that there is a cause
for all things: then there must have
been a cause for this. Let us endeavour
to define what it was; and in attempting
this task let us divest our minds of pre-
judice, and view things as they are, and
be determined to receive truth, if it is
presented to us.

We are told, then, that Joseph Smith
professed to be a Prophet of God raised
up in this the evening of time to usher
in the last dispensation, and to prepare
the way for tne second coming of the
Son of Man. Now, is there anything in
this that is particularly extraordinary,
that is unworthy of belief, and that
deserves our censure P 44 Yes," says one ;
41 the days of Prophets are past, and
all who believe otherwise are deceived."
But does the Bible justify us in this asser-
tion P or does it not lead us to believe that
the days of Prophets are not past P Paul
tells us(Eph. iv. 11—15,) that Apostles
are needed: " till we all come to a unity of
the faith." Now, have mankind come
to a unity of the faith yet P No ; for
we have the faith of the Catholic and of
the Protestant, the faith of the Wesleyan,
the Baptist, the Unitarian, and others,
which neither time nor space will allow
us to enumerate at this time. Then, if
we are to believe Paul, we must believe
that the days of Apostles are not past.
Again : We say that God placed Apostles
in the Church for the 44 work of the
ministry," for the 14 perfecting of the
Saints," and for the 44 edifying of the
body of Christ." Here, then, are three
things in particular for which Apostles
were placed in the Church. Now, if
the work of the ministry can be carried
on without Apostles — if the Saints can
be perfected without Apostles — if the

Digitized by

358

EXPEBIENCK.

body of Christ can be edified without
Apostles, then we must charge God
with folly for placing men in his Church
that were comparatively useless or
unnecessary.

Again : By reference to Rev. xi. 3 — 1 1 ,
we find that at some period of time sub-
sequent to John's day, the God of
heaven would send two 44 witnesses*' who
should prophesy "a thousand two
hundred and threescore days." How-
ever, in the economy of God, it appears
that they 44 shall be slain," and their
" dead bodies shall lie in the streets of
the great city where our Lord was
crucified." Now, if we can find out
where our Lord was crucified, we may
know where these Prophets will be slain.
During the time that their dead bodies
are to lie in the street, the people that
dwell upon the earth are to 44 rejoice
over them," and to " make merry," and
to send 41 presents one to another,"
because these two Prophets are dead
that 14 tormented" them ; and if such is
not the case, the Bible will fail to
receive its fulfilment.

We now inquire, Have these two Pro-
phets been? If so, when did they
come P and to whom did they come P
When and where were they slain P
and by whom were they slain P and what
nation or people gives an account of
their appearance and assassination P
Furthermore, if it cannot be proven
that these two Prophets have been, are
the Christian world right in saying that
the days of Prophets are passed, seeing
that two have yet to come P And on
the other hand, are the Latter-day
Saints wrong in believing that the days
of Prophets are not passed, seeing that
two have yet to appear P

We have now found out why the
Saints suffered persecution. It was
because of their professions. Now,
what has been the policy of the Ame-
rican people towards the Saints from
the time they held their first Conference
in New York until the present P Have
they not sought by all manner of means
to overturn the Church, destroy the
Saints, and break them up as a body P
How many times have the Saints been
driven from their homes, all their
goods confiscated to the <srowd, and
their property laid waste P Let stern
facts answer. Five times have the
Saints been driven, and with what

view ? With a view of destroying them.
And this is not all. They have not only
been driven from their homes, but book
after book has been written, tract after
tract has been put in circulation con-
cerning them, and lies have been
published of the most scurrilous kind,
till the country is completely flooded
with 44 Exposures of Mormonism," and
every book-stall has become a repository
for 44 Mormon exposures and blasphe-
mies." And furthermore, the leaders of
the Church have been slain, in the hope
that 44 Mormonism" would fall. Mis-
creant after miscreant has sought, by
every mean artifice possible, to inculpate
the innocent and good, and to stay the
onward progress of God's work. But
all in vain. We say vain, for what have
the world accomplished, after all their
laborious study and research — after
exhausting all their wisdom to stay the
progress of 44 Mormonism" — after all the
mobbings and drivings and persecu-
tions to which they have subjected the
Saints P Is 44 Mormonism" no more ?
Is it crippled in its march P Is it a
nonentity P Is it a thing of the past P
No ; it is of the present ; it still exists*
not in the imagination only, but is a
living wonder ; and to-day the Saints
are more powerful, more terrible in the
eyes of the world, and more to be feared
than ever. This is not the testimony of
one only, but of hundreds of thousands.
The Saints know it, and the world
feel it.

But, says one pious objector, 11 Joseph
Smith was not persecuted for his
religious tenets ; it was for the crimes he
committed, the immoralities he prac-
tised, and the frauds he perpetrated.
In reply, we would say, If his crimes
were so great, his immoralities so many,
his frauds so outrageous, why did not
the rulers of the land punish him for
them P Surely they had ample oppor-
tunity, seeing that he was arraigned
before them thirty-nine times ! lee :
but the one great cause why they did
not punish him was, he was not guilty.
What say Messrs. W. R. Chambers, in
their 44 History of the Mormons," when
speaking of the charges alleged against
Joseph Smith P They say tne charges
14 were never substantiated ;" and if they
could not be substantiated where they
were said to be committed, surely we
who live some thousands of miles away

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH*

359

cannot substantiate them, and should
therefore hold our peace.

In reviewing what we have written,
we find that experience has taught us,
in connection with other things, that
" Mormoni8m" has thriven under all the
persecution that has been brought to
Dear upon it, and that it has outlived it
all. Surely this would not have been
the cape had there not been some
Almighty power sustaining it. The
wealth of the wealthy, the learning of
the learned, the influence of the influ-

ential have not sustained it. No ; for
by these " Mormonism" has been opposed
and denounced. Nothwithstanding, it
has stood, lived, and conquered, com-
posed of the poor and supported by an
unseen hand. If we are wise men, we
will profit by our experience ; and if we
have persecuted the Saints in days gone
by, we will persecute them no longer.
May we be wise and profit by the past,
and secure to eurselves an eternal rest
in the mansions of the future.

W. T.

(Continued f%

Monday, 15. — At home settling with Dan
Jones for steamboat " Maid of Iowa." She
has returned in debt about $1,700. After
much conversation and deliberation, I agreed

to buy out Jones, by giving him property in
the city worth $1,2^31 dollar ,, and assuming
the dents.

1 rode out in the afternoon .

The Twelve Apostles arranged the
appointments for the General Confe-
rences in the United States as follows :

Quincy, 111., Sat. and Sun. May 4 and 5
Princes Grove, „ „ „ „ 11 12

Ottowa „ „ „ 18 19

Chicago „ „ „ 25 26

Comstock, Kail am a^

boo county, Mich. „ June 1 2

Pleasant Val., „ „ „ 8 9

Frankland, Oakland

county, Mich. „ „ 15 16

Kirtland, Ohio „ „ „ 22 23

G. A. Neal's, six
miles west of Lock-
port, New York „ „ „ 29 30
Batavia, „ „ „ July 6 7
Portage, Alleghany

co.. New York „ „ „ 13 14

Hamilton, Madison

co., New York „ „ „ 20 21

Oswego, N.Y., Sat. and Sun. June 29 and30
Adams, Jefferson

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

page 343.)

eo., New York „
London, Caledonia
co., New York „
Northfield, Wash-
ington co., ten
miles south of
Montpelier, at
Lyman Hough-
Ws, N. Y. „
**irSeld,Esiiexco.,
at Elder Tracy's,
New York
Bo§ton, Mass. „
8alem > „ „
New Bedford „ „

July 6
Jane 15

7
16

29 30

„ 13
Ju e 29
July 6
it 13

14
30
7

Peterboro, N. H. „
Lowell, Mass. ,,
Scarboro, Maine „
Vinal Havon, „ „
Westfield, Mass. „
Farmington, Conn.,,
New Haven, „ „
Canaan, „ ,,
Norwalk, „ „
N. Y. City, N. Y. ,.
Philadelphia, Pa. „
Dresden Weekly
county, Tenn. „
Eagle Creek, Ben-
ton co., Ten., „
Dyerco.,C.H. „ „
Rutherford co. C.H.

Tenn. „
Lexington, Hender-
son, co., Tenn. ,,
New Albany, Clin-
ton co., Ky. „
Alquina, Fayette co.

Ia. „
Pleasant Grdn, la. „
Fort Wayne, Ia. „
Northfield, Boon
co., Ia. „
Cincinnati, Ohio „
Pittsburgh, Pa. „
Leechburgh, „ „
Running Water
Branch, Noxuble
co., Miss. „
Tuscaloosa, Ala. ,,

»» »»

13andl4
27 28

7
14

28
4
11

25
18
31 Sep. 1

„ May 25 and 26

6
13

, Aug. 3
, i , 10
, „ 17
, „ 24
17

June

»» t»

„ July

„ Aug. 3

„ June

l> »»

It tt

tt It

„ Julv

„ May

„ June

i» »>

2
23

Washington City, D. C, Sept. 7, 8, 9, 10,
11, 12, 13, 14, 15.

We also publish the names of the
Elders who are appointed to the several
States, together with their nppoint-
ments. Those who are numbered with
the figures 1 and 2' will take the pr< *i-
dency of the several States to which
they are appointed.

Digitized by

860

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

MAINS.

J. Butterfield 1st Jonathan H. Hale
Elbridge Tufts 2nd Henry Herriman
S. B. Stoddard John Moon

NEW HAMPSHIRE.

W. Snow 1st
Howard Egan 2nd
Alvin Cooley
John S. Twiss
Charles A. Adams
Bethuel Miller
A. D. Boynton

MASSACHUSETTS.

Daniel Spencer 1st George Lloyd
Milton F. Bartlett " * "* ~ "
Daniel Loveland
Joseph J. Woodbury
W. H. Woodbury
John R. Blanchard

Harley Moray
Israel Barlow
David Clough, sen.
Calvin Reed
Chilion Mack
Isaac Burton

Orlando D. Hovey
Nathaniel Ashby
Samuel P. Hoyt
Daniel W. Gardner

RHODE ISLAND.

William Seabury 1st Melvin Wilbur
Thos. McTaggart

CONNECTICUT.

E. H. Davis 1st Quartus S. Sparks

Erastus Snow 1st
William Hyde
Denman Cornish
Jeremiah Hatch
Martin Titus
William Haight
John D. Chase
Josiah H. Perry
Amos Hodges •

NEW

C. W. Wandell 1st
Marcellus Bates 2nd
Truman Gillett
A. A. Far n ham
Edmund Ellsworth
Gregory Bentley
Homer C. Hoyt
Isaac Chase
Simeon A. Dunn
Daniel Shearer
James W. Phippin
J. H. Van Natta
Samuel P. Bacon
Bradford W. Elliot
J. R. G. Phelps
Joseph B. Noble
John Tanner
Thomas Fuller
O. M. Duel
Samuel White

Warren Snow
Dominicus Carter
Levi W. Haneock
Alfred Cordon
Charles Snow
James C. Snow
A. M. Harding
Isaac Houston

W. R. R. Stowell Archibald Bates

William D. Pratt David Pettigrew

Marcellus McKeown Ellis Eames
Horace S. Eldredge

NEW JERSEY.

Ezra T. Benson 1st John Pack

PENNSYLVANIA.

YORK.

William Newland
Allen Wait
William H. Parshall

C. H. Wheelock
Timothy B. Foote
George W- Fowler
Henry L. Cook
William W. Dryer
Elijah Reed
Solon Foster
Hiram Bennett
Chandler Holbrook
Lyman Hall
William Felshaw
Daniel Fisher

D. H. Redfield
Martin H. Tanner
G. D. Goldsmith
Charles Thompson
B. C. Elsworth

(To be

D. D. Yearsly 1st
Edson Whipple 2nd
John Duncan
Stephen Post
G. W. Crouse
Jacob Shoemaker
Stephen Winchester
Hyram Nyman
J. M. Cole
Charles Warner

Wm. P. Mclntyre
Jacob Znndall
Orin D. Farlin
Henry Mouer
G. Chamberlain
Thomas Hess
A. J. Glaefke
Henry Dean
James Downing

John Jones
Warren Snow

DELAWARE.

Jonathan O. Duke
Justus Morse

MARYLAND.

Jacob Hambliu Patrick Norris
Lyman Stoddard

VIRGINIA.

B. Winchester 1st
S. C. Shelton 2nd
Geo. D. Watt 3rd
Chapman Duncan
Joseph King
Peter Fife
Robert Hamilton

James Park
A. W. Whitney
Pleasant Ewell
W. E. Higginbottom
John F. Betts
Alfred B. Lambson
David Evans

NORTH CAROLINA.

A. McRae 1st John Holt

Aaron Razer 2nd John Houstoun
Thomas Guymon James Sanderson

George Watt

SOUTH CAROLINA.

Alonao Le Baron 1st Ekells Truly
John M. Emell William Smith
William D. Lyman

GEORGIA.

Miles Anderson
S. E. Carpenter

Morgan L. Gardner
Isaac Beebee

KENTUCKY.

John D. Lee 1st
D. H. Rogers
Samuel B. Frost
John O. Angus
Charles Spry
john H. Reid
William Watkins
continued.)

D. D. Hunt
M. B. Wei ton
Horace B. Owens
Joseph Holbrook
Hiram W. Mikesell
Garret W. Mikesell

Mode of Tying Horses.— The Icelanders have a curious custom of preventing horses
from straying. Two gentlemen, for instance, are riding together without attendants ; and
wishing to afight for the purpose of visiting some objects at a distance from the road, they
tie theliead of one horse to the tail of another, and the head of this to the tail of the former.
In this state it is utterly impossible that they can move on, either backward or forward*
one pulling the one way, and the other the other ; and therefore, if disposed to move at all*
it will be only in a circle.

Digitized by

Google

XSITOBIAL.

361

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, June 8, 1861.

WHAT THE SAINTS MUST DO WHO WANT TO EMIGRATE.

Dubing a recent visit to a Conference held in the town of Derby, at which we
enjoyed ourselves exceedingly, the poverty and difficult circumstances with which
many of the Saints have to contend, both throughout that district and other
districts, were brought home in a forcible manner to our feelings. The closing
of the American market, in consequence of the internal troubles of the nation,
has had a very depressing effect upon almost every branch of trade
throughout this country. There is no manufacturing district that does not groan
under the loss of trade, consequent upon the divibion of the United States.
The nations which compose Babylon are so intimately connected by commercial
ties that misfortune cannot overtake one without others being more or less
affected by it. Especially is this the case with England, a large portion of the
capital and labour of her people being devoted to the manufacture of articles for
which she must find customers. The nation of the United States has been one of
the best of these, and the stoppage of the orders from there must be seriously felt.

As the prospects are that business will grow worse instead of better, with only
short intervals of prosperity and briskness of trade at best, the inquiry naturally
arises — " What are the Saints who are in this country, and who wish to gather,
to-do ?" They are mostly poor, earning but little more than sufficient, at the best
of times, to supply their daily wants. It is plain to be seen that if they have no
greater faith within them and no greater blessing resting upon them than have
those who do not make the professions they do, they will have to remain in
Babylon and partake of her plagues, &c. But the Gospel that has been preached
in its fulness to the world, and has been embraced by the Latter-day Saints,
has been sent purposely to create a distinction between those who believe it and
those who reject it. If properly believed and obeyed, it bestows the faith and
power necessary to fulfil every one of its requirements and injunctions. It would
not be consistent with the Lord's mode of dealing with his people to command
them to do some certain work, and not to open or prepare the way whereby they
should do that work. He does not require anything unreasonable or impossible
of his people, and when he tells them to do a certain thing, (as for instance, to
come out of Babylon,) if they go to and try to do so, he nover fails to afford them
the needed assistance until they accomplish it. If they be poor and destitute,
his command is to them as much as though they were rich and had an
abundance ; and having given the command and required obedience on the part of
those to whom it is given, of course he will make it possible, if they do their part.
Do the Saints throughout this Mission believe and act up to this P If they do
not, it is time they did ; and the Elders should impress the necessity of doing
it upon them.

Idle professions of faith will never accomplish anything. God requires an
active, living faith, and perfect trust in his promises. He never will desert a
person or people that put their trust in Him. By the exercise of this principle

Digitized by

362

EDITOBIAL.

must the poor Saints be gathered from these lands. They must cry mightily unto
the Lord for faith, and plead unceasingly with him to open their way before
them and remove every obstacle from their path. And if they have been and
continue to be diligent in the discharge of their duties, punctually responding to
the requirements of the Lord through his Priesthood, what they ask will be
granted ; for they have a claim upon his promises that is irresistible when
properly urged. There is a power in the possession of the obedient and faithful,
of which they know but little until they exercise it. Its exercise causes it to be
developed.

Where the love of the truth and the desire to be associated more intimately
with its adherents are the predominating feelings, no means are left untried to
gratify them. We never knew the desire to gather to Zion to be the all-absorbing
desire of a man or woman or family, for any length of time, without its being
gratified, — because, where that is the case, everything is made to bend to the
accomplishment of such a purpose. People will labour, having it in view, —
regulate their living and expenditures, having it in view, and keep both eyes
wide open to perceive any opportunity that may offer to enable them to achieve
it. Such a course is the practical working of faith — faith exhibiting itself by
works. Upon such a course the blessing of the Lord ever attends ; and when it
would seem sometimes as though not another step forward could be taken — as
though the way was completely walled up, He opens the way, removes the
obstacles, and bestows the means necessary to accomplish the desired end.

It is with no transient feeling that we pen these sentiments. Their importance
has ever been with us since landing upon these shores. Everything we see and
learn respecting the movements among the nations of the earth and the condition
and circumstances of the Saints impresses them with greater force upon our mind ;
and we feel that if the Priesthood and Saints will unite in a mighty effort during
the time that remains from now until next emigration season opens, entreating
the Lord for his blessing upon us, there will be a numerous ingathering to
Zion, and thousands will be delivered from bondage.

Abstract of News from the Conferences, &c. — Elder Mills, in a letter
from Birmingham, dated May 28th, says — " I am busy every day and evening
visiting the country Branches, and returning to this town to keep all things up
for the Conference here. A good spirit prevails generally, and the brethren are
alive and active ; but the difficulties in America affect this manufacturing dis-
trict alarmingly."

Elder Dallin, in a letter from Newcastle-on-Tyne, May 24th, says — " We are
doing our best to keep things moving for our Father's interest. We have opened
up our out-door preaching, and thus far we have received good attention,
which is truly cheering to us in having an opportunity of telling the people about
the glorious truths of heaven which have made us so free."

EHer Bramall writes from Southampton, under date of May 29th, that " that
Conference is very much scattered, with plenty of large towns within the circle
of the Conference, and a good opportunity to preach the Gospel in a great many
places." He then says — " I instructed the Elders, both local and travelling, to
commence their open-air preaching, and endeavour to spread the Gospel among
the people."

Elder Van Cott, President of the Scandinavian Mission, on his return to Den-
mark, after having accompanied the emigrants from that region to Liverpool,
en route to America, writes from Copenhagen, May 25, as follows : — After leav-

MINUTES OP ANNUAL CONFERENCE.

363

ing you at Liverpool, I had a quick and prosperous journey to Grimsby. Wo
armed at Hamburg on Monday, 10 p.m. While on the steamer, I received excellent
treatment from Captain Wharton and all hands. I also was favoured with a free
passage. Tuesday 21st, I spent most of the day with Mr. Ballin, of the firm of
Morris and Co., Hamburg, and was very kindly entertained. I left in the evening by
railway for Kiel ; from thence by steamer to Kosor ; from thence by railroad to
Copenhagen, where I arrived at 11 a.m. of the 22nd. I found things moving
along here about as usual. From several letters which I have received from the
Mission, I learn that the work is still onward : many are investigating the Latter-
day Work, and the prospect for the future is no less favourable, to all appearance,
than it has been for the few months past."

Movements of the Presidency. — Presidents Lyman and Rich left Liverpool
on the 24th ult. for Ireland, where they contemplated remaining two weeks.

THIRTY-FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE

OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS.
(From the Deseret yews.)

The General Conference of the Church
convened in the Tabernacle, Great
8alt Lake City, Saturday, April 6, 1861,
10 a.m., President Brigham Young
presiding.

There were on the stand —

Of the First Presidency — Presidents
Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and
Daniel H. Wells.

Of the Twelve Apostles — Orson Hyde,
Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, George
A. Smith, Ezra T. Benson, Lorenzo
Snow, and Franklin D. Richards.

Of the First Presidency of the Seven-
ties—Joseph Young, Levi W. Hancock,
Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert
P. Rockwood, and Horace S. Eldredge.

Of the Presidency of the High
Priests — Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel

Bichards.

Of the Presidency of the Stake —
Daniel Spencer, David Fullmer, and
G«orge B. Wallace.

Of the Presidency of the Bishopric —
Edward Hunter, Leonard W. Hardy,
tod Jesse C. Little.

Of the Patriarchs — John Smith and
Isaac Morley.

Reporters — George D. Watt and
John V. Long.

The Conference was called to order.
The choir sang — " The morning breaks,
toe shadows flee."

Elder Lorenzo Snow offered prayer.

Choir sang — " Praise ye the Lord ; 'tis
good to praise."

Elder E. T. Benson was called upon

to address the congregation. He ex-
pressed himself highly pleased with the
opportunity of meeting the Saints in
General Conference. He bore a strong
testimony to the truth of the Gospel of
Christ revealed to this generation by
Joseph Smith ; testified that the people
had no need to search for any other or
any stronger testimony than that which
they have already received. He exhorted
the people to faithfulness, that they
might win the prize, and said he
rejoiced to know that the Almighty is
just as ready as he ever was to bestow
his Spirit upon his chosen people.

President Daniel H. Wells said that
Elder Benson's text was a very good
one, and well worthy of consideration
by all. It was " Latter-day Saint." It
was highly necessary that we should
learn what it takes to constitute a Saint.
It is the duty of every one to study to
be virtuous and true — to be God-like in
all our acts, This is certainly a work
of time, but we should be constantly
progressing in the knowledge of the
truth, and strive to gain light through
that channel of communication that is
open between the heavens and the earth.
He spoke of the power, the glory, and
the eternal reward that lie before the
true-hearted Saint. The promises of
reward and exaltation are enough to
enwrap in bliss and glory every thought
of the numan heart, and every idea we
have received. What more could we
have to induce u§ to pursue the right

Digitized by

364

THIRTY-FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE.

way, he asked, inasmuch as it carries
its own reward with it P He regretted
that the blessings were so little appre-
ciated by the wayward, and even by
the Saints of the Most High, in com-
parison to what they should be. It
appeared that the people often forgot
their duties, and suffered darkness to
creep into their minds and cover up
the little light that was there. We
should all see and realize the importance
and greatness of the work in which we
are engaged. It is our duty to draw
light from the fountain of wisdom, and
then extend it to others. We can ail
see the distress of nations, the confusion
of the wicked, and the distracted
condition of all the governments of the
world : hence how thankful we should
be that the light of this Gospel has
reached our hearts and opened our
understandings, and that we have been
plucked as brands from the burning,
and have been brought into this blessed
inheritance.

President Heber 0. Kimball said that
the feelings of his heart were, God bless
the Saints, and peace be multiplied
unto them ! He respected and loved
good men and women who were striving
to do the will of Heaven. He reasoned
upon the subject of the vine, as spoken
of in the Gospel of St. John. Spoke of
the necessity of the people praying that
the First Presidency and the Twelve
Apostles might be baptized into one
Spirit. He quoted the text — "Resist
the Devil, and he will flee from you,"
and said that he had only to add, that
although the Devil would flee when
resisted, he would watch every faithful
Saint. The Adversary may, and doubt-
less will, overcome some of this people,
but that will not affect the kingdom of
God. It will stand for ever.

He also counselled the people to be of
one heart and one mind — to do as they
were told — to be united in all things for
the building up of the Church and
kingdom of God, of which we are
members. He told the Saints to go to
work and adorn the earth — to strive to
make themselves happy and indepen-
dent, both in food and raiment.

President Brigham Young said he
was thankful for the privilege of meeting
with so many brethren and sisters in
General Conference. He hoped yet to
Bee a house large enough to hold the

people, but did not know that we should
ever see a building capable of holding
them on this side of the day of rest.
We have generally had the privilege of
meeting in the open air, but the state of
the weather now precludes our doing so.

. He observed that the Book of Mormon
was translated in the immediate neigh-
bourhood where himself and brother
Kimball resided ; still it was two years
before they were baptized into the
Church. Since then, the people have
passed through a great deal, and have
earned much of the things of God. He
reasoned upon the subject of miracles,
and asked — If he saw a man turn a
stick into a serpent, sand into lice, and
water into blood, what proof such things
would be that the man was sent of God ;
and answered that it would be no proof
of that at all, for there was only one
reliable kind of evidence that a man is
sent by the Almighty and that is the
Spirit which Jesus diffused among his
disciples.

He alluded to Saul, who in his dark-
ness and sin went to the witch of Endor
for information. We can now realize
more fully the blessings attendant upon
our being driven to these valleys ; for
had we remained, we should have been
obliged to mingle, to some extent, in the
turmoil and strife that now afflict this
nation. We can see the nations of the
earth gradually gliding to the borders
of the precipice of eternal ruin. Said
how much he had reflected upon the
subject of our being called back to the
centre stake of Zion, and he felt to
counsel the Saints not to be too anxious
for the Lord to hasten his work, but to
turn their attention to the sanctifying
of their own hearts, and thereby pre-
pare themselves for the great things
that await the people of God.

His counsel was, Seek not to bring
destruction upon the wicked, but let
the Lord have his own way and his own
time, and let us be diligent in preparing
ourselves for those times that are com-
ing. Let each and every one be true)
to their covenants, and to each other.
He longed to see the lime when the
people would be ready to receive the
counsel of God, and live by it. If tha
counsel of the servants of God is harsh,
and is not acceptable, it is either be-*
cause it is not the truth, or that we am
not right before God. If the Almighty

Digitized by

COBBBSPONDSNCB.

365

speaks from heaven, and we are not
pleased, and therefore do not receive
it, we are not in the enjoyment of the
Spirit of truth.

He remarked that he sometimes won-
dered if the great men of our nation
ever asked themselves the question, How
can a Republican government stand P
There is trot one way in which it can
endure, aad that is as the government
of heaven endures upon the eternal rock
of truth and virtue. Said if Martin
Van Buren had ordered the State of
Missouri to restore the Latter-day
Saints to their property, the nation
would have been much stronger to-day

(To be

than it is. Although he had no reason
to doubt that President Lincoln is as
good a man as ever sat in the chair of
state, yet he is powerless, because of
the corruptions that have been intro-
duced and fostered by the chief men of
the nation. They have put aside the
innocent, justified thieving, and every
species of debauchery, and have fos-
tered every one that plundered the
coffers of the people, and have said let
it be so.

Choir sang — " Arise, glorious
Zion."

Benediction by President Joseph
Young.

CORRESPONDENCE.

IRELAND.

Dublin, May 27, 1861.

Dear brother George, — Your favour
forwarded on the 25th came to hand
yesterday, and we return it to you this
morning. The spirit from home breathes
encouragement to the struggling poor,
who hope and pray for deliverance, and
anxiously await its seemingly tardy,
though sure coming.

After parting with you at the docks
on Friday evening, we passed as best we
could, with what little of philosophy we
could bring to our aid, the time of our
waiting, in all of which, Time pro-
pitiously aided us by continuing its
onward flight. At length the monotony
of our waiting, as well as its silence,
was broken by an admonitory peal
from the bell. Then came the con-
sequent excited hurry of those not yet
on board, and the hasty leaving of
those who were not to remain; and
then came the welcome order to " cast
off," and in a few moments we were
gently gliding away from a locality and
scenes that our few weeks stay at
Islington had caused us to regard with
feelings of home attachments. As we
passed silently on, the surrounding still-
ness was now and then broken by the
hoarse cry of the captain to the mate,
which evinced to us that the eye of
sleepless vigilance was cognizant of our
silent movement, which imparted the
comfort of security to our opening
journey. And as we glided out from
the dock into the Mersey, a vision of
dazzling brilliance and beauty burst

upon our view. In opposite directions,
up and down the river, were to be seen
lengthened lines of brilliant lights,
extending their night-cheering beams
as far as the eye could reach. But we
were not the only watchers of this
nocturnal picture of artistic loveliness.
As if to assure us that with sleepless
eves the heavenly watchers were keeping
their vigils over us, the stars were
looking out upon the nightly scene
around us, whilst, over all, the moon in
queenly majesty was shedding the
bright halo of her silvery light. So,
while surrounded by earthly beauties,
and heaven-starry jewels were decking
the sable curtain of night, our good
ship was moving bravely along in her
watery path. To her own strength
and Heaven's protection we commended
her, with her living freight ; and with
brief prayers for home and the loved
ones of its sacred circle, we sought
freedom from care in the sweet oblivion
of sleep.

Saturday, 25th. — On awakening this
morning, we felt some of that very un-
pleasant disquietude known as sea-
sickness; but, to comfort us in our
sickly sorrow, the steward kindly
informed us that we were nearing our
landing. On consulting our register of
passing time, we found the hour to be
eight instead of nine, as promised for
our arrival at Kingstown. Our landing
at this point is in a small basin-shaped
bay, surrounded with substantial ma-

366

CORRESPNDENCK.

date. As we were landing, a gentle
shower of much-needed rain was falling.
We here took cars for Dublin ; and as
we sped along our iron track, which
lay along the margin of the coast, on
the landward side, we caught a hasty
glimpse ot the lovely scenery that lined
our way. Beautiful enclosures, rich
in nature's lovely embellishments, rose
in quick succession to cheer the sight.
There the tree clothed in the verdant
habiliments of spring, with the blushing
floweret that exhales its sweets and un-
folds it beauty to cheer the contem-
plative lover of nature's charms. To
the surrounding scenes the earth-carpet
of modest green added its beauty, in the
midst of which arose in beauty and
loveliness the temple of home, dedicated
to the interests of humanity, in the
sanctum sanctorum of which should ever
rest the altar of peace, from which
should ascend the offerings of gratitude
from hearts moved by truth's heavenly
impulses Such purity within would
but be in harmony with the external
beauties that met our passing glance as
we rolled hurriedly by. A half-hour's
ride brought us to the city of the Irish-
man's pride, of which I may something
in my next.

With kind regards, in which brothers
Rich, Crawley, and Smyth join, I sub-
scribe myself

Your brother in Christ,
Amasa M. Lyman.

P.S. — The Saints here are well and
are feeling well, and hope for better
times. They welcomed us warmly.

Our health is not good. We leave here
on Wednesday next, and shall be in
Belfast on Thursday.

ENGLAND.
Manchester, May 29, 1861.

Dear brother George, — Since leaving
you in Liverpool, I have been labouring
in Oldham, Ashton, Stockport, Bolton,
Bury, and Blackburn. Last night .1
attended meeting in Manchester.

The Saints feel as well as can be
expected under the circumstances. In
consequence of the strike among the
operatives, many of our people have
had to contend with many difficulties, to
which the Whitsuntide holidays have
contributed their share towards impo-
verishing the Saints. A great numta
of them, in consequence, were destitnte
of employment all last week, which of
course makes them feel depressed in
spirits as well as pocket. However, by
the help of my Heavenly Father, I
trust I shall be enabled to inspire them
with a hope of a good time coming.

I intend going to Boohdale to-day to
endeavour to organize a Branch of the
Church somewhere in that part of onr
District. I shall, if all be well, return
here on Friday or Saturday next to
meet brother Dame, who at present is
among the Branches.

May the Lord bless you in your
labours to build up the kingdom of onr
God, is the prayer of your fellow-
labourer,

John Kay.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

AMERICAN.

The Union Convention at Wheeling has
refused to pass an ordinance for the division
of the Scares of Virginia, but has called a
General Convention for the 11th of June.

The Kentucky Legislature has passed a
resolution maintaining the neutrality of the
State, and approving the Governor's refusal
to suppl > troops to the Federal Government.

TheNcv Orleans telegraph states that
the remainder of the Federal troops in
Texas have surrendered to the secessionists.

The ?>ort of Charleston is now under
blockade, and no inward bound vessels are
allowed to pass the barriers of steam and
iron which the Government have erected at
the mo t h of the harbour. British ships
have been refused entrance into the harbour.

GENERAL

The Paris correspondent of the Bcah)
News states, from a semi-official source,
that negotiations are still actively going on
with a view to the withdrawal of the French
troops from Rome; and that the French
Ambassador, who was on the point of leav-
ing, has been ordered to remain at his post
till the 10th or 15th of June.

The brigands who attacked the dfr of Sort
were commanded by Chavrone. On being
pursued by the Italian forces, they recrossed
the Roman frontier, after burning the vil-
lage of Castleluccio. M. de San Martin©
has inaugurated his government with great
firmness. He has despatched orders to the
provinces to suspend the execution of the
brigands who ^^eondemned.

THINGS "WORTH REMEMBERING. VARIETIES.

367

The Journal de St Petersburg says that
General Soukhdzanett, has been provi-
sionally entrusted with the administration
of Poland, with the rights of a lieutenant of
the Emperor. He will be assisted by
General Milatine, who will direct the
Ministry of War.

Conflicts have taken place between the
police and the people before the Carmelite
Church at Warsaw, occasioned by the former
taking down the names of those who sang
the national hymn. Gendarmes were des-
patched to the scene of the disturbancefand
established order.

The Vienna correspondent of the Times
says the persons killed by Russian troops
near Kasan were peasants who refused to
do any more work for their feudal lords.
The number of peasants shot by Russian
troops on the plain at Besneck was about
200. The serfs in the governments of

Perm, Penza, Tambov, Saratof, and Kinrose
are difficult to manage, and it is feared that
they will refuse to till the soil unless they
are paid for their labour.

In Athens, several officers of high rank
and some subalterns have been arrested.
Ministers summoned in council. Domiciliary
visits made: reason not known, Great
uneasiness.

According to telegrams received here
from Constantinople, the International
Conference, at its third sitting, accepted the
proposition of France that Syria should be
governed by a single Christian Chief. A
telegram from Constantinople announces
another massacre by Montenegrins of Mus-
sulmans, who were escorting a convoy of
provisions destined for the city of Niksich.

A reinforcement of 8,750 soldiers has been
despatched to the French expeditionary
corps in Cochin China.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

Celtic Language. — The language of the ancient Britons, previous to the invasion of
Julius Caesar, was the Celtic.

Ides. — In the Roman calendar, the Ides were the 13th day of each month, excepting
March, May, July, and October.

Pekin. — Pekin, the capital city of China, containing a population of 2,000,000, is
surrounded by walls forty feet high, having sixteen gates leading into the city. Over
each gate is a watch-tower nine stories high. The streets run in straight lines,
those of the greatest importance being from 140 to 200 feet wide, and three miles in
length.

National Measures. — The mile measure is, in England and the United States, 1,760
yards; in Scotland, 1,984; in Ireland, 2,240 ; in France, 3,025; in the Netherlands,
1,093; in Spain, 2,472 ; in Germany, 10.120; in Sweden, 11,700. The yard measure
is, in England, 36 inches; in France, o9.13 ; in Spain, 33.04; in Prussia, 36.57 ; in
Austria, 37.35 ; in Russia, 39,51 ; in Geneva, 57.60.

'* Cicerone." — A 44 cicerone" is the name given to a guide who points out to travellers
interesting objects in Italy. This name is derived from the guides indiscriminately
calling every statute or picture a "Cicero," when they do not know whom it represents.
The term has by degrees come into use as reprsentative of persons in any place who
undertake to be guides to others when visiting museums galleries, &c.

14 Kepler's Laws. — The following are the laws of the courses of the planets established
by Kepler, a German astronomer — namely, 1. That the planets move in elliptical orbits,
of which the sun is one of the foci. 2. That an imaginary line drawn from the sun to
the planets^ (called the radius vector,) always describes equal areas in equal times.
3. That the squares of the times of the revolutions of the planets are as the cubes of their
mean distances from the sun."

VABIETIES.

The Mother. — Young man, thy mother is thy best earthly friend. The world may
forget you — thy mother never ; the world may wilfully do you many wrongs — thy mother
never ;" the world may persecute you wmle living, and when dead plant the ivy and the
nightshade of slander upon your grassless grave— but thy mother will love and cherish
you while living, and if she survive you, will weep for you, when dead, such tears as none
but a mother knows how to weep. Love thy mother !

POETBT. ADDRESSES.

New Clock. — An " atmospheric clock" has been recently invented. This clock is
said to be in appearance like a long thermometer, but is without the bulb of mercury
at the bottom. It has a glass tube about three-eighths of an inch in diameter, and the
length of the thermometer -like frame : this tube is secured to the frame by two bands,
through which the tube easily slides. Inside the glass tube is another and smaller glass
tube, at each end of which is a portion of mercury and a scrap of blotting paper, or other
absorbent material, for the purpose of absorbing' any damp which might find its way rato
the tube. About an inch and a half from each end of the inner tube is a small throat
through which the mercury has to pass. On each side of the glass tube are the divisions
of time. The mercury in the top end of the tube is placed opposite the proper time, and
it descends to the bottom of the tube exactly as the time lapses. "When the mercury has
reached the bottom of the tube, the. frame can be turned, and the mercury set to the same
time on the other side ; and so the time may be continually indicated. It is a sort of
perpftuil hour-glass.

Ti e Moon and the Weather.— M. Connick's letter to the Courrier des HaUes is
exciting great attention. It will be remembered that Marshal Bugeaud had proclaimed
the discovery of an ancient Spanish manuscript, in which the natural laws which govern
the atmosphere were so clearly laid down that nothing was left to chance, and projects
could be made with the greatest security. These calculations, based upon fifty years*
experience, comprising 600 revolutions of the moon, had enabled the author to foretell
the weather to a nicety; and the Marshal, struck by the confidence with which the theory
was broached, after taking some little trouble to practise the same rule of calculation,
found it unerring likewise. M. de Connick now comes forward with his experience alav
and at. length we can boast of possessing a key to the pranks of the moon, which will
henceforth render them completely harmless. This is it : — The weather, eleven times out
of twelve, is exactly the same during the whole moon as on the fifth day, if, on the sixth
day, it resembles the fifth ; and nine times out of twelve it is exactly the same as the
fourth day, if the sixth day resembles the fourth. This rule, says M. de Connick, is
found invariable eight months in the year. The exceptions have hitherto been October,
February, March, and April.

POETRY.

DISSOLUTION OF THE AMERICAN UNION.

wilt be said, now the Union is severed,
those who have boasted of glory and fame ?

now arc the hopes and the joys they had
measured,

To last while Columbia holds her dear name?

Alas ' they are gone, like the spirit departed,

Leaving tho body of co d clay behind.
Or the widow bereft and half broken-hearted,
Bemoaning her fate, some solace to find.

As the ship in the ocean, that's tossed by the billows,
When tierce lightnings flash and loud thunders roar,

Birkenhead.

Whose bulwarks are gone, while she bends lik*

willows.

Dismasted, forsaken, and cast on the i

So the Union Is broken, because men r
The Prophet of God, who plainly foretold

How soon it would come Though little expected,
Tho fate of the nation all now can behold.

How often have Elders of Tsrael been spumed.

Since the angels of God revealed the word
To (rather the wheat, that tho •tares mav be burned I
Even so it shall be, for thus saith the Lord.

Addrissks.— W. O. Mils, 384, Farm-street, Birmingham.

David M. Da vies, Wcrn Ten-ace, Llanelly, Carmarthenshire.
Thomas W. Recs, near Margaret- street. *Ora won Terrace, Tvdfil's Well, M
Robert Sands, 89, Hospital-street, Hutch isontown, Glasgow.

— _

CONTENTS.

Design of God in the Constitution of Man 353 Correspondence — Ireland

Experience 3S6

History of Joseph Smith 359

Editorial — What the Saints must Do who Want
to Emigrate.— Abstract of News from the Con-
ferences, &&— Movements of the Presidency.... 3fil
Thirty-first Annual Conference 363

Letter from President
Lyman — Kngland : Letter from Elder Kay 3**

Summary of News and Passing Events - **

Things Worth Remembering

Varieties

Poetry — Dissolution of the American Union
Addresses

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.

LONDON -.

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30. FLORENCE STREET, CHOSB ST REFT

ISLINGTON; AND A LL B00KSELI^jEE^^^ TO,:! ^5 TV '

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

A nob* thaO corns e**ntotk* mdtof tU oartk ; for tht Lord hath a tomtrormy with Oi nation : JUwtt
' piaad with ill flesh; towWLgUf thorn that art widUd to the sword, saith tht Zord."— Jbmmuh.

Ho. 84, Vol XXTTT. Saturday, June 15, 1861. Price One Penny.

THIRTY-FIRST ANNUAL CONFERENCE

OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAT SAINTS.
(ConeUkdodfrompags 165.)

2, P.M.

The meeting commenced by the choir
singing — " Great God, attend while Zion
sings."

Prayer was offered by Bishop Lorenzo
IK Yonng.

Ohoir sang another hymn.

President Young requested the atten-
tion of the congregation till the several
Quorums of the Church were presented
for their sanction and approval.

Elder J ohn Taylor then presented the
authorities of the Church as follows : —

Brigham Young, as President of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints; Heber C. Kimball, his First, and
Daniel H. Wells, his Second Counsellor :

Orson Hyde, as President of the
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles ; and
Orson Pratt, sen., Wilford Woodruff,
John Taylor, George A. Smith, Araasa
Lyman, Ezra T. Benson, Chas. C. Rich,
Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow, Franklin
D. Richards, and George Q. Cannon, as
members of said Quorum :

'John Smith, Patriarch of the whole
Church :

Daniel Spencer, as President of this
Stake of Zion ; and David Fullmer and
George B. Wallace, his Counsellors :

William Eddington, James A. Little,
John V. Long, John L. Blythe, George

Nebeker, John T. Caine, Joseph W.
Young, Gilbert Clements, Brigham
Young, jun. f Franklin B.Woolley, Orson
Pratt, jun., and Howard Spencer, as
members of the High Council :

John Young, as President of the
High Priests' Quorum ; Edwin D. Wool-
ley, and Samuel W. Richards, his Coun-
sellors :

Joseph Young, President of the first
seven Presidents of the Seventies ; and
Levi W. Hancock, Henry Herriman,
Zera Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood,
Horace S. Eldredge, and Jacob Gates,
as members of the first seven Presi-
dents of the Seventies :

President Brigham Young arose and
gave the following instruction: —

" We shall readily perceive that the
Quorums of the Seventies are some*
what different from other Quorums in
the Church. The Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles is ^ne Quorum ; they
are the Apostles US all the world. The
High Priests' Quorum is strictly but
one Quorum, though many Quorums of
High Priests are made to accommodate
members of that Quorum living in dif-
ferent localities. The Seventies are
definitely multiplied by Seventies. The
first Seventy was called in the winter,
of 1835— the winter after we returned *

Digitized by VjOOQ[C

370

TBdBTT-FIBST ANNUAL CONFEHBNCE.

from Missouri. What is called ' Zion's
Camp* went to Missouri in 18$$.' The
next following winter the Twelve Apos-
tles were chosen. The Prophet Joseph
also then began to .organise Quorums of
Seventies. He organised one Quorum ;
then* he told the brethren to^call up
other Elders and ordain them into the
Seventies, forming another Quorum of
Seventies, and then another, and then
a fourth Quorum, and a fifth, and a
Bixtlj, &c. How many Quorums are
there now, brother Josepl^ P. [Brother
Joseph : " 62."] There are now sixty-
two Quorums of Seventies.

The first Quorum of Seventies, where
are they P Seven of them are here as :
First Presidents of the Seventies, and
sixty-three of them now stand at the
head of different Quorums of Seventies. .
Sixty-three of them have been made
Presidents over Quorums. It works
very differently to what it does in other
Quorums in the Church. That leaves
the first seven men, apparently isolated,
over the body of the first Seventy.
The Quorum they were called to preside
over have been taken and made Presi-
dents of other Quorums ; consequently,
there are only seven men now belong-
ing to the first Quorum. Do we say
that is a fact P No, only apparentlv ;
for, when the seven Presidents over tne
first Quorum wish to call their Quorum
together, (they meet in Quorum meet-
ings such as you attend frequently in
the Seventies' Hall,) they call the Presi-
dents of the various Quorums together,
and that is virtually their Quorum.
There are now seven Presidents to
transact business, to guido, dictate, and
direct the Presidents of all the Seven-
ties, and to call and ordain other
Quorums of Seventies. This virtually
makes them the Presidents of all the
Seventies. What is their true position
in the kingdom of God P They are the
first seven Presidents of all the Seventies.

Brother Joseph is the senior President
over the first seven Presidents of the
Seventies. Brother Orson Hyde is the
senior man now in the Quorum of the
Twelve Apostles, of those first chosen
into that Quorum. This calls him, by
his age, to be the President of that
Quorum. Now, I will go a step further
for your consideration. The oldest
man — the senior member of the first
Quorum — will preside, each in his turn,

until every one of them has passed
awaj. The ndxt Quorum that comes
into action may take the senior man for
a President, but not until the first
Quorum is, gone. / Brother Orson ^Hyde
and brother Orson Pratt, senior, are the.'
only two that are now left in the
Quorum of the Twelve that brother
Joseph Smith selected. Perhaps there
are a great many here who never thought
of these ideas, and never heard anything
said 'about them.

I will remark a little further. When
brother Lyman Wight was ordained
into the Quorum of the Twelve, he was
an older man than I, and yet I was the
President of the Twelve. He and others
believed that he ought to be the Presi-
dent ; but you can read the revelations
in- the Book of .Doctrine an^d Covenants.
The Lord said to Joseph — ' I have given
to you my servant Brigham to be the
President of the Twelve.' Lyman
could not be President of the Twelve.
This will explain all that is now neces-
sary on this point.

To return to the Seventies. The first
seven are now presented. They are a
body of men presiding over ill the
Seventies, and they are all Presidents ;
but in all organized Quorums in the
kingdom of God there must be a head,
or a presiding officer, as well in the first
Quorum of Seventies as in others, as
you can read in the revelations."

Elder Taylor then resumed present-
ing the authorities as follows :—

John Nebeker, as President of the
Elders' Quorum ; and E In a than Eldredge
and Joseph Felt, his Counsellors :

Edward Hunter, as Presiding Bishop;
Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little,
his Counsellors :

Lewis Wight, as President of the
Priests' Quorum; William Whiting and
Samuel Moore, his Counsellors :

McGee Harris; as President of the
Teachers' Quorum; Adam Speirs and
David Bowman, his Counsellors :

John S. Carpenter, as President of
thd Deacons' Quorum ; William F. Cook
and Warren Hardy, his Counsellors:

Brigham Young was presented as
Trustee-in-Trust for theChurch of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints :

Daniel H. Wells, as Superintendent of
Public Works :

Truman O. Angell, Architect for the
Church :

Digitized by

THHITY -PIEflT JOHKUXL CONFBBBKCE.

373

it was our duty to remember, first of all,
the Giver of those gifts ; and people who
do not do this will meet with losses.
The time will come when this people
will be obliged to stand isolated from
the nations of the earth ; hence the pro-
priety of endeavouring to increase our
home manufactures.

He told the people that machinery for
the manufacture of paper had been
brought into the Territory at a great
expense, and he wished the sisters to
save their cotton and linen rags, and
the brethren to grow more flax and
hemp, so that we may be able to print
our own school-books, and also to print
the History of Joseph Smith in volumes.
He observed that it might seem strange
to some that he should speak of such
things on the Sabbath-day, and when
the sacrament was being administered.
He would like to speak upon the spiritual
things of the kingdom, but this appeared
to be the best opportunity of getting
the subject before the brethren from
the country settlements; and if we
were to neglect our temporal duties, we
could not enjoy the spiritual. He
urged the brethren to raise more sheep,
to take better care of them, and to pre-
serve the wool, make clothes of it, and
stop going to foreign markets. He
made some appropriate remarks on the
subject of domestic economy. Alluded
to the attempts to manufacture iron
having cost us over 150,000 dollars,
and said that the only difficulty was —
there was a lack of union in those who
professed to know how to make it ; and
instead of uniting their abilities and
making the iron that we so much need
for the nail-factory and other purposes,
they all contend for and are determined
that they will have the credit of making
the first iron in tke Territory.

After speaking of the manufacture of
sugar, the raising of cane, and tobacco-
growing, he took up the subjects of the
word of wisdom and celestial marriage ;
the particulars of which will appear in
the verbatim report.

Elder Jefferson Hunt made" a" few
enlivening and interesting remarks!

The Conference then adjourned till
the 6th day of next October, at 10 a.m.

President Brigham Young blessed the
people in the name of the Lord, and
told them to go in peace, and the
blessings of the heavens should go with
them.

The choir sang—" The Spirit of God
like a fire is burning."

The concluding benediction was
given by President H. O. Kimball :—
"O God the Eternal Father, in the
name of Jesus Christ thy Son, we, thy
servants and handmaids, offer up to
thee the gratitude of our hearts for thy
loving-kindness. We thank thee that
we still live upon the earth and have
the privilege of coming together at this
Conference to worship thee, to call upon
the name of our Father and God. We
also thank thee for the information we
have received through thy servants.
We pray thee to forgive all our sins, to
sanctify our hearts and all that is
within us, that our whole spirits and
bodies may be subject to thee, and we
be in thine hands as the clay is in the
hands of the potter, that our whole lives
may be spent to the honour and glory
of thee, our Father who art in heaven.

Wilt thou endow us with every neces-
sary qualification, that we may honour
ourselves, our God, and his Son Jesus
Christ, that the Holy Ghost mav take
up his abode with us and dwell with us,
that he may be our companion and show
us things to aome.

We pray that all this people — yea, in
all the settlements in the State of
Deseret— may be filled with the power of
God, and that all thine Elders m every
land and nation may be filled with the
revelations of thy Spirit and with
desires to do thy will. May thine
indignation be against our enemies and
the nation that has made war with thee
and thy kingdom in the latter days.
Let them be broken to pieces like a
potter's vessel.

Now, O Father, bless this land. Let
thy choicest blessings be upon the hills
and mountains, upon the fountains of
water, upon the valleys, our wheat, our
grass, and the timber that is in the
kanyons ; and, finally, our Father, let
thy blessings be upon our families — upon
our wives and children. Bless also every
person upon the earth that favours
Zion and helps to build up the kingdom
of God.

Hear us in these things, accept our
thanks, and the glory and honour be to
God and the Lamb for ever and ever I
Amen."

;j. V. Long,
Clerk of the Conference.

Digitized by

374

HI8T0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH,

HISTORY OE , JOSEPH SMI^H.

(Continued from page 360.)

TBNWE**EE. '

A. O. Smoot lut J. J. Castedl
Alphonzo Young 2nd J.' A. Kelting

W. W. Riley
Amos Davis
L. T. Coon
Jackson Smith
W. P. Vance
H. D. Buys
A. D.Young
Joseph Younger
G. W. Langley
G. Penn

J. Hampton
Alfred Bell
Arm stead Moffit
D. P. Rainey
James Holt
Warren Smith
J. J. Sasnett
H, B.Jacobs
John L. Fullmer
Joseph Mount

ALABAMA.

B. L. Clapp 1st L. D. Butler
G. W. Brandon y. J p Brandon

MISSISSIPPI.

Daniel Tyler

J. B. Walker
Ethan Barrus

LOUISIANA.

J. B. Bosworth 1st John Kelly
H. H. Wilson George Few

Wm. Nelson Lorenzo Moore

ARKANSAS.

•A. A. Simmons'
• Darwin Chase

Lozenzo Snow 1st
L. Brooks 2nd
Alfred Brown
J. J. Riser
J. Carroll
L. O. Littlefield
J. M. Powers
Milo Andrus
John Lovelace
W. H. Folaom
John Cooper
S. Carter
John Nichols
David Jones
Nathaniel Childs
Jesse Johnson
J. A. Casper
Joseph Rose
W. Brothers
Jared Porter
John W. Roberts

J. A. Mcintosh
Nathaniel Leavitt

OHIO.

William Batson
G. C. Riser
Clark Lewis
B. W. Wilson
A. W. Condit
• Loren Babbitt
Elijah Newman
Milton Stow
Edson Barney
Hiram Dayton
Jacob Morris
Ezra Strong
J. M. Emmett
Allen Tulley
P. H. Young
S. P. Hutching
J. H. Foster
Nathan T. Porter
Ezra Vincent
Lysander Dayton

INDIANA.

Amasa Lyman 1st U. V. Stewart

G. P. Dykes 2nd
A. L. Laraoreux
Charles Hopkins
F. M. Edwards
Salmon Warner
F. D. Richards
S. W. Richards
John Mackley
James Newberry
Abraham Palmer
John G. Smith

Washington Lemon
Edward Carlin
L. D. Young
Wm. Snow
Nathan Tanner
Wm. Martindale
Henry Elliott
A. F. Farr
John Jones
Frederick Ott

Wm. Savage
David Savage
Graham Cottrin
Samuel Parke
Je
C.

S D

Wm. GribbhT

ILLINOIS.
E. H. Groves 1st John Vance
Morris Phelps 2nd S. Mullinor
H. Dim stead, Galena John Gould
H.W.Barnes, do. Zenos H. Curley
Hiram Mott Jefferson Hunt

Charles C. Rich:
Harvey Green 2nd
Thomas Dunn
R, C. Sprague
Joseph Curtis
Zebedee Coltrin
Reuben W. Strong

l. n. r

David Candland
W. A. Duncan
Wm. O. Clark
Alii tun Bathrick
P. H. Buzzard
Zachariah Hardy
John Hammond

\Y. I-lirkerson
Daniel Allen
David Judali
Thomas Dobson
James Nelson
David Lewis

Jacob L. Burnham
I). J. Kcr*hner
N. Leavett
John Laurence
Nathan A. W. *t
Levi jackman
Abel Lamb
Howard Coray
Stephen Markham
Levi Stewart
James Graham
Timothv S. Hoit
Duncan Mc Arthur

MISSOURI.

A. H. Perkins 1st Wm. Coray
John Lowry 2nd O. M. Allen
Wm. G. Rule Wm. H. Jordan

WISCONSIN TERRITORY.

S. H. Briggs

FREE.

F. Nickerson 1st L. S. Nickerson

A.. C. Nickerson

Those Elders who are numbered in the
foregoing list to preside over the different
States will appoint Conferences in all places
in their several States where opportunities
present, and will attend all the Conferences,
or send experienced and able Elders, who
will preach the truth in righteousness, and
present before the people 44 General Smith's
Views of the Powers and Policy of the
General Government," and seek diligently
to get up electors who will go for him for
the Presidency. All the Elders will be
faithful in preaching the Gospel in its sim-
plicity and beauty, in all meekness, humi-
lity, long-suffering, and prayerfulness ; and
the Twelve will devote the season to travel-
ling, and will attend as many Conferences
as possible.

Elder B. Winchester is instructed to pass
through Mississippi, Alabama. Georgia.
North and South Carolina, and Virginia, to
visit the churches, hold Conferences, and
preside over them.

Brigham Youiro, President-
W. Richards, Clerk of the Quorum of the Twu T c.

Digitized by

Google

HISTOBT OF JOSEPH SMITH.

375

I copy from the Washington Qlobe of
the 14th March :—

"A New Advocate for a National
- Bank. — We hare east our eyes hasi ily ever
' Genet al Smith's (Mormon Joe) 4 \iews of
the Powers and Policy of the Government of

* the United States. Nauvoo, 1644.' This
illustrious individual 4 goes the whole figure?,
with Messrs. Clay, Webster, Sargeant, and

• the Whig party in general, for a national
bank. After this, who can doubt the pro-

Jriety of such an institution f Here is
oe's" plan for a 4 fiscal agent,' which is
. quite as sensible, both in nature and object,
as the famous fiscalities.

For the accommodation of the people in
every State and Territory, let Congress
show their wisdom by granting a national

• bank, with branches in each State and
Territory, where the capital stock shall be
held by the mother bank, and by the
States and Territories for the branches,
and whose officers ; and directors shall be
elected yearly by the people, with wages at

• the rate of two dollars a day for services ;

• which several banks shall never issue any
more bills than the amount of capital stock
in her vaults, and the interest. The nett
gain of the mother bank shall be applied to
the national revenue, and that of the'
branches to the States and Territories'
revenue. And the bills shall be par through-
out the nation, which will mercifully cure
that fatal disorder known in cities as
.brokerage, and leave the people's money in
their own pockets. » . t

The Prophet seems to be thoroughly im-
bued with the Whig financial doctrines.
He wants a national bank for the * accom-
modation of the people,' and to save the
Federal and State treasures from taxation.
In two respects, however, we think Joe's
plan has decided advantages 'over those of
Messrs. Clay and Webster. He sticks to
the specie basis, dollar for dollar ; and his
{dan is more economical, as the officers are
tp be elected by the people, * with wages a£
the rate of two dollars per day.' There is
another recommendation, however, of this

great financier,' which we fear will some-
what embarrass the practical, operation of
his scheme. He tells tjje people : —

4 Petition your St&te Legislatures to par-
don every convict in the several peniten-
tiaries, blessing them a* they go, and saying
to them in the natne # <Jf the Lord — ' Go thy
way, and sin no more.'

«JWe fear that \f this humane recommenda-

# tion be adopttf , the * specie basis' would
• •••toon disappear from Joe's mother bank and

t *%ranches, including that of Nauvoo, which

• %puld quickly show a * beggarly account of
$nyty boxes.'

Perhaps, however, we are unnecessarily

apprehensive of the small thieves who fall
into the clutches of the law, since the gCeat
thieves, who robbed millions from the late
Whig bank and its satellites) arepermitted to
. roam at large with perfect impunity. * Upon
the wholes however, we will do General
• Smith the justice to state that we think* his
financial doctrines more sound, his views
more honest, aud his scheme more feasible
than those of the hypocrites and quacks,
who, supported by a great, party, . have
fleeced the country to the very quick, and
are now eager to repeat the application of
the- shears.

The following passage calls vividly to
•mind Mr. -Clay^s Hanover speech, in which
he promised a perfect millennium to the
country, as soon as the Whig President
should be elected

'The country will be full of money aad
confidence, when a national bank of twenty
, millions and a State bank in every State
with a million or more give a tone (an order
of nationality) to money, matter**, and make
a circulating medium as valuable in the
purges of a whole community as in the cof-
fers of a speculating banker or broker.'

The Prophet is not only thoroughlv im-
bued with the financial doctrines of the
Clay and Webster school, but has caught
the very tone of their 4 eloquence.'

The General is not an admirer of law-
yers. 'Like the good Samaritan,' he ex-
claims — ' Send every lawyer, as soon as he
repents and obeys the ordinances of heaven,
to preach the Gospel to the destitute,
without purse or scrip, pouring in the oil
and the wine.'' How it must have delighted
his heart to learn that the pious Daniel has
lately become an eloquent preacher ! — though '
we fear he does not ' repent and obey the
ordinances of the Gospel,' nor is contented —
not he— to preach ' without purse or scrip,'
however willing to ' pour in the oil and the
wine.'

We cannot refrain from treating our
readers to the following passage;* in which
our friend Joseph so eloquently describes
the defeat of Mr. Van Buren. We have
read nearly all the Whig slang on this same
subject, and we have met with nothing to
equal the gloomy grandeur of this por-
tentous paragraph : —

'At the age, then, of sixty year?, our
blooming republic began to decline, under
Mr. Van Buren. Disappointed ambition,
thirst for power, pride, corruption, party
spirit, faction, patronage, perquisites, fame,
tangling alliances, priestcraft, and spiritual
wickedness in high places struck hands and
revelled in midnignt Bplendour. Trouble,
vexation, perplexity, and contention, mingled
with hope, fear, and murmuring, rumbled
through the Union and agitated the whole
nation, as would an earthquake at the centre

Digitized by

37«

EDITORIAL*

of the earth, heaving the sea beyond^ its
bounds, and shaking the everlasting hills.
80, in hopes of better times, while jealousy,
hypocritical pretensions, and pompous am-
bition were luxuriating on the ill-gotten
spoil 8 of the people, they rose in their
majesty, like a tornado, and swept through
the land, till General Harrison appeared as
a star among the storm-clouds for better
weather.'

After this, won't Mr. Botts give way. and
let General Smith be the Whig candidate for
the Vice- Presidency P But let us finish the
picture : —

•The ^ood man died before he had the
opportunity of applying one balm to ease the
pain of our groaning country; and I am
willing the nation should be the judge
whether General Harrison, in his exalted
station, upon the eve of his entrance into the
world of spirits, told the truth or not, with
acting President Tyler's three years per-
plexity pseudo* Whig-Democrat reign, to heal
the breaches, or show the wounds, seeundem
artem (according to art). Subsequent
events, all things considered, Van Buren's
downfall, Harrison-, s exit, and Tyler's self-
■ufficient turn, on the whole, go to show, as
a Chaldean might exclaim— 44 Beram etai

elauh beshmavauh gauhah rauaeen"— (car*
tainly there is a God in heaven to reveal
secrets).'

Joseph is unquestionably a great scholar
as well as financier. Cannot Mr. Clay
persuade the General to accompany him on
his electioneering tour P With Poindexter,
Prentiss the bear, the borer, Joe Smith, and
a few other quadrupeds to complete his
menagerie, he could not fail to convince
the moral and enlightened people of the
United States of the necessity of a national
bank, and of their duty to make him Presi-
dent.

Before we close, we have a 'few sugges-
tions to make. We propose, then, that Joe
Smith (Mr. Biddle being out of the way,) be
made President, and George Poindexter,
cashier of the new Whig national bank, that
is not to be; that the mother bank be
established at Nauvoo, with branches all
over creation; that the honourable Mr.
Mitchell be appointed Counsel, and that
Mr. Webster have unlimited power to draw,
with Governor Doty of Wisconsin as his
security. With this arrangement we should
have the perfection of a Whig system of
finance."

(To b4 continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, Junb 15, 1861.

OUT-DOOR PREACHING.

The fine, warm weather that we are now having is well adapted for out-door
preaching, and in most of the Districts the Elders are availing themselves of it
to warn and instruct the people. This is well, and we hope that every opportunity
of this kind will be made use of. This method of preaching the Gospel, when
wisely followed, can be made productive of great good. In some places, and
under some circumstances, it may be met with by a spirit of opposition and
persecution — contumely and abuse may be heaped upon those who earnestly and
righteously labour for the instruction and salvation of their fellow-creatures;
but these are difficulties that every servant of God must meet in the discharge of
his duties, and cannot well be avoided. They are the results, in many instances,
attendant upon ignorance ; and, instead of being treated by the Elders in a spirit
of anger, they should be viewed with a feeling of pity. " Father, forgive them, for
they know not what they do," was the sentiment of the Saviour when suffering
under the torment inflicted by his murderers ; and whoso possesses his Spirit
has a meek and quiet spirit, and can impute the opposition of persecutors to their
want of knowledge.

When the Elders go forth bearing the Gospel, they are not required to contend
and dispute because they may be met by those who may have a disposition of this

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

377

kind. Many, in their zeal to propagate and establish its principles, have suffered
themselves to be carried away by a spirit of disputation ; but every one who
knows what the fruits of the Spirit of the Lord are must know, by the fruits
which follow the other, that it is not of God. Its effects are painful in the extreme
to a person who desires to have the lovely and peaceable feelings which
attend the Spirit of the Lord, and which need to be experienced but once to satisfy
such a one that they are not profitable. It is not necessary to display cowardice,
or any doubt as to the scripturality and truthfulness of the principles we believe
and testify of, in avoiding controversy. By exercising wisdom, the Elders can
be true to the principles of the Gospel, true to their Priesthood and its
requirements, and yet neither contend nor quarrel.

There have been Elders who have been so zealous that they felt that they must
talk about their religion and testify of its truth upon any and all occasions,
regardless of everything. What difference to them whether the persons they were
talking to were disposed to listen or not P — they must pour their testimony into every
ear, until, instead of a love for the truth, a feeling of disgust has been awakened in
the breast of many, who, if a proper and wise course had been taken, might not
have persecuted, even if they had never obeyed. While it is the duty of the
Elders to warn the people, it is not their duty to make themselves bores,
pertinaciously insisting upon dealing out their preaching and their testimony
when the people are determined not to listen. If they will not listen, but will
revile and insult those who may talk to them, let the Elders cease talking to them
and leavo them in the hands of the Lord. Having done your duty, you are clear
of their blood. " Oast not your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under
their feet, and turn again and rend you." The imprudent disregard of this counsel
has caused many to be persecuted who have had zeal without knowledge. The
field is sufficiently broad, and there are numbers enough of those who will hear and
obey gladly to occupy the time of the Elders, without their spending it fruitlessly
upon unproductive ground.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — Elder W. Gibson, in a letter
dated from Cheltenham, 4th of June, describing the general condition of
affairs in his District, informs us that " There begins to be a much livelier spirit
in many places. In Hereford, where brother Owen is, there has been quite a
revival in many things. Worcester also begins to look up. Cheltenham, too,
is somewhat improving."

Eider John Brown, in a letter from Maldon, dated June 3rd, says — 14 On my
way from Liverpool to London, I spent two pleasant days with brother Samuel
L. Adams and the. Saints in Coventry. I attended three meetings. The Sainta
there are rejoicing in the truth, and many strangers are attending the meetings
and investigating for themselves. Several had given their names- for baptism.
I spent a few days in London, and I am happy to say that the work is on the
increase in that city. Five were baptized there last week, and the prospect is
good for more soon. Since I have been travelling in Essex, I also find the cause
of truth is onward. We are preaching out-doors every Sunday, which I am
happy to say is attended with good results. We had three meetings in this place
yesterday, one of which was in the open air ; and in the evening Elder Lindsay
baptized three, and others are earnestly investigating. Several others have been
baptized recently in the Conference. 1 *

Digitized by

378

C0BBX8P0NDEKCX.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

. , . Nonriok, Maj 24, 186L

, President. Cannon.

jDear Brother,— On my leaving you
at Liverpool, I proceeded to the Bed-
fordshire Conference, and arriving there

' on the eve of the 22rid April, I found
President Bull feeling first-rate and
enjoying himself with the Saints, preach-
ing to them and exhorting tnern to
faithfulness. From the 22nd April till
the 15 th May, I have been travelling
through the Bedford Conference from
Branch to Branch, holding two meet-
ings on the Sabbath, and meetings
nearly every evening through the week.
President Bull has accompanied me
throughout the Conference, and I can
assure you that we have enjoyed our-
selves together in preaching to the
Saints, and have had good times. Our

- meetings have been pretty well attended
by strangers, and we have had to lead

' them down into the water and baptize
them. Thus we are baptizing a few
in nearly every Branch, which causes
our hearts to rejoice and be exceeding
gl ad that God our Father has called us
to assist to build up his great Latter-
day Work. Not only by the Saints are
our labours appreciated, but by many
strangers. We go into their houses and
have a friendly conversation with them ;
and for the proof that it does good, we
take numbers by the hand and lead
them into the water, leaving them re-
joicing in the gifts of the Gospel.
Their little ones are blessed, and in
nearly every case their sick are healed.
I can say truly that the gifts of the
glorious Gospel are being more and
more enjoyed, which causes us to re-
joice. All our time is employed, feeling
that we have no time to lose ; for we
see all around us the Jionest in heart
panting, as it were, to hear the truth.

On Saturday last, the 18th instant, I
arrived in Norwich; found President
Bentley well and feeling first-rate ; had
a good meeting on Sunday, when much
of the Spirit and power of God was
manifest. This week I have bap-
tized five persons, and some more
have given in their names for baptism
next week. I find President Bentley
actively engaged with the Saints. I
can say truly that God is blessing our

labours. The Travelling Elders are
united with me in carrying out your
instructions. in the Star.

Give, my kind love ?to Presidents
Lyman and Rich, and all in the Office.
Ever praying God to bless you in your
presidency,

I am your brother in the Gospel,
E. H. Blac&bubk.

Burslem, Staffordshire, June 3, 186L

President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— "We are having lively
times in some parts of this Conference
at the present time. The Devil is
stirring up the people to persecute the
Saints. One man by the name of
Shinton has been lecturing against the
Saints, or rather reading An ti- Mormon
works, which has caused quite a stir,
and sometimes we are saluted with a
volley of clods and stones, but no one
has been hurt at present, although win-
dows have been broken. But, not feel-
ing satisfied that the Devil should have
it all his own way, we have been help-
ing him to expose "Mormonism;" and
brother Williams took the liberty to
preach from one of the tracts that had
been circulated against us, to show
the inconsistency of their 'own argu-
ments, which he did to the satisfaction
of those who were honest ; and I believe
it will all result in gooa to the kingdom
of God."

I am happy to be able to state that,
in spite of all the opposition we have
had to contend with, the work of the
Lord is steadily on the increase. In
the last few weeks we have baptixed
18, and have a good prospect of soon
adding others to our numbers. In
some places our meeting-rooms are
much too small to accommodate those
who desire to come to meeting. The
Saints in general are feeling first-rate,
and the Spirit of the Almighty is made
manifest in our meetings in tongues,
interpretations, and prophesyings. The
officers and members, with very few
exceptions, are united with myself m
rolling forth the great work of the las*
days, And are willing to listen to my
counsels and to carry out any sugges-
tions I may make for the advancement
of the same. They are truly a good
people, and, although poor, are ready to

Digitized by

Google

COBBESPONDENCE.

379

divide their last crust with a servant of
God. My heart truly rejoicroan-'the^
work I am engaged in, and my desire
is' to assist Witt fill the energy of. my
body and mind to "roll ft fofth, arid to
be made a blessing to the Saints and
the honest in heart ; and my prayer is
that the Spirit of the Almighty may
ever be with Trie to enable me to per-
form, the duties of my falling in a way
and manner that will be acceptable in>
the sight of God and ray brethren; '
■ May the 1 Lord bless yon abundantly
in your high and holy calling, is the-
desire of your brother and fellow*'
labourer in the cause of truth,

Edward Cliff,

Nottingham, May 29, 1861.
George Q'. Cannon.

Pear Brother, — 4s a favourable oppor-
tunity has presented itself, I think I
will write you these few lines just to
inform you of our welfare and prospe-
rity in this quarter.

For the last few months my labour!
have been confined to this Conference*
which- consists of twelve Branches, lying
in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, all
of which I have the honour of visiting
as fast as circumstances will allow. I
would like to make my visits more
frequent if I could ; but I find it is one
of those "utter impossibilities" to get
around any faster than I possibly can.
Our meetings are very well attended,
considering our popularity. The Saints
are feeling well in spirits, as a general
thing, and rejoicing in the Gospel ; and
many are nattering themselves that
1862 is the eventful year of their deli-
verance and final exit from the
charms of 44 Christianity" and the
blessings of 44 England." The Saints
in this. Conference are entirely free
from 44 worldly riches," and troubled
with no such conveniences ; but
when it comes to true principles and
common sense, I consider they are
rich. I thank God for the privilege of
tiving in this age, and also for the
knowledge I have of the truth of 44 Mor-
monism." I find this knowledge to be
a very good antidote for bashfulness in
preaching the Gospel.

Trade is very dull, but still we ma-
nage to make both ends meet by a little
stretching. The Saints feel willing to
contribute freely of their little to the

upbuilding of the kingdom. I find ^hey
a*e a kind, warm-hearted peopte^nni-
lar to those at home, and by no means

•lacking in l^lfe¥ ; <^4 ! -^P^^ 6ns ' 1
comj^enced my out-d60r' career this
week, neld two meetings, and talked
to over a hundred, each time. Very
good attention was gpven, and no dispo-
sition Of a disturbance, excepting one
old gentleman wh6 seemed inclined to
think- 1 bad lied by saying 4 *A man
- must be born of the* Spirit," &o. I put
him down as being in possession of 1 the
same amount of knowledge as the wor-
thies whom Paul found at Ephesus, who
♦'had not heard that there be any Holy
Ghost.". I am doing all I can to dis-
seminate the principles of the Gospel, as
far as I understand them, among the
honest and dishonest. We anticipate
having < good times this summer. I can
say I never felt better in my life than I
do at the present in spirit. I know that
this is the kingdom of God, and will
eventually fiU the earth ; and any one
that says otherwise will, according to
Scripture, in some future time, find
himself in close proximity to "fire
and brimstone," where 44 water" is the
universal cry. I have attended several
chapels and churches of Divine worship
since I have been here, and returned
with the conviction that Paul's words
were verified, wherein he said that
44 men should have a form of godliness,
but would deny the power thereof
and, according to his instruction,' from
such I have 44 turned away."

A great number have been baptized
in this Conference during the last few
months. Several candidates have made
application, and many think that
44 Hormonism" is 44 just the thing ;"
but still they seem a little backward
in 44 trying it on,"

Brother James S. Brown, our Presi-
dent, is certainly a servant of God. The
fatherly course he has taken in counsel-
ling and advising the (Saints has won for
him their confidence and esteem. His
health has been rather poor, but we
pray that he may be healed. Under
the supervision of such a man as he,
and by our assistance, we expect the
work to spread, and the Saints to pro-
gress in goodness, and the Lord's name
to be glorified among a few more.

Praying the Lord to bless us all with
his Spirit, that we may discharge our

Digitized by

880

CORRESPONDENCE,

duties in righteousness before Him, I
am yours in the Gospel of salvation,
Joseph C. Rich.

SCOTLAND.
Edinburgh, June 3; 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — I have just
returned from a tour through the Edin-
burgh District, with James 0. Brown,
Travelling Elder. The Saints are all
feeling well, and the Priesthood are alive
to their duties as servants of God. All
things begin Jbo work harmoniously in
this Conference. President Reid ac-
companied me last Sabbath to Tranent,
about ten miles from Edinburgh. The
Saints of two Branches were present,
and I never felt to enjoy the Spirit of
God more than I did on that occasion.

On my return to Edinburgh, I found
letters from all parts of my field of
labour, bearing good news.

President Sands reports the Glasgow
Conference in a prosperous condition.
The Priesthood generally are working
in unison with him. He says there,
have been added to the Church between
fifty and sixty this year.

Brother Baxter writes me from Dun-
dee that the work in his field of labour
is widening out. He has baptized 21 this
year, and many more are inquiring.
The Saints and Priesthood are all work-
ing harmoniously. I feel much joy in
my labours among the Scottish Saints.
I am at home in their midst, occupying
every day and every hour travelling
from place to place, teaching and in-
structing the Priesthood the necessity
of being one, that thereby we may prove
to the world that we are the people of
God.

As ever, your friend and brother in
the cause of truth,

David M. Stuart.

FRANCE.
_ „ Paris, June 6, 1861.

President George Q. Cannon.

Things are going on very well in the
small Branch at Paris. The Saints
are doing their best to increase our
number.

After spending about twenty days
among us, Elder Jacob Rivoir, lately
the President of the Italian Mission,
will start this evening for Geneva en
route to his native land.

Elder Gustave Choprix, an intelligent

young man whom I baptized in ParipJ
will leave next Saturday for Bruxells,
his native place. He will use his best
'exertions to open a 4 door in Belgium to
the Gospel of the kingdom. And should
he succeed, I shall Bpend a few days
with him in that country myself, in
order that a new Branch might be
founded there.

Dear President, may the Lord bless
you most abundantly in your present
important mission, is the constant
prayer of

Tours in the Gospel of peace, '
Louis A. Bertband.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Urbans Gade,

No. 149, Aalborg, 29 5, C 1.

President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Concerning affairs
here in Aalborg and Vensyssel Con-
ference, we continue to have favourable
success. In all our efforts to forward
the Latter-day "Work, there has never
been a time like the present since the
introduction of the Gospel here. It
seems to be a general time of regenera-
tion. The Saints are rejoicing exceed-
ingly in the truths of heaven, and
clearly discovering the signs of the
times and the fulfilment of the predic-
tions of ancient and modern Prophets.
New life is invigorating many of the old
Saints. Multitudes of strangers listen
attentively to our testimony, both in
public and private. We have many
respectable mends, besides many who
have lately been naturalized m the
kingdom of the great. King of kings.

We have baptized more than 100
persons in Aalborg Conference in the
course of three months, and there have
been more than that baptized in Ven-
syssel in the same time. Six weeks
ago, I was informed, through brother
Weiby, the President, that there were
about 80 baptized there.

The general condition of the churches
here is very healthy. The spirit of
gathering is prevalent in this country.
There are even many not belonging to
the Church who strongly believe in the
gathering of the last days. Many of
those baptized lately are of the more
respectable classes ; but, above all, they
are humble, strong in faith, and firm in
their resolutions.

A good number of the Saints here

Digitized by

THIBTT-FIB8T ANNUAL CONFEBENCE.

371

Brigham Young, President of the
Perpetual Emigrating Fund to gather
the poor ;

fleber O. Kimball, Daniel H. Wells ;
and Edward Hunter, his assistants and
agents for said fund :

George A. Smith, Historian andgene-
ral Church Recorder; and Wilford Wood-
ruff, his assistant.

The foregoing Quorums and authori-
ties were all voted for separately, and^
each and all were unanimously sus-
tained by the Conference.

Elder John Taylor made some perti-
nent remarks on the principle of union
among the Latter-day Saints. He said
there was a little difference between the
Church ef Jesus Christ in its actions
and the democrats of this nation the
Saints are united, but they are divided
against themselves. Where all the
people are seeking to do right, that
makes one of the Dest governments in
the world. He gave it as his opinion
that there is no people under the hea-
vens eapable of governing themselves,
and no man is able to govern the human
family aright without the wisdom that
comes from God. He recommended
secret prayer, especially to the stubborn
and sen-willed ; said that by that means'
they would gain the favour of the
Almighty, and be able to act as sons of
the Most High. He thought that the
following poetic sentiment would apply
to many who were fond of talking about
their dignity and their rights : —

u Were half our time in reasoning spent —
To beavo* in supplication sent,
Our clfeerful songs would oftener be*
On what the Lord has done lor me."

* Patriarch Isaac Morleymadea fewre-
marks expressive of the rejoicing be felt
in the blessings of the everlasting Gospel.
It had been'saving to him, both tem-
porally and spiritually. His prayer
was that the blessings of the everlasting
hills might come down upon 1 the in-
habitants of these valleys, and that we
might enjoy all the blessings of the
heavens and of the earth.

Elder George A. Smith arose and
said that he designed to priach from
the text " Sectarian religion; sectarian
God, and the democracy of our country.*'
He showed the folly of men worshipping
a God without body, parts, or passions ;
for sach a being, if being he might be
called, must be destitute of principles

and power. He argued that the God
worshipped by sectarians could not be
the being that wrestled with Jacob,
that conversed with Moses, and wrote
with his finger upon tables of stone.
In sneaking of democracy, he gra-
phically described the present condition
of the Government of our nation. He
remarked that Joseph Smith had pro-
phesied, when the Saints were driven
Ixom Jackson County, that if the Go-
vernment did not redress our wrongs,
they should have mob upon mob, until
mob power, and that alone, should
govern the whole land:

He bore testimony to the truth of the
work of the Lord in which he was
engaged, and said if the Latter-day
Saints would listen to President Young's
instructions as they ought to do, they
would soon be the wealthiest people
upon the face of the earth.

Choir sang — 4 *The standard of Zion."
Patriarch Morley pronounced the
benediction.

In the evening, the Bishops and High
Priests met in the Thirteenth Ward
Assembly Booms. Reports were re*
ceived from most of the Bishops in the .
Territory relative to Tithing, the con-
dition of their Wards, and the prepara-
tions they were making for sending
teams east to gather the poor ; after
which, President B. Young delivered a
discourse that was full of important
instructions to Bishops, High Priests,
and to all true Saints.

Sunday Morning, April 7.

The Conference was called to order
at ten o'clock.

Choir sang^-" Come, all ye Saints
who dwell on earth,"

George A. Smith offered prayer.
Choir sang—" 111 praise my Maker
while I've breath."

Elder Lorenzo Snow addressed the
audience on the subject of the blessings
his people enjoy; and the great pri-
vilege they have of meeting together in
a Conferepce capacity to see and learn
ljow much improvement each other have
made. He said it was impossible to
point to the day, the hour, or the
moment that a child grows ; but yet it
il visible that the child is increasing in
stature; and it is just so with this

Digitized by

372

THIETY-PIEST ANNUAL CONFERENCE

people — they grow imperceptibly. We
would all, doubtless, like to he wise and
happy ; but we do not know how to
become so : but the Gospel is giving us
power to attain to these things. It
shows us how to be happy and good.
When a man receives wisdom and
intelligence from God, the Spirit of
Truth prompts him to communicate it
to others ; and when he has learned to
be happy, it prompts him to teach
others to be happy. A man may have
power to make the thunders roll and
the lightning flash, but he asked the
congregation what that had to do with
making a man happy. Men may be
very good, and yet not be half so useful
as they might be, if they were more
wise. He asked how we know that the
brethren who preside over us are men
of God, and that their designs are pure
and holy, and answered, Because the
Deity is within us — because the Holy
Spirit, given through obedience to the
Gospel, reveals these things to us ; and
every man and womap, who are in the
line of their duty, live in the light of
revelation continually.

President Heber 0. Kimball dis-
coursed on the progress of the human
mind in knowledge, and the necessity of
advancing in the understanding of the

Srinciples of truth. Said it was the
uty of tl\e Saints to appreciate their
gifts and blessings more than they do,
and they should appreciate and honour
the Giver more than the gift. This

Srinciple he illustrated by alluding to
esus oeing given by his Father to die
for the world, and asked if he should
appreciate the Son or the Father the
most. He reasoned on the subject of
obedience, and said he belonged to that
tree of life of which the Eternal Father
was the head — that he was a son and
heir of God, and that he knew he should
come off victoriously, if he did not do
anything worse or more sinful than
lie had done.

He wished the people to understand
that, if a son turned away from his
father who was walking in the path of
his duty, he turns away from God.
He delighted in speaking facts in
figures, for by that means he could the
more easily get the people to under-
stand the mmd and will of our Hea-
venly Father. He commanded the
people to make honourable their elec-

tion and their endowments. Spoke in
strong terms against adultery and las-
civiousnes8, pointing out the punish-
ment of the transgressor. He made
some excellent remarks on family go-
vernment, the importance of union,
love, kindness, and mutual affection
in every household of the Latter-day
Saints. Prophesied that the First Pre-
sidency and the Twelve will be together
in Jackson County, in the flesh, and
will help to lay off the inheritance of the
Saints.

He then made some remarks on the
subject of " home manufactures," and
the success that had attended his exer-
tions to manufacture linseed oil, by
which, he was happy to say, the im-
portation of the foreign adulterated
article will be rendered unprofitable, as
we could now make a better article at
home and sell it at five dollars per
gallon.

President Brigham Young made a
few remarks upon the same subject.

Choir sang — " Come, O thou King of
Kngs."

Dismissed by Elder Levi W. Hancock.

The improved state of the weather
this morning caused a vast concourse
of people to assemble on the Temple
Block, and at the time of meeting there
were over 1,000 persons who could not
get into the Tabernacle ; on seeing
which, the President appointed Elders
Orson Hyde and John Taylor to go and
preach to the people in the open air.

Afternoon. — Choir sang — " Before
Jehovah's awful throne."

Prayer was offered by Elder W. W. '
Phelps.

Choir sang — "Arise, my soul, arise."

The sacrament was administered by
Bishops Hunter, Hardy, Stewart, Kesler,
and Raleigh, and Counsellor Earl.

President Brigham Young delivered
an interesting and instructive discourse,
addressed to the Bishops and Presidents
from a distance, and also to all who ^
call themselves Saints. He spoke of
the great blessings that we enjoy m
having the ability to build ourselves
houses and make ourselves coinfortaw*
in this life ; of being able to P^]"* \
everything that we need — the wn ®!|>
the apple, the peach, the apricot, wr
silk, the cotton, and all the necessary
comforts for this mortal life. He

Digitized by

COBBBSPONDKNCE.

381

are learning the English language
pretty fast, and some of the Elders
understand it perfectly well.

The news from home causes our
hearts to rejoice to see that peace,
prosperity, and goodwill predominate
through the length and breadth of the
"Mormon" empire. The Lord seems
to favour and comfort Zion and her
sacred cause, both at home and abroad.

I learn from the papers that the di-
vided States are rushing rapidly to the
field of battle and desolation. The day of
recompense and revenge from the Lord
of Hosts seems to be drawing near, and
the sentence to have passed in the court
above ; and no intercessor can go
between and avert the judgment of the
Almighty, when his hand is stretched
forth to avenge the blood of his anointed
ones. It seems to me that calamities
and a multiplicity of woes are coming
upon that nation like the roaring sea
when it inundates towns, landscapes,
and spreads fear, desolation, and death.
The people seem to be filled with sorrow
and fear, mingled with wrath and indig-
nation ; and on whom shall they rely,
that it may turn about for good?
" Upon the God of our fathers," says
Buchanan. But no ! They have
forsaken Him long ago, and rejected
his plans and offers, — dug their own
dark graves, and chosen death instead of
life. Has their sun set, to rise no
more ? It requires prophetic vision to

decide in that ! Methinks every nation,
kindred, or people who lift up their
hand or voices against the Lord's
anointed shall nerish, and wither, and
see sorrow ; and if there is any salvation
or restitution at all for them, they will
gain it through no other channel than
through those to whom the keys of the
Priesthood and holy Apostleship are
committed in this last dispensation.

I realise the hand of the Lord in the
promotion of his purposes upon the
earth. His angels seem to protect his
servants, and do their part in this great
work. The influence and foothold
which 14 Mormonism" has gained in these
northern realms, in the course of a
few years, ishighlyastonishing to every
thinking mind. When it commence*
here, it was almost impossible for an
Elder to enter even in the humblest
cottage ; and if he mentioned a word of
this new religion, abuses of the most
brutal kind were committed, and the
authorities would give us no protection,
although the constitution and laws

guaranteed full liberty. It is super-
uous to state how it is now : you knew
it long ago. But I may say, briefly,
that our influence is felt to a wonderful
extent. The Devil is, of course, mad
enough, but can do nothing with the
Danes now. His power is weak and
getting limited.

Very respectfully,

A. CHRI8TEN8EN.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

AMERICAN.

The news brought from America by the
Great Eastern is of a character little cal-
culated to allay the fears of those who dread
civil war. A large Federal army (13,000
men) have marched into Virginia, taking
possession of Alexandria and compelling the
secessionists to retire. Another division of
the army has seized the Arlington heights,
thus cutting off the Harper's Ferry seces-
sionists from communication with Richmond.
The Federal Government have seized the
accumulated despatches of the last twelve
months in every telegraph office through-
out the Free States. The Postmaster-
General has completed the isolation of
the seceded States by forbidding the
transmission of all mail matter, either
coastwise, by river, or by land route,
to each and every one of the seceded
States. Maryland, Delaware, Kentucky,

Missouri, and Tennessee are exempt from
this prescription.

We learn from Charleston that there are,
beyond doubt, 9,500 secession troops between
Point of Rocks and Williamsport, being the
outposts of the force at Harper's Ferry.
These are composed of 7,000 Virginians,
and the rest are companies from Alabama,
Mississippi, Georgia, and the Carolinas,
including 300 Cherokee Indians from Notth
Carolina, in full war costume, with toma-
hawks and scalping-knives. Great fears
are entertained in the Cumberland val-
ley of a foray upon the cattle in that
locality.

The Charleston blockade has at length
been raised.

Missouri has virtually declared for the
Union.

The Governor of Kentucky warned the
Federal and the Confederate troops against

Digitized by CjOOg IC

VARIETIES.

making any movement on, Kentucky soil,
dedarmg strict neutrality, v 1

More riots had taken place at St. John's,
N.F. 1 The troops fired upon tHe, mob, kill-
ing two.

The last accounts from St Domingo are
far from confirming the statement in the
royal decree published •' in the . Madrid
Gazette about the unanintous. desire of the
population of the island • to be incorporated
with. Spain. .Hevolt £ad brpken out at
Samana, and- the troops were obliged to
disperse the revolted. Cabral, who com-
manded the Dominican army, and who had
returned to Hayti, had reappeared on the
frontier and raised the* Republican flag, on
which were inscribed the words-^' God, our
country, and liberty/' It would, appear, that
neither the majority ot the country nor of the
army are favourable to annexation to Spain ;
and the revolt exists in several points of the
island. .

GENERAL. .

A letter from Madrid states that Santan a,
by a long course of misgovernraent and pil-
age, has reduced the country to a. state of
ruin and depopulation, almost as pitiable as
the wretched remnants of the Spanish emis-
saries who rose against their tyrarits.
There is a scarcity of provisions. The
natives show their hospitality by refusing to
to sell food or cattle to their •* deliverers,"
save at famine prices. There is no accom-
modation for the troops. The officers com-
plain that they are worse off than in an
enemy's country, and the soldiers are with
difficulty restrained from rising in open
revolt at being deprived of the perquisites
which they obtained virtually from the
slavemasters, and by being employed in the
cigar manufactories at the Havana.

M. di San Mantino has commenced his
administration in Naples by several severe
measures against the Mazzinians, among
whom numerous arrests have been made.
A reorganization of the National Guard is
expected.

The Pontifical Government has entered
into negotiations with the Powers for the
preservation of the Papal Territory. Secret
orders have been given for the organization
of reactionary committees in the Pontifical
provinces which have been annexed to Sar-
dinia.

The Czas of June 5 says—" The Pope
» has sent an autograph letter to the Emperor
of Russia* rejecting his request to issue a
.Papal Bull against the manifestation of the
Poles, and threatening the Emperor with
the judgment of God on account of his per-
secution of the Christian Church, and his
slaughter of unarmed people."

Constantinople advices to the 30th May
assert that, on the sitting of the Interna-
tional Conference on the 29th instant, it
was resolved to establish in the Lebanon a
Christian Government, the chief of which
should be on the religion of the majority of
the inhabitants, and be directly dependent
on the Porte, and not on the Pasha of
Beyrout.

Ragusa advices report that Dervish
Pasha, with Turkish troops under his com-
mand, had been violently attacked by an
overwhelming body of insurgents. The
result was unknown.

According to advices received from Mo-
rocco, Muley Soliman had been recognized
as Emperor by several tribes, and was
encamped ahout twenty-five miles from
Fez, with rather a considerable force. He
is said to be in such a position as to be able
to assume the offensive, and to make a
serious war against his brother, the Emperor,
resulting in a division of the empire of
Morocco.

A telegram from Tripoli, dated May 29,
states that the first section of the Malta and
Alexandria cable, between Malta, Tripoli,
and Benghazi, has been successfully laid.

According to an official report, the late
disastrous fire at Glaris consumed 616
dwelling houses and dependencies, the
damage being greater than was supposed^—
not less than 15,000,000f.

VARIETIES.

A Flea under a Microscope. — When a flea is made to appear as large as an elephant,
we can see all the wonderful parts of its formation, and are astonished to find that it has
a coat of armour much more complete than ever warrior wore, and composed of strong
polished plates fitted over each other, each plate covered like a tortoise shell, and where
they meet hundreds of strong quills project, like those on the back of the porcupine or
hedgehog. There are the arched neck, the bright eyes, the transparent cases, the piercers
to puncture the skin, a sucker to draw away the blood, six long-jointed legs, four of
which are folded on the breast, all ready, at any moment, to be thrown out with tremens
dous force for that jump which bothers one when one wants to catch him, and at thorgnd
of each leg hooked claws, to enable him to cling to whatever he alights upon. A floa can
jimp a hundred times his own length, and he can draw a load two hundred times his own
weight.

Digitized by

VABHTIES.

breath. The very pleasurable feeUnre Ihich JLjSSSJ *SSf ^ their latest
been recorded by numbers who have been recoverS£?I^ ' g ^ hari 6W h "«
from cold we shonw suppose te be onTofTe' worJ forni fa Sl^ ^
could approach ; but, instead of the frostv horrors w* 3,1 ,i ■ ■ i k, ?8T, of terrors
rocked, « last, mto a soothtog slumber ^

Explorers " the sleepy comfort of freezing^; ^TmTthin7likVihf 4retic
romance. I had evidence, now, to the conlrafv Two of nnr T p . embdJ M' i ment of'
begging permission to sleep: ' they were not cold tb* JS£ ^a"* 1 . men a,me ,0 »e.
a little 5 sleep was all they wanted.'"* F^mttuaS if thThJt DOt now"
init, they would never nave waked. Th?^m wtSfot i^H^? ^ Wed L to
avoM it; the descent to the grave was easy wdgT^eful aufcJin m effort to
to keep the steep and toilsome road which ted ba<*?o hfe.' Tesolab ™ »¥ required

Necessity op Pons Air.— "Whatever makes the air immirB k„ m ^ • .
It is the air we breathe which purines the Mood I AnT ^??ht»!r * e M<?od V^panr.
clothingis dirty, itis impossible to wash XT Sfean tTtl" " Se V"* our '
impure, it u, impossible to extract impurities Lm U^Mood ' Whit tofi™}*^ *
more prominent things which render the air impure? Tis ftetature of IT'? '
become impure. Running water purifies itself Air in ™!;Jr j or , stia water to -

purifiers. P Thus it is th/the air o P f a" X^m, ttSTS5SffiS*'ff
that close rooms bnng consumption to countless thousands fc^T .n y " V>«*Mus ,
so constructed as to have a constant draughTof *E£L, ft™,* B V^ 5 ? ould **
ordinary size renders a hogshead of air unfit to breTtiL ™T™ ^ A manof
purifying qualities every hour. Hence sloug h dS^SL £ ^T^t^ blood - ^
sitting for a very short time in a crowded venTclef or uSSk^i^Z^S^ ^ or
corrupting to the blood. Close bedrooms make the ^ZtfmXX? "

Heat upon Meat.— Professor Johnston, in his "Chemistrv rf(w,». t ,.
a .well-cooked piece of meat should be full if Its own JuS^n.tur^S' " "»» ?"*
therefore, it should be exposed to a quick fire, that Cliternai^urf^'. Hi.""^
contract at once, and' the albumen to coagulate before tneMce h«^ ?7 maie 10
from within. The same observations appfyto boning When ?pWe $ W 10 *****
is plunged into boUing water, the outers/are contracts, KCS,?"?
surface coagulates, and the internal juice is .prevented either frora uSJ ffltotS «
ened by the admission of water amonir it. When cut un tW^v™,. g Muted or weak-
gravy, and is rich in flavour. Hence? a ^^^^'1°^^^
over a quick fire, that the natural juices may be retained On tL 9P**ty. «nd
meat be done over a slow fire.it, pores rJain oleT *e bSJtSJ^L^
wrthin as it has dried within the surface, and the flesh pinei Td wSr! w/° m
unsavoury. Or if it be put in cold and tepid water, whrch is »ft£^. 17' h V d '-
bofl, much of the albumen is extracted before it ^nUtes thenZ^i S . b . rou & ht «° »
most part flow out, and the meat served is nearh^tMtetes Hm^w^ lUCeS for *> e '
boiled meat, it should at once be put into water alrkTbrowht to W
beef tea, mutton broth, and othe/beef soups, tlie flKS^^^J** * ™to
this afterwards very slowly wanned, and finally boiled. P ln 0014 wat «r, and

D augers or' a Thunderstorm. — -Although an insulatin* enveln™. t . .
the danger with which one is threatened, fas is proved bya Kibrf. 7

W "i!Sf rTed fr0m *» ^ <*W^S V tb/sUk vestoente wiSwhil L^'Vl'
nevertheless we cannot admit thrift causl, It altogether to disap~ar lAX^f WM ^
is not always respected by lightning, as is provedbv several7«\nt?£ J , ?1ms its elf
reduced to powdeVby it, Ld%venlhnply Kd byl^eS&f g '^f broken ««
lUsnres. iTwould be better to avoid hi^g about one^rtXc obW, W1 ? "t ^j^t
be struck in the time of a storm. The best thmg " 45«»£t tti?",,*^ «•
keep ourselves in the middle of a room. The le£ witiurt wZL^fi enif&1 ">^ to
^ are we exposed. The surest plan, perhaps, would 1 bfto haTfa h^m ' t gr ° UDd
by silk eordsm the centre of a large rortn. However eren ™"* Vwr laamo<ik . suspended
happen flu*, if the lightning doesTot find a S^ZtaV^SJSS^S^ l™*?
may dart from one point upon the pint diametrically opposed land s . ch ? mb ». it

the person placed in the middle of he room. l^erTK^W^ W ,ts
may mcrease the danger of being struck by Ughtning, eiK, SlSl anu ? al »
pomt a greater quantity of conducting matter, "or by producm^ L^Lrfei.- PTen
aseendmg column of vapour, the effect of which is to conduct m nr^«n~ Z^S ** «
toward, the place itself whence it emanates. Kn^X&^K *Z*S*

Digitized by V3^©gie

384

POETBY. — MARRIAGES. — DEATH.— ADDRESSES.

current of moist air that may be attributed the fact, observed very generally, that grana-
ries filled with grain and forage are more frequently struck by lightning than other
buildings. It happens sometimes that a single person is struck in the midst of a numerous
group ; and, inversely, that a single person is spared, which is evidently due to the cir-
cumstance that there are individuals who are naturally better conductors of electricity
than others. When lightning falls upon even imperfect lightning-conductors, it never
occasions so much damage as when there are no lightning-conductors. What would be
preferable in all cases would be to make it a rule to cover the ridges of the roofs with
sheets of tinned iron, taking care to make them communicate well with each other and
with the waterspouts, and taking the precaution of plunging these latter a little deeply
into the ground, so as to establish between them and the moist earth, or the water situated
in the neighbourhood, a good metallic communication.

POETRY.

YE SAINTS, REJOICE.

Ye Saints, rejoioe ; the day is nigh
When God, who dwells In realms on high,
Will pour his indignation forth,
And smite the nations in his wrath.

Long, long ths Sainta have been oppressed ;
But soon their wrongs will be redressed ;
Jehovah lores his faithful Saints,
And listens to their just complaints.

On Zion's mount the faithful sing
Sublimest strains to Christ their King,
And live in bonds of heavenly love,
Blest with the unction from above.

Progressing still, We do rejoice,
Since we have made the Lord our choice :
His wondrous love and care we claim,
Through faith in our Redeemer's name.

Oh would, dear Saints, we could impark
These joys to every honest heart !
Our kindred, unto us so dear,
Would soon the laws of God revere.

Padding ton.

But unto them a mystery still
Appears the Great Jehovah's will,—
Too firmly by tradition bound
To comprehend the joyful sound.

But we, who know the Lord's design,
Win pray He may their hearts incline
To hearken, and obedience yield
To glorious laws from heaven revealed.

To turn with contrite spirits back,
And walk in virtue's holy track,
To Jesus' fold adopted in,
That they eternal life may win.
And with him gloriously reign,
When he deseends to earth again,
A thousand years in peace and joy,
When Satan can no more annoy.

Then let us still God's laws obey,
And haste from Babylon away
To Zion's land, where virtue reigns,
And right, not might, the vkfry gains.

Ellen Harper.

Married— In Glasgow, Scotland, December 28, i860, by D. M. Stuart, Elder James Bullock and Maigsiet
Bailey, both of the Glasgow Conference. In G. S. L. City, on April 13, 1861, by Bishop J. M. WeoUey, Mr.
Henry Sadler and Miss Caroline Elisa Vincent, both of this city* Also, at the same time and place, Mr. Joseph
Bodell and Miss Mary Johnson, both of this city.

Died— In G. S. L. City, Hth April, of general debility, Margary Duncan Mather, aged 64 years, formerly of
Forfarshire, Scotland.

Addksssjcs.— David Matheson, fil, Park-street, Luton, Bedfordshire.

G. G. Bywater, 6, Great Frederick-street, Cardiff, Wales.

Robert Hod£££' } BMt ^ d Prince-s-street, St Philips, Bristol.

CONTENTS.

Thirty-first Annual Conference 869

History of Joseph Smith 374

EdjtoriaL — Out-door Preaching.-- Abstract of

News from the Conferences 876

Correspondence.— England : Letters from Elders
Blackburn, Cliff, and J. C. Rich.— Scotland :
Letter from Elder Stuart— France: Letter from

Elder Bertrand.— Scandinavian Mission : Let-
ter from Elder Christen *en. 3**

Summary of News and Passing Events JJJ

Varieties. «• *»

Poetry.— Ye Saints, Rejoice ...» ~ - J*{

Marriages.— Death ~ fj*

Addresses ..•

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 41, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY 8AINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET. CROSS 8TRBET,
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS,

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' *V\

*• V c.

MILLENNIAL STAB.

I nmfm rhaU torn* men to tk* «ndf •/ IAf earth ; fb/r tht Lord hath a
pUadwitAaajUski U will givt than that art wicked to tU word,

•if with tA« nations : k$%
the Lord. M —iK*MMikB.

Bo. 25,. VOL XXTIL

Saturday, June 22, 1861.

Price One Fenny.

"GLORY TO GOB IN THE HIGHEST, AND OK EARTH PEACE,
GOODWILL TOWARD HEN."

BT ELDBB WILLIAM PULLER.

Such was the 'song sung by the
heavenly host si the advent of the
Messiah. Their ioy was beyond earthly
measure. The neavens echoed their
vqpieipgaj - the ptains . heard their
sounds; the shepherds knew their
voices ; an era haa dawned upon time
which events never should desjtroy. As
at the dawn of creation the moraine
stars sang together; and the sons of God
shouted for joy* so at the dawn- of re-
demption' the angeKc amies sent forth
their sublime prophetic song of peace.

Shepherds were not the only ones
warned of the great occurrence.. A star
appeared in the east, that led wise men to
Jerusalem to search for that King then
born; Herod, the scribes, and the chief
priests seemed interested; and by ap-
pearance one might have judged that the
long-looked-for deliverance had arrived.

Bat how soon were matters changed !
Many hearts were saddened, and many
a dark event followed, which seemed to
give the lie to that song ; so much s,o,
that a ene-si^ed spectator may have
concluded that . the 1 nian~chi(d brought
confusion instoadoPpeace, terror instead
of joy, and consternation instead of hap-
piness.

Judge, by the events recorded.whether
peace seemed to accompany his birth.
A snort time had passed when his

reputed father and his mother were
compelled to flee for hith into Egypt,
and two years had not expiree! ere
Herod, an account of him, sent to slay aU
the male babes in Bethlehem. Question
the parents, when the soldier tore away
the suckling babe from its mother's
breast, to slay it with the sword, or
when they spilled the blood of a hopeful
child, if they believed .in* that song.
When but twelve years old, Jesus went
to the customary feast; and instead of his
accompanying his parents as a dutiful
child, they were compelled to return a
day*8 journey in sorowfnl anxiety to
search for him ; and not till three days
had thus passed away did they find him.
What parents would be moved with
peace to receive such an answer from
their child as he gave them P

His own words subsequently were —
44 Suppose ye that I am come to give

Eeace on the earth P I tell you, nay ;
ut rather division ;*> an^many circum-
stances steaitly belied, the angels* song ;
yet, with all these portentous events,
he was the bearer of peace and goodwill
to all men. ■

Travel with him in his career, and see
when they were about to cast him from
the brow of the hill, or when the scribes
and Pharisees were tormented to catch
him, if they were impressed that he

Digitized by

386

GLOBT TO GOD IN THR HIGHEST," ETC,

was the harbinger of peace. No. Some
said he wan a blasphemer, others that
he had a devil and was mad ; and
finally, when his followers looked for
compensation for their Fufferings, the
voice of the enemy, •* Crucify him !"
was effective. Thirty-three years after
the heavens had rung with joy, nature
had to groan, disciples weep, and black-
ness clothe creation ; for between earth
and heaven hung the Messiah, the
Prince of Peace, the great Red emer.
" Truly this was the Son of God." The
world knew him not, but his disciples
knew him, and could testify of what they
had seen and heard, telling the people
that the kingdom of heaven was at hand.

Eighteen centuries passed away,
and men again had their synagogues,
delighted in their scribes, with learned
commentators, when God designed that
darkness should no longer reign pre-
dominant. He spake ; angels in hea-
ven and just men on earth rejoiced ; for
a song sung so long since was to be
fu'fiHed, even "peace on earth, good-
will toward men."

In the year 1820 a heavenly visitor
appeared to Joseph Smith, declaring
that the conflicting opinions of men
were erroneous, and that God designed •
to make him an instrument to teach
correct laws and build up a kingdom on
the earth, in which God should be
King and Lawgiver. What were then
the rejoicings of angels, archangels,
seraphim, and all around the throne of
our Father, knowing that a day had
dawned when the will of God should
be done on earth as it is in heaven P

In 1830 a church and kingdom was
organized. Then how devils howled,
wicked men fought, scribes, editors,

priests, rulers, and kings endeavoured to
destroy the man-child, and have never
ceased trying to this day to make the
prophecies of God, thn u^hrhis ancient
and modern Prophets, to fail. **Mor-
monism" (so called) in these latter
times is to bring peace on earth, and
will not be overcome like the mission
in the meridian of time, but shall stand
till the knowledge of God shall cover
the face of the who'e creation.

Many will not believe its peaceful
message. Some events, as in the time
of Christ, apparently belie it. The
persecutions oi our brethren, the driv-
ings from Jackson County, Kirtland,
Davies Coun'y, Carroll County. Haun's
Mill, &c.,— the occasional wicked exul-
tations at seeing the blood of God's
Saints and anointed one spilled, and in
the towns or streets when the glad
tidings of joy were being proclaimed,
the mob with nireling hypocrites stoning
and driving, — these are not forcible
presentiments of peace! Yet we de-
finitely and authoritatively assert that
this work bringeth peace to all be-
lievers. Though fathers, mothers, chil-
dren, or relatives mny be disturbed
when opposed to the same, we say
that if they receive it, like the dis-
ciples of old, they shall testify of the
work of God, and, in the face of all
troubles or trt nblesome times, they
shall have " thi.t peace which the world
can neither give nor take away," and
shall know the end of " Morrnonism"
to be " peace on earth, goodwill toward
men for by its laws it will bring
about the tiine that men will be pre-
pared to receive Christ and God, when

" Every man in eve y place

Will meet a brother au4 a Mend."

MINUTES OP A GENERAL CONFERENCE

HELD IN PRKSTON, MAY 5, 1£61.

Morning meeting was opened by the
congregation singing — "The morning
" reaks, the shadows flee." Prayer by
lder John Kay.

Sacrament was then admininistered ;
after which,

Elder Thomas Liez wss called upon
to represent the Present Conference.
He reported it as being in good condi-

tion. The Priesthood were united, and
the Saints generally enjoying good
spirits. Several had been baptized, and
prospects were promising.

President George Q. Cannon said—
" It is with peculiar feelings I walk tha
streets of Preston, which were once
trod by brothers Heber and Orson, and
the brethren who were with them,

Digitized by

nnrxrTE8 of a genebal confrbenck.

387

and afterwards hy brother Brigham
Yf iing and others, when they first
brought the Gorpel to this ccuntry ;
•race which time great changes have
taken place, but God has not changed
e'thcr in spirit or in power. Previous
to proposing the authorities for you to
sustain, we want to impress upon the
minds of the Saints the necessity of
voting honestly and sacredly. Some
think it on f y a matter of form, and that
it is immaterial whether they hold up
their hands or not. Such should not be.
We should be care r ul and know that we
have no hard feelings towards those for
whom we are about to vote, as the
holding up of the right hand to heaven
is the most holy form of vote that can
be given."

He then moved— -1st, that we sustain
Brigham Young as Prophet. Seer, and
Bevelator, and President of the Church
of Jej-us Christ throughout all the
world, with Heber C. Kimball and
Daniel H. Wells as his Counsellors;
2nd, that we sustain the Twelve Apos-
tles, with Orson Hyde as their President ;
3rd, that we sustain all the authorities
as at present organized in Zion ; 4th,
that we sustain Amasa M. Lyman,
Charles C. Rich, and Gwge Q.
Cannon as the Prendency of the Euro-
pean Mission ; 5th, "(hat we sustain
Elder Jobn Kay as District President
of the Manchester % Liverpool, and
Preston Confi-rene^s ; 6th, that we
su*ta'n Elder Tho» j,as Liez aa President
of the Preston Co nference : all of which
were duly seconr" j e d and carried unani-
mously.

.He then eont jnued— " Before leaving
Liverpool this • morning, the mail arrived,
bring rig us papers and letters from
America, fro m which we learn that the
States are h , the utmost confusion, war
being the * ^hief topic. Thousands are
being mar Called for the field, and the
greatest excitement prevails. The
Southerr t States are against the North -
an d the Northern against the
8oothe rDm Over twenty-eight years
a £° *' ae people of those States were
*° w * -hat God had revealed to Joseph
* ne Prophet precisely what is now tak-
JJJ* place, commencing with the rebellion
J" South Carolina. This solemn warn-
Y jg they ridicuh d and rejected. The
' Jainta in that land have suffered many

fritter trials from the hands of their

enemies; lut the sufferings they
have endured will sink into insignifi-
cance when compared with those which
their enemies will em'ure. In their
perpecution of the Sa'nts they raised up
a demon in their own midst that th*y
could not quiet again nor bury. They will
now suffer from its effects among them-
selves. Amid the tumults and distress
which are afflicting the United States,
and are at the threshold of the doors cf
the other nations, I have no concern for
the Saints in Zion— they are in perfect
security ; nor the emigrating Saints, if
they are faithful, although their path
may appear to be beset Ly difficulties :
neither have I any anxiety for myself
and the missionary brethren, for we are
in the place God would have us to be; but
I cannot say that I have the same feel-
ings of security in relation to all the
Saints who are in this country. I wish
to have the same feelings respecting
them that I have for the other classes
of their brethren and sisters I have
named. When they have lived their
religion, and left no means untried of
keeping the commandments of the
Lord, these feelings can be entertained.
But we cannot feel that there is that
security for those who have had the
privilege of gathering to Zion, lut have
not done so. They have not the same
claim upon the protecting care of our
heavenly Father as those who have
lived their religion and been ever wil-
ling to punctually obey his command-
ments. It should be the constant effort
of the Saints to be in the position tbat
the Lord desires them to occupy ; then,
whatever may happen, they have claim
upon his mercy, and he will protect
them. Factories may be locked up,
employment may be difficult to obtain,
and famine and pestilence and calami-
ties may be abroad in the midst of the
land; but if you have neglected no
opportunity of doing your duty, and
have been faithful to your religion,
God's cart and deliverance will be ex-
tended to you, if you seek it in faith.

I would urge you to gather out^of
these lands, for the events now transpir-
ing in the States are only the beginning
of war and famine and bloodshed
which will overtake this country and
all others. May God bless you with
his Holy Spirit, in the name of Jesus
Christ. Amen." C nnn\o

Digitized by VjOOQ 1C

388

KINUTBS OF A aHISfeAL CONFBBBNOB.

Aftbrnoon Meeting.

The meeting opened by the congre-
gation singing — " How beauteous are
their feet." Prayer by Elder Thomas
Lies.

President Amasa Lyman said — " I
feel gratified, after being in this country
for some lapse of time, in visiting
Preston ; and in coming to you we have
not merely conao as a gratification, but
to speak the truth, that good might be
done. We have not come to preach,
but to speak to you unbound and in the
frecdon and spirit of truth. When
men preach, they are bound to certain
formula, which are not so varied as
speaking otherwise will admit.

One thing I wish to impress upon
your minds is that you do not fully
understand the Gospel. This may ap-
pear strange, but you do not. It is
not possible you should, from the ob-
vious fact, that as a whole it is untold.
There is but one Gospel sermon, be-
ginning with man's creation, and
continuing while there is truth to learn.
Have you received that which has been
given for your salvation to lead you
onward and upward in the principles of
eternal life. How many there are who,
in looking book to the time when they
became acquainted with the first prin-
ciples of the Gospel, at once perceive
that they believed then much which they
have not realised in their experience.
It was so with myself. I believed that
God would quickly consummate his
work and mace a speedy end of the
wicked. I did not then see the neces-
sity oftheOhurob pacing through such
an ordeal of suffering and trial as it had
been called to endure. Suoh were my
views; and why should I think the
people any different from myself P But
my experience has taught me more of
the go )dness, love, and mercy of God
towards all his creatures. We wish
you to comprehend the reason why so
little is understood of the Gospel. It is
because you have been believing and
listening to the instructions of men who
spoke in behalf of God, without receiv-
ingand applying the same to your lives.

There is a great difference between a
gift offered and accepting it. Suppose
a nobleman offered a grand banquet,
furnished with the choicest eatables,
and invited all to come and partake of

the rich viands prepared, and they
should only believe and listen, but not
accept the invitation, what benefit would
the starving receive P Hunger would
still prey on their vitals, and at last
they would famish and die. Ton must
receive the Gospel, and live so as to be-
come an embodiment of its principles.
Were I to walk with this people, should
I not see in the man of twenty years*
standing in the Ghuroh the dark passions
like the angry elements lashed into furyP
When I see such, I consider they have
not received the Gospel ; for by it the
passion is stayed, and anger departs,
and they drink at the fountain of truth ;
and when the soul is tossed like angry
billows, you can say as Christ did to
the tempestuous sea — " Peace, be still !"
and it is even so.

I want you to have correct ideas of
the principles of the Gospel, to believe
correctly, and keep your eye steadily on
the prise. In my experience, I nave
not found the world full of blessings;
but, with much labour and perseverance,
I have been enabled to accomplish what
has been required at my hands. The
same spirit of perseverence which urges
the miser in his love to obtain gold
would enable you to overcome every
difficulty and opposition which might
beset your path. Live your religion in
this land. You will find the advantage
of doing so when you get to Zion. Some
may say, We are poor and unable to

father. Be thankful that you are poor,
t may have operated in favour oc you
embracing the truth. We want you to
get rich feelings and feed on rich
thou ^hts. Feel that you are oif heaven's
nobility, and that your Father is rich.
Individuals like to talk of their rich re-
lations, althotfgh they themselves may
be poor. They will say—" This is my*
uncle," or, " That is my relation : he is
very rich, and owns a large estate.

Our Father is rich, and owns all the
earth and the fulness thereof; and we
are heirs to those blessings. We want
you old Saints to gather out and make
room for others who are waiting to fill
your places, and so give aid and strength
to the truth, and thereby bear a power-
ful testimony. " But," says one, " will
not the Saints continue to be driven?"
We answer, They will not : they are in
the place where God would have them*
Had the Saints remained in Missouri or

Digitized by

HI8T0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

389

Illiiiois, they could not have developed
their social policy and government ; and
here we see the wisdom of God in per-
mitting them to be pTriven by their
enemies; for in the present state of
America they Would have been expected
to take nart m the war just commenced,
and the Nauvoo Legion would have been
called out, and (like Uriah,) would have
found their place in the front of the
battle. We want you to fulfil all the
requirements of to-day — to pay your
Tithing, that we may have means to
assist the poor to gather. Those that
have no Tithing can pay none ; but those

that have, it is their duty to pay it.
We wish you, to donate to the Mission
Fund, for those that preach the Gospel
must eat. Brother Cannon informs me
that the expenses of the Mission have
been reduced one-half. May God bless
you, and may you be gathered with his
Saints, is my prayer in the 'name of
Jesus Christ." Amen.

Congregation sang — " The Spirit of
God like a lire is burning.*' Benediction
by President Cannon. Conference
adjourned.

Hbnbt Walters, Reporter.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from peg* 176.)

I made the following reply : —
"thb globe.

* The wise shall inherit the glory, but
shame shall be the promotion of fools.' —
[Solomon's Proverbs. ]

In the Daily Globe of March 14th, Mr.
Blair notices my * Views on the Powers
and Policy of our Government,' under the
head of 4 A new Advocate for a National
Bank,' with remarks and extracts. As it
does not bespeak a gentleman to tell all he
knows, nor indicate wisdom to murmur at
the oddities of men, I rarely reply to the
many remarks, sayings, and speculations
upon me and my plans, which seem to
* agitate the world ; for, like the showers upon
the verdure of the earth, they give me
vigour, beauty, and expansion. But when a
man occupies a station in his country which
ou^ht to be honoured as an exaltation,
which ought to be sustained with dignity,
and which should be filled by a friend and a
patriot of the nation, too wise to be cozened
by counterfeit principles, too great to blur
his fame with sophistry, too proud to stoop
to the vanity that is momentarily wasting
the virtue of the Government, and too good
to act the hypocrite to accumulate wealth
or to frustrate the ends and aims of justice,
I feel it my duty to bring forth the truth,
that the man and his measures, if right,
may be sustained ; and if wrong, may be
rebuked.

Without reference to men, parties, or pre-
cedents, the plan of banking suggested in
my 4 Views* is assumed upon the all-com-
manding, and, worthily considered, omni-
potent petition of the people ; and whether
as a 4 fiscal agent/ 4 great financier, prophet,
priest, or king,' I act wisely and righteously,
so as to answer their virtuous prayers,

without fear, favour, or partiality, and
produce union, give satisfaction to twenty
millions of freemen, rather than sport with
their holy supplications to boost a few
hungry, crafty, hypocritical demagogues
into office to gamble for the 4 loaves and
fishes,' no matter whether the game is
played 4 upon the tables of the living or the
coffins of the dead ;' or whether I raise the
honour and credit of the nation above the
little, picayune, cramped, narrow-minded
schemes of the dominant, undominant, and
would-be dominant parties, cliques, knots,
and factions ; or whether, like the venerable
fathers, I launch my new ship into the
great ocean of existence, and, like them,
luckily bring relief to the oppressed, is all
the same, so long as the people are honoured
as noble in then* patriotism and almighty
in their majesty. " Vox populi, vox Dei 1"
But it is extraneous, irrelevant, and kick;-
shawing to connect me or any part of my
4 Views on the Powers and Policy of the
Government* with Mr. Clay, Mr. "Webster,
Mr. Adam 8, Mr. Benton, Mr. Calhoun, Mr.
Mr. Van Buren, or any of their galvanic
cronies. What have they done to benefit the
people? The simple answer is, Nothing
tut draw money from the treasury. It is
entirely too late in the age of this republic
to clarify a Harry of the West, deity a
Daniel of the East, quidify a Quincy cf the
Whigs, or bigify n Benton of the Democrats,
leaving Mr. Calhoun and Mr. Van Buren
such fair samples of begu- democracy, that
he that runs may read. As the leautiful
excellence of /^'head^r may he a dtsider-
atvnt xaHf remedied by the 4 Excelsior' of
the bram,'9o a great man ov.ght to eihilit
his wisdom by his liberality to the unfortu-
nate among men as a token of philanthropy,
unbounded by party lines, unfettered by

390 HISTORY OF

chain-cable opinions, aud untrammelled by
cast-iron rules. Why slur the noble project
of letting the prisoners go free by petition P
It is sanctioned by ancient custom, it is the
counsel of God, and would be the only visible
testimony to the world that this realm is
what it professes to be — a Government of
liberty !

Heaven, earth, and hell know that the
penitentiaries of the several States are a
disgrace to the United Stages, and a stink in
the nostrils of the Almighty/ And the
county and city prison? are' still worse.
Unfortunate men, and in nine cases out of
ten innocent, are hurled into prison by cor-
rupted judgas, suborned witnesses, or ungodly
m?n who gamble themselves into Congress,
into legislatures, into courts, into churches
and into notice an I power, and then damn
their friends and fellow-beings to prison,
wretchedness, and ruin. And in ninety
and nine casesoutof a hundred, the prisoners
are treated meaner than dogs, half-starved
to put money into the pockets of speculators,
fed upon unwholesome provisions, whipped
without mercy, and even murdered wi'h
impunity. Look at the beastly conduct of

* * *" to the female iu Auburn State
Prison, N. Y. Remember, a man was
whipped to d?a*h, not long since, in Al on
Penitentiary, Illinois ; and it is not uncom-
mon to lacerate, with the * rope's end,' thirty
men at once in the parish prison of New
Orleans ; so that the voice of reason now
cries from the vast number of prisons and
the multiplying number of prisoners in rhe
Unite I States for relief; and the dea'h-like

roan * from cells, bastiles. castles, and cursed
oles throughout the whole earth, is ascend-
ing up into the ears of the Lord of Sabao h
to be avenged of such cruelty. And when

S»eat men in high places see a Governor
eynoldi shoot out his own brains with a
rifle, or gaze upon the haroc made by the
bursting of a 1 great gun' among the ' execu-
tives' of the nation, then know ye the hour
of his ju igmtnt is come !
The United States is the boasted land of

• liberty? where ' these truth* are held self-
evident' — 'hat 4 all men are created equal,
and endowsd by their Creator with certain
unalienable rights ; that among these are
life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness ;'
but at the same time, in the face of these
truths, slavery is tolerated by law, imprison-
ment is tolerated bv law, and murder is
tolerate! by law, and even fifteen thousand
free citizens are exiled from one State to
another, and the General Government has
m po*er (according to the opinions of Van
Baren ail BeVon,) to red 'ess the wrong.

O'i. Qieei Vicsona, anl ye Lord* anl
Comnvn of G*eat B i aiu, what think ye
of a Bepuolican Government ?— and ho* ib

JOSEPH SMITH.

you imagine your daughter will come out i»
her attempt at equal rights and reigning in
righteousness ? Pshaw ! (will they answer,)
your coffers are robbed with impunity ; your
citizens are mobbed, and driven like chaff
from the threshingfloor ; and the Govern-
ment, controlled by a set of money-gambling,
chicken-hearted, public-fed cowards, cannot
relressyou! Ask the reigning sovereigns
of Europe, Africa, and Asia, what they think
of the boasted republic in America, and
will they not laugh in the face of the whole
world, and taunt the United States by
exclaiming, Ah, ha ! ah, ha !

If there is any power in a Republican
Governm?nt, in a real case of necessity, yon
have failed to find just men to exercise it.
Party spirit cuts the cords of union, patron-
age veils the face of justice, and bribery
closes the lips of honour, and when the
wicked rule the people mourn.

Perhaps it may be said, " The Government
has been adequate to the calls of justice.'*
And I answer, If it has, it was because the
officers in authority considered their honour
and the rights of the people paramount
to patronage, pe'f, and popularity !

They were patriots who carried out the
poet's explanation of true greatness —

* A wit's a feather, and a chefs a rod ;

But an i.one*t man's the noblest work of God.'

It is said that * Out of the abundance of
the heart the mouth speaker h and when
men are called ' quadrupeds,' and ridicule
occupies the place of reason, and the virtue,
d gnity, honour, power, and majesty of the
people seem to be buried in rubbish, covered
with dust, mildewed with fog, tainted with
treachery, burlesqued by blackguards, or
humbled by debauchees, it is high time for
humanity to exclaim — * How has the gold
become dim, and where has the glory
departed V

The only suggestion worthy of commen-
dation relative to a national bank, in Mr.
Blair's remarks, is, that the mother bank
should be located at Nauvoo.

This is correct ; for Nauvoo, as a city;
collectiv ly or individually, cannot be
reproached with dishonour, crime, corrup-
tion, or bribery. Neither has a Swartout
or Price mingled his millions wi:h the
majesty of monarchs by walking out of the
un walled and ungated Nauvoo. The blood
of commodores and Congress men, shed by
the heaven -daring, hell -b-»got ten, earth-
d'ugracing practice of duelling, has never
stained 1 1 i vi • . io h so 1 or city of Nauvoo.
Nor does a slave raise his rusting fe'ters
ani chains, and exclaim — 4 liberty, where
are thy cham*?' Wisdom, freedom,
religion, and virtue, like ligh\ love, water,
and air, 'spread undivded and opera's
unjpent' in the beloved Nauvoo, while the

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SHITF.

891

gav worH and great politicals may
sing, and even the 'great Globe' itself may
chime the melodious sounds : —
Hall, Columbia, 'free and *qwxW

lo the Saints, the Mormons, bless ye!
Fett thy glory most severely.

When Missouri gave them Jests.
Hail. Columbia, 1 free and equal*'

Negro slaves; like common cattle,
Bought an 1 sold fur cash at auction ;

Prayers an 1 chains together rattle !
Hail, Columbia, 'free and equal'

* Libert?.' as patriots won it,
Crown'd the 1 head' of froeroeu's money;

Now the goddess sits upon it!
Hail. Columbia, 'free and equal,'

* Gold an 1 silver* is thy ' ten 'er ;*
Treasury notes (aside from Biddle)

Foreign loans and fallen sp endow !

As the * world is governed too much,' and
there is not a nation or dynasty, now
occupying the earth, which acknowledges
Almighty God as their lawgiver, and as
' crowns won by blood, by blood must be
maintained,' I go emphatically, virtuously,
and humanely for a theo-democracy, where
God and the people hold the power to
conduct the affairs of men in righteousness,
and where 1 berty, free trade, and sailor's
rights, an-1 the protection of lif.» and property
shall be maintained inviolate for the benefit
of all. To exalt mankind is nobly actinsr
the part of a God ; to degrade them is
meanly doing the drudgery of the Devil.
' Unitas, libertas, caritas, esto perpetua V

With the highest sentiments of regard
for all men, I am an advocate of unadulter-
ated freedom.

Joseph Smith."

Tuesdav, 16.— Rode oul to brother Green-
wood's, but he wa* nit returned. 5 p.m..
had a long talk with Chauncey L. Higbee
and Esq. Marr in front of my house, and
read to them Dr. A. B. William* and Mr.
If. G. Ea'on's affidavits before Esq. Wells.

TV Twelve Apostles met in council.

Wei iesday v 17. — Rode out with brothpr
H. C. Kimball and William Clayton to Ihe
steamboat landing. Remainder of the day
at home.

Thursday, 18. — 9 a.m., went into General
Council un f il ndon and introduced J. W.
CooKdge. D. S. Hollister, and added L.
"Wight's name.

While at dinner I made mention of the
report that Foster, Higbee, &c, were
paying some one's board at my table so as
toca'ch something against me : so, that if the
report is true, they may have something to
carry back. •

2 to 54 p.m. in council.

At 6 p.m., B. Young, W. Richards, J.
Tavlor, G. A. Smi h, H. C. Kimball, W.
Woodruff, of the Twelve Apostles; A.
Cutler, S. Bent, G. W. Harris, A. Johnsnn,
W. Marks, of (be City Council ; C. C. Rich,
A. Lyman, of the High Council ; W. W.

Phelps, N. K. Whiftier, John Smith. J. M.
Bernhisel, Joseph Fieldi lg, G. J. Adams,
E. Snow, R. Cahoon, J. W. Coolidge, John
Scott, J. D. Lee, Levi W. Hancock, S.
Williams. Jos. Young, J. P. Greene, J. D.
Parker, A. McRae, G. D. Watt, and W.
Clayton held a council and unanimously cut
off Robert D. Foster, Wilson Law, William
Law, and Jane Law, of Nauvoo, and
Howard Smith, of Scott County, Illinois
from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-
day Saints, for unchnvianl ke conduc* ; and
their names were published in the Times
and Seasons.

Friday, 19. — A company of alout 80
Saints arrived.

In the evening, rode to the upper steam*
boat landing.

Saturday, 20. — Emma started for St.
Louis to purchase goods.

I rode out with Dr. Bernhisel and my
boys Frederick and Alexander to the p. airie,
which is now verv g een.

Elders B. Young and W. Woodruff rode
to Lima and spent the night with Father
Morley.

Sunday, 21. — At home; rainy day. A
meeting at the Stand. Elder Eras' us Snow
preached " On the Law of Nature."

Elders Young and Woodruff attended a
Conference and preached to the Saints in
Lima, where 26 Elders volunteered to go
out preaching.

Elder Kimball attended a Conference at
Ramus.

Monday. 22. — All night lighning, thun-
dering, raining, with strong east wind
which continued through the day.

The river is very high ; all the mills in
the city stopped on account of the high
water.

This morning a man, wl had put up at
my house, told me he wanted to see me
alone. I went into my room with him,
when he told me he was" a prophet of God,
that he came from Vermont, and he
prophesied that this Government was about
to be overthrown, and the kingdom which
Daniel speaks of was about to be established
somewhere in the West, and he thought
in Illinois.

My brother William arrived from New
Jersey with seme 40 or 50 Saints. I spent
some time with him in the evming.

Elders Young and Woodruff started for
Nauvoo ; but, on account of a tremendous
storm of hail and rain, ihey were glad to
take shelter at broihcr William Diaper's,
where they spent the night.

Tuesday, J23.— Frcm 9 to 12 a general
meeting of citizens, friendly to my election,
was held in the Hull, to elect a delegate to
go to the Baltimore Convention, to be held
on the first Monday in May. D. S. Hollister
was elecied.

Digitized by CjOOQIC

EDITORIAL.'

From 3 to 5 p.m., again assembled, and
many speeches were made, &c. ; and
appointed the second Monday in May to
hold a State Convention at Nauvoo.

In the evening, visited Agnes, my brother
Carlos' widow, and Dr. Richards, with
Hyrum.

Wednesday, 24. — Rode up to the steam-
boat landing, where we found Elder J. M.
Grant, who introduced me to Judge \Villiam
Richards, of New Jersey took him to
brother Winchester's.

In the evening, brother Ezra Thayer, Dr.
Richards, and Dr. Williams were in my
room, and a man who boarded at the
Masonic Hall. At their request, I gave
them a history of the Laws' proceedings, in
part, in trying to make a difficulty in my
family, &c.

Gave recommendations to Elders Amasa
Lyman and D. S. Hollister.

Thursday, 25. — Emma returned from St.
Louis.

A brother who works in the St. Louis
Gazette Office came up at the same time,
and wanted to know by what principle I got

so much power, how many inhabitants
and armed men we had, &c. I told him I
obtained power on the principles of truth
and virtue, which would last when I was
dead and gone, &c.

In General Council from 10 till 12, and
from 2 to 5, when they adjourned sine die,
after appointing a State Convention to meet
in Nauvoo on 17th May. The Council then
dispersed to go abroad in the nations.

Thursday, 25.— Instructed Dr. Richards
to make out a writ of Habeas Corpus for Mr.
Jeremiah Smith, of Iowa, who was expect-
ing to be arrested by the U. S. Marshal for
getting money which was due him, as he
says, at Washington.

A play on rational amusement was to
commence this evening, but a most tre-
mendous shower of rtin and large hail from
the S. W. commenced about 6 p.m., which
prevented it. The small creeks rose over
four feet high, overflowed their banks,
sweeping away fences, and doing consider-
able damage.

The Mississippi river is higher at this
place than ever known by the oldest inhabi-
tant.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, June 15, I861.#

WHAT THE SAINTS ARE CAPABLE OF DOING.

It must be very gratifying to every lover of the cause of God to peruse
President Young's letter, in -which he alludes to the efforts that are being made
this season, by the Saints in Zion, for the deliverance of their brethren and sisters
who are dwelling in Babylon. It is in such striking contrast with the spirit at
present prevailing among men, that it is noteworthy. As brother Elias Smith
truly and appropriately remarks, in an editorial in the Deseret News, upon this
subject —

" A knowledge of the mere fact that a people who have, in the language of prophetic
vision, been * peeled,' 1 trodden down,' ana * cast out' from the midst of plenty to an unin-
habited and unknown barren desert, and there also pursued by the *dogs of war,' envenomed
by the bitterest feeling of hellish misrepresentation and sectarian hate, no sooner find them-
selves relieved from the immediate necessity of guarding their pcnceml homes and families
from the assassin's hand and the spoiler's snare," than they unite by the influence of one
inspiration and rise up to the deliverance of their still enslaved brethren, should produce in
the hearts of the children of men, who watch <for the realization of the promises made to the
fathers of Israel, the liveliest feelings of gratitude."

It is not a people whose coffers are filled with the accumulated earnings and

profits of long years' successful enterprise in agricultural or commercial pursuits

who are making these exertions, but a people whose whole time and means are needed

to secure a subsistence for themselves and families — a people whose only wealth.

consists of the blessings of the Lord upon their strong arms, fruitful and persevering

Digitized by LjOOQ IC

BDITOSJAL.

minds, and mdustrions habits, and who have to wring from the elements, by
severe and unremitting toil, the means of rendering that assistance which thej
have so freely proffered. When it is remembered that it is a people thus situate
who are making these exertions, then do their efforts and benevolent liberality
stand out in striking contrast with the selfishness and grasping cupidity of the

How irreconcilable such a course on the part of the Saints in the Mountains is
with the practices their enemies have imputed to them ! They have circulated
the story in times past, (and we hear it occasionally still,) that the only object
the Latter-day Saints have in view, in inducing the converts to their faith to go
to America, is, to fleece them. They have also said that when they have once
entered the portals of Great Salt Lake City, further egress therefrom is denied
them : they are as though the grave had closed over them, so far as escape is
concerned. Yet here are the various settlements of the Latter-day Saints
throughout Utah Territory, contributing men, oxen, and waggons sufficient to make
up four companies, for the express purpose of, not fleeing from the country and
the much- talked -of " despotism" that is said to prevail there, but bringing in the
poor and the destitute who are unable to reach there unless they are helped.

The following numbers of men, oxen, &c, having been contributed and dent
down for this purpose — the public oxen, waggons, Ac, to assist any Who may need
help, and the private oxen, waggons, &c, to assist special families :— 183 public
waggons, 20 private waggons ; 1,575 public oxen, 124 private do.; 194 public
teamsters, 23 private do. ; and 136,000 pounds of flour to be taken beyond the
South Pass for the immigration, besides an abundant outfit of flour and other
things for teamsters, &c. ; 16 or 18 men as guards, 34,348 pounds of flour for
sale to pay ferriages, buy waggons, groceries for return, &c. This looks like the
very opposite of that system of 44 fleecing" which has been talked about, and those
repressive measures which were said to be enforced to prevent the departure of
of any who might wish to withdraw. But will this evidence— another
added to the multitude of evidences already accumulated — have any effect to
prevent the enemies of truth from manufacturing and circulating, and the
unthinking and unreasoning believers in falsehoods from swallowing, the stupid,
stale stories similar to those which have heretofore gone the rounds ? If it
should, we shall be agreeably disappointed.

This movement of the Church to extend the helping hand to the Saints who
axe desirous of gathering has given as much general satisfaction and pleasure to
the Saints in the Mountains as anything that has been done for a long time, and
we feel confident that it will be received by the Saints throughout this Mission
also with unmixed satisfaction. We shall be disappointed if they do not manifest
a disposition to emulate the noble example set them by the Saints in Zioto.
There may be some of that class to which Elder Owen refers in his letter, who
may feel " bad" because of our exhortations to the Saints upon these points.
But we should be recreant and untrue to our calling were we to hold our peace
at a time like the present — a time that requires all the faith united
with the works of which the Saints are capable. We have their welfare and
salvation too much at heart to refrain from telling them what is for their
good. We know by experience that when an individual or a people become
so poor in their feelings as to neglect to do their share in aiding to roll
* forth the work of God, they are poor indeed. There is a poverty of faith

Digitized by CjOOg IC

394

C3B&B3P0XDKNCT.

under such circumstances that is dangerous. It is as some have told brother Owen,
when they did five times more than they do no«"% they were I et er off and felt
much bstter. The poorest of the Saints, when they do their duty, however little
thit miy 03, Aven if n> m >re th in did the poor widow spoken of in Sjrip'ure. feel
rich in their feelings, an I are much more capable of accomplishing everything
that m ly bo required of them than they would be If they felt otherwise. Such
a course develops faith ; an opposite course dwarf* it.

ARRIVALS OP SAINT3 AT NEW YORK.

We publish with great pleasure in our columns this week the letters received by the

last mail from New York, announcing the safe arrival of the companies of Saints

who left these shores for the laud of Joseph on the ships Manchester and

Underwriter. Of the voyage of the Manchester, we know but little more than

that the Saints who e nbarked on her, arrived in fafety on the 14th of May,

having had a very pleasant trip. The details of the voyage we he ve not received*

The S vints lost no time in New York ; they pushed on west the evening of the

same day on which they landed.

The voyage of the Underwriter is described as being a happy one, and

char:ioteriz ^d by a good spirit and feeling among the Samtn. They landed on

the 22nd of May, having been one day longer on the passage than the Manchester.

Both, ho.vever, mile the trip in mush quicker than avera^i tim?. Respecting

th3 S liits uo >n th3 Underwriter, brother N. V. Jones writes fro.n New York under

date of May 24 th:—

** TYn coTipmy were I in lei at C wtli Gir-ten on th*5 22tH initint, an«l proceeded for the
WeH last evening. I hive sirtvislel in forwarding. be*i le< the M'mtonirH «, abiut thirty -five
adult Dissenters who wsre deficient of mnns to proseel further thai New York, which gave
much joy to them and th?ir fellow-travellers. I was enabled to do so by donations received.
Brothers Orson Pratt, Knstus Snow, and Hooper were here on the arrival of the Saints,
which has proved a gre.it blessing to the Saints."

We sincerely trust that the remainder of the journey to Zion may prove as
prosperous and speedy as the passage between this port and Nt w York has been
safe and pleasant.

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.
Great Salt Lake City, May 2, 1S61.
President George Q. Cani.on.

Deir Brother,— Oi the 19th of April
I wrote quite fully to yourself and
brothers A nisa an I tarles, since
whm [ have no letter from you to
acknowledge still I feel writing to you
again, for T am well aw ire of your
anxiety to receive a word from ho ne.

A* previoudy advised, the four com-
panies for Florence began to ren l*zvout
neir the mouth of Big Kan von Creek
Kan von on* tin 20th ult, and on the
23r 1 be*an to fib through the kanyon ;
anl to-night the rear company will

camp on the Weber. There are up-
wards of 200 wagg. ns, h^id^s some
30 wag 50ns to b^ bou jhtof MrSjhuttler,
an 1 four yoke of cattle to each waggon
sent an I to he bou ;ht. Brothers Joseph
W. Younj, Tra Eldredge, Joseph Home,
an I John R. Murdock are the captains
of the co npanies, and they ta'ce some
150,000 pounds of flour to deposit at
suitable points east of r^e S >uth Paw.
ShouM that amount of flour prove in-
suTicient to enable the companies to
come through, we propose supplying
the deficiency from ner \ ns they wiu
prohably havef*n>ur'i to. last them to
this side of the Pass. Brothers Warren
S. Snow, Jacob G. Bigbr, George Pea*

■

Digitized by

COBBSSPONDBNCE.

895

cock, John D. Chase, and eleven others
accompany the train to Florence on their
way to the fields of their missions in
the States, Europe, and the Cape of
Good Hope.

We confidently anticipate that the
assistance now forwarded will clear
Florence of all the Saints who may be
there wishing to come through this sea-
son and notwithstanding the excitement
abroad in the land, we anticipate that
the brethren will travel so compactly,
act so faithfully and prudently, and
constantly be so on their guard as to
travel in safety to themselves, animals,
and property.

By last night's pony, which brought
dates to the 26th ult., we learn that
the excitement in the States is con-
stantly waxing fiercer, all parties
merging under the geographical dis-
tinction of North and South, and with
increasing bitterness taking sides in
accordance with said geographical party
line, with every prospect of their speedily
precipitating themselves into civil war.
Under existing circumstances, the turn-
ing our immigration into the northern
route and away from St. Louis was
manifestly designed for good, and it is
not likely that they will be seriously
"inconvenienced by the present troubles —
at least, not during tnis season. It is
supposed by some that the Indians on
the route east of the Mountains may be
inclined to be a little troublesome ; but
the four companies from here are
particularly instructed to be ever
on the alert, and at no time to be
ao far apart but what they can assist
each other upon short notice ; and
brothers Joseph W. Young, Ira El-
dredge, Joseph Home, and John E.
Murdock, with brothers Jones and
Gates, will organize and arrange all
the companies to travel in like manner,
and each company reasonably strong
of itself. As *• there is no danger in
being safe," we trust that the immi-
gration will be faithful and prudent in
their conduct, and that their faithful-
ness and good conduct will so secure to
them the blessings of Heaven in their
travellings and campings, that they will
be privileged to arrive safely in our
** mountain retreat."

I was gratified to learn that even so
many as there are were about to emi-
grate from Scandinavia, Switzerland,

and the British Isles, and many here
could rejoice in being able to speedily
deliver from bondage all who desire
to join their faith and works villi us in
building up the kingdom of God on the
earth, lut we feel satUfied to 'bide the
time and ways of the Lord for currying
on his work, realizing that all things
have their times and seasons, and
trusting that the Saints abroad will
dilligently unite their faith and £ood
works with ours for their escape to this
peaceful refuse appointed for the hiuing
of Israel, until at least a portion of the
indignation of the Almighty be past.

The elements continue propitious for
the products of fields and gardens, and
home affairs continue to be characterized
by peace, industry, and increasing
zealousness for good works.

Tour family and the families of the
Elders from here on missions are well
and doing well, so far as 1 am informed,
as are also the people generally.

Praying that all needed blessings
may attend you, brothers Amasa and
Charles, and all who are labouring for
the truth,

I remain your brother in the Gospel,
Bkigham Ypukg.

New York. afaj*24, U61.

To George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — The ship Underwriter
arrived on Tuesday, the 2Ut, lia\ing
had a very prosperous time. Ko deaths,
excepting two small children, which. I
understand were sick when they were
brought on board. Through the aid of
some contributions, the most of the
passengers left for Florence last even-
ing, at which point thry will be obliged
to wait some time, or for the teams
from Utah.

For several weeks past I have heen
in Philadelphia, at which p!tue the
Gospel seems to be taking hold of the
hearts of some of the people. A few
are being baptized every wcik. The
Saints through these lands are using
great exertions to emigrate. It is veiy
difficult for the poor to find employ-
ment, and it is to be feared that many
will greatly suffer before another year
passes.

Elder E. Snow is with me in this
city. Our delegate, Captain Hooper,
is also here. He contemplates return-

Digitized by

396

eOBBXSPONBXNCB

ine to Utah this summer. • L. N. Sco-
Tif and Christopher Merkley are here.

Our latest advices from Utah in-
form us that 200 waggons, with four
yoke of oxen each, and some loose
cattle, left for the frontiers on the
24th April, bringing with them about
150,000 lbs. of flour, to be deposited at
different points east of the South Pass,
for the benefit of our emigration. All
things are in a flourishing condition in
our Territory ; but, alas for the great
American republic, her death-struggles
have come, and they will be long and
terrible. Please give my kind regards
to thejbrethren in the Office.
Yours truly,

Orson Pratt, Sen.

New York, May 21, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I take pleasure in
informing you of the safe arrival of the
ship Manchester on Tuesday, the 14th
instant, with a company of Saints, under
the charge of Eider C. W. Spencer. I
visited the ship in company with
brothers Erastus Snow and Thomas
Williams, aud felt much gratified in
meeting with the Saints, who appeared
in good health and excellent spirits.
They were landed on Wednesday, and,
after attending to the routine at the
Castle Gardens, proceeded west at 10
p.m. the same evening, accompanied
Dy about twenty-two Saints from the
New York Branch.

A small company of Saints, number-
ing about twenty-two, are now here
from the Cape of Good Hope, waiting
to proceed to Florence with the corn-
pan v per Underwriter. The New York,
Philadelphia, and Boston Saints, con-
sisting of from three* to four hundred,
will start for the frontiers about the
12th Jnne.

Brother Pratt is now with me, and
unites with me and brother Williams in
kind love to yourself, brothers Lyman
and Rich, and all with you.

Respectfully yours,

N. V. Jones.

Ship Underwriter, (60 miles from New
York,) May 21, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.
^ Dear Brother, — We address a few
lines to you with pleasure, knowing the
anxiety which will be felt concerning

the condition of this ship's company,
not only by you, but by the whole British
Church.

After our appointment by the Presi-
dency on the 2 1 st April, we proceeded to
organize the company placed under our
watchcare. We divided them into nine
wards — four on each deck, with a
separate ward for the bachelors. A
suitable man was appointed over each,
ward to watch the interests of the
people and give them suitable advice.
We got everything ready for sea as
quickly and merrilv as possible, and on
the 23rd the ship weighed anchor.
The steam-tug had as in tow all night.
We had a very mild and pleasant time
during the remainder of the week.

On Sunday, the 28th, the sacrament
was administered in all the wards simul-
taneously at half- past nine, a.m. In
the afternoon at three o'clock, brother
Penrose preached a discourse on deck.
In the e vening we had a fresh breeze of
wind; also on Monday and Tuesday,
most of the people were sea-sick. We
will not stop to describe the peculiar
pleasures attached to this delightful
recreation, (sea-sickness,) as we do not
wish that the Saints, by anticipation,
should be deprived of its peculiar sen-
sations and Denefits. They must wait
with patience till they come. Experi-
ence will be the best schoolmaster.
However, the wind died away, the

aualms departed, the Saints rose on
leir legs again, and the weather be-
came fipe and pleasant.

On Sunday, May 5th, the sacrament
was administered as before, at three,
p.m. Brother Andrus delivered a dis-
course on the deck, after which the
wind freshened again ; and on Monday
it blew pretty stiffly. Brother Andrus
was taken sick, and on Tuesday was
confined to his bed, where he was con-
fined for a week, suffering severely ; but
by the blessing of God, and through the
faith and constant prayers of the Saints,
he recovered and is now enjoying health.
During this week the weather was foggy
and cold.

Sunday, May 12th. — Meetings as be-
fore, except that the afternoon's meeting,
in consequence of the cold, was held be-
tween decks. Brother Penrose preached
to the Saints. After meeting, the wind
freshened again; and on Tuesday we had
a brisk gale, which lasted till midnight.

COEBBSPONDBNCK.

No damage, however, was done to any
one, and the songs of the Saints could
be heard sounding cheerily while the
ship rolled and pitched, and the angry
winds howled aud grumbled through the
ropes.

8unday, M%y 19th. — A lovely day,
bat a dead calm. Heelings as usual
in the morning. Brother Duncan
preached on deck in the afternoon. A
breeze as usual after meeting, towards
night. • Monday, a strong gale — every-
thing playing a game of "pitch and
toss," unless it was tied ; and then it
looked as if it wanted to. To-day we
have a pilot on board, and are sailing
quietly towards the oft-mentioned and
greatly-desired port of New York.

During our voyage we have had two
deaths— infants, — who were nearly de-
ficient of the breath of life before we
started. The first, sister M'Clean's
son James, of Coventry, aged 15 months
on 29th April. The second, Janet
Gillespie, daughter of Alexander and
Mary Gillespie of Scotland, May 13th,
aged 18 months. Both died of con-
sumption, and both were enclosed in
metal cases to take ashore. We also
had two marriages ; the first on 22nd
April, between Wm. Alfred Garrett and
Ann P. Wilkins, both of Coventry ; the
second between John N. Hinton, of Bir-
mingham, and Emma Spendlove, of
Bowington, Warwickshire, on, 19th of
May.

The general health of the passengers
has been good, no epidemic diseases of
any kind having manifested themselves.
Brother Duncan has been in good health
all the way, and has been able to get
round among the people all the time.
Brother Penrose suffered considerably
from sea-sickness for a few days.

We cannot speak in too glowing
terms of the good spirit and feeling
manifested by the Saints on this happy
voyage. The power of God has been
with them, and they have governed
themselves according to the counsels
rrhieh have been given them, almost
without an exception.

May 23rd. — We arrived on the 22nd,
tnd the majority of the company are
Lbout to start to Florence. We found
brothers Pratt, Snow, Jones, and
Blooper all well.

\ With heartfelt gratitude to God for
t* abundant goodness to us, and with

*30Y •'•

love to brothers Lyman and Rich, and
the brethren in the Office, to yourself,
and all the Saints in the British Mission,
we remain yours in Christ,

Milo Andbus,
Homer Duncan,
Charles W. Penrose.

ENGLAND.
Newport, Monmouthshire, June 11, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I am happy to inform
you that the work of God is progressing
m the Herefordshire Conference, if not
very rapidly, steadily and substantially.
With but few exceptions, the Priesthood
and Saints are unitedly striving to en-
hance the interest of the kingdom of
God upon the earth. The Spirit and
power of the Almighty is increasing
upon the people, manifesting itself in
the gifts of the Gospel, such as tongues,
interpretations, prophecy, &c. Our
meetings are generally well attended by
strangers as well as Saints.

During the last three or four months
we have baptized some twenty persons ;
during the last week, eight, and several
more we expect in a few days.

The Conference is very widely ex-
tended, and we have a great many calls
for preaching — more than we can
possibly respond to, there being only
only one Travelling Elder in the Con-
ference besides myself. If we could
get two or three energetic Elders, filled
with the Holy Ghost, to labour in the
Conference, their time could be very
profitably spent. I suppose you cannot
direct us how to obtain such men. At
present we have very useful men in the
Conference who might occupy such
positions, but they are nearly all mar-
ried, and the Conference is too poor to
support their families.

We are opening new preaching places
weekly, hoping and praying that God
will send more labourers in the vineyard
soon. I rejoice to know that our pros-
pects are brightening daily, and that
they are at present by far mote natter
ing than I have known them since I
returned from Zion. We are sanguine
in the belief that we shall baptize a
a great number this summer. Indeed, I
may further add that although 1 have
been intimately acquainted with this
Conference for years, I never saw things
present a more healthful aspect than

Digitized by

398

SUMMARY OF JTKW8 AND PASSING EVENTS

they do at present ; hut a* far ns the

riople'atempnr Ucnn lition if concerned,
never knew it bo bad. They are cer-
tainly poor, but poorer because they
think they are. They imagine they are
too poor to pay Tithing, or to pay
towards their e-nigrat°on; but I think
they will find out their mistake soon.
Som9 already tell me that when they paid
five shilling* to pvery one they pay now,
they were better off, and felt much
better. Bu l , they are in many instances
blind to their real interest ; and because
of bv-^one oscurrences, some feel bad
to hear you m ike mention of matters.
The reastion is certainly great in this

part ; but the people are a pood peo-
ple, considering their knowledge.

Our District President, brother Gib-
son, frequently visits us, rendering
material aid, and imparting new impetus
to the machinery.

I rejoice with exceeding great and
increasing joy in the work of God, and
in bearing testimony to old friends and
acquaintances.

May God bless your every exertion
to spread the tru'h and defend the
cause of Zion on the earth, is the prayer
of your brother and fellow-labourer in
the kingdom of God.

W. 0. Owejc.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GENERAL.

The QasHte de France publishes s tefe-
gram statin* that, in the recent fight
between the Turin an 1 the insurgents in the
Herzegovina, the former were defeated.
Dervish Pama was marching wi<h 4.000
men aganst the insurgents, by whom his
Yanguwd had been beaten. His troops
were discourage! The sub-governors of
the province had refused to recoamize the
concession made to ths Christians in Omar
Pasha's proclamation, as being in opposition
to the dogma* of the Koran

A lpt f er from Rome in the Nazionale
spates th it. on information derived from the
French police, search had been made afer
a Franc *can monk who had left that city
with the in'en'ioti of assassinating the Em-
peror Nanoleon. The telegraph was set to
work, and the dispraised monk was found in
the ne'ghbourhood of Macon.

The ex*x>nions of the Turkish function-
aries cause increasing distress among the
people. It is asserted that, in Bulgaria, the
Turkish authorities have, under threats of
dea f h. extor f e1 the signature* of the people
to ad Irenes favourable to the existing state
of things. Some districts are agitated.

A le f ter from Athens, of June 1. in the
Ot\ Deutsche Post, mentions the discovery
of a conspiracv to seize the palace and force
the King to dismiss his Ministers and con-
Toke the National Assembly. About a
hundred persons, the letter says, were
arrested ; two of whom were majors m the
army, one a newspaper editor, and another
a Russian officer named Bulgaris. Three
other editors had fled. Several suspected
officers had been removed from their com-
mand. The civil war in America has caused
so great a rise in the price of cotton at Barce-
lona that many of the smaller manufacturers

have closed their factories, and thousands
of workmen have been thrown out of em-
ployment.

In Lisbon, a roval proclamation prohibits
the open-air meeting convened on Sundays
by the Patriotic Society. It is said that
seditious manifestos have been distributed
among the troops.

In Naples, land has been given by Go-
vernment for the erection of a Protestant
church.

The Patrie says — " The Spanish Admiral
Pinzon has received instructiens to the
effect that, if the Emperor of Morocco
should not consent to exchange Tetuan for
Mogadore, the Spanish squadron is to take
possession of the latter place by force, and
disembark there the troops now encamped
on the coast of Arragon."

According to advices received from
Warsaw, an oHin*n"p has been published
there, enumerating the article of dress
which the inhabitants are pre Mb ed frrm
wearing — namely, square caps, Pol sh tunics,
amaranth -coloured waistcoats and neckties,
coloured boots and shoes, and any other
articles of a showy colour.

At the meeting of the Syrian Conference
a definite scheme was agreed to, according
to which there will be one Christian Gover-
nor for the whole of th* Lebanon, to be
provisionally appointed by the Porte far
three years. The V aronites and Dnis •■* are
each to have a sub-governor. T;: kish
troops will provisionally occupy the main
roads of the country.

The Moniteur announces the sett'ement
of the question of the government of the
Lebanon, and gives the following details in
addition to those already known : — The
Governor of the Lebanon will have the rank
of Muchir, and will reside at Der-il-Kamar.

Digitized by

TAHIBTIEJL

399

Order will be ma ? n*ainrd in the mountains
by militia recmied frnm the inhabitants of
the country. Turkish troops are only to
advance into the Lebanon on the requisi-
tion of the Governor.

A sanguinary confict between the British
fleet and the nntWes of Porto Novo, on the
west coast of Africa, has occurred. When
Mr. Foote. Consul at Lagos, proceeded to
Porto Novo for the Turpose of ob'aining
permission for English traders to nrgotiate
wi'h the natives, the request was refused,
and the slave-tratt'c-supportirg Monarch
fired upon the vesse l in which he had taken
up his quaiters. 1 he British fleet was then
directed to bombard the town, which was com-
plete ly destroyed. 7C0 natives being killed.

The Chinese Government have resolved to
establish an Erglish school in Pekin.

The war in New Zealand termina'ed on
the 19th March by the unconditional sur-
render of the natives.

AMERICAN.

The Timrs says it has been determined
to send three regin ents of infantry and a
sufficient amount of artillery and munitions
of war to reinforce ihe garrisens in British
North America. These garrisens had been
so reduced of la'e rears as scarcely to afl'oid
sentries enough for the protection of the
public buildings at the most important mili-
tary posts; and as their weakness seemed
even to invite attcck. it has t een thought
desirable to place them in a position to com-
mand respect from any irregular body
which, in a moment of excitement, might
feel tempted to assail a place « hich seemed
incapable of defence.

A man has been shot dead in the streets

of New York for expressing secession views.
More riots had taktn plate in rait in. ore,
wiih cries for Jef erson Davis : ihe reces-
sion element there is gaining ground.
There has been a clash of arms between the
opposing forces in the Uni'ed States, the
Federal fleet havirg attacked the Ccnfed-
era'e forts at Acquida Cre(k. The feces*
sionists were reported as throwing up en-
trenclments at Mancssas Jmcticn, and at
Alexandra they exrected leinfoi cements
from Richmond. Ti e Tederal forces at
Virginia uere reinfoiced by 5.000 men, and
strong entrenchments conmard Alexandria.
Twenty counties of Western Virginia have
declared against secession.

New gold-fit Ids have been discovered in
British Cell mbia. The auriferous site is
called the Carriboo legien, en ihe Fraser
River, and considerable quantities of gold
have anived thence at Victoria.

The l evolution has been suppressed at
Honduras.

Accounts from Tampico mention a
recent revolt mhich had taken jlace in that
city among the soldiers stuiioi ed in the
fort, in conseqrence of not receiving their
pay. About 15, inclrding seme eft'eers,
were taken out and thot; alter which, older
was restored.

We learn from the Drserct N<ws that
•* the Postmaster-General has re-establisl ed
a post-otrce at loin'ain Green. Sarpete
County, and appointed Bees R. Llewellyn,
postmaster A post -oft ce at Tooele city,
Tooele county, has also be en le-establnhcd,
and Eli B. Ktl&ey appointed postmaster.

VARIETIES.

How is it poss : ble to proceed in two opposite directions at the same time P — By walking
from the forward to the aft part of a vessel *hile sailing.

Urgent Yankee Api eal. — " Tl e gentle man who incdvertenlly took our new be aver, and
left an inferior article in its stead, will do us an infinite kindness by returnirg our own,
and he shall receive our warmest thai ks, and two apologies— an apology for the trouble
we have given him, and the apology lor a hat he left us."

Books in Beards. — A venerable Sj artan being asked why he wore his beard so long,
replied, • That, seeing my grey hairs, I may do nothing rn worthy of them." The same
question havirg been put to a young and red-haired Englishman, he could but pertly re-
ply, *' Oh, I mean to wear it longer yet."

A Young Hibernian, recently imported, being asked if he intended taking a lass with
him to the theatre on Whi'-Monday, replied that if be went by himself he should; but if
lie went with anyone else, he should not.

The following* is the exact copy of a notice recently stuck upon the church door of a
village only a few miles from Cambridge :— *• I Do llear by give Notis that the Overseer

Calls on thursday Eving a bout 5 o'clock for a rat. Signed', , oveneer."

A newspaper tells a very good story of" a clergyman who, havirg recened a public
document, which was ordered to be read in ; 1' the churches, and which was particulaily
obnoxious to the people, shrewdly told his hrarers that, though he had posithe orders to
read the declaration, they had ncne to hear it. they might therefore leave the church.
They took the hinfr&nd the cleigyman read the document to empty pewr.

Digitized by

400 ' POSTJEtY. DEATHS. ADDRESS. .

GARDBHiifo Memoranda. — A good compost for carnations can be made of one-half
rotten horse-dung one year old, or that has been used as a kot-bed; one-third fresh,
sound, loamy earth ; one-sixth coarse sea or river sand : these are to be mixed together
in autumn, laid in a heap about two feet thick, in an open exposure, and turned three or
four times during the winter. When the plants are about to be PO^pV run the above
composition through a coarse sieve, them put some of it into the powflia turn the plants
out of the small pots in which tftey stood &U the winter, taking care that the earth adhere
to them in a ball about their roots ; anclaftef rubbing off about half an inch of the surface
of the old moulds round abpu£ the plants, cleaning them, and cutting off the decayed
leaves, the ball is to be placed m the middle of the pot, and the space filled up between it
and the sides of the pots with the prepared mould. After the plants are all potted, set
them in a sheltered place or airy part of the garden, and put an arch of hoops over them,
so that, in case of frosty nights or heavy rains, mats may be thrown over them. To protect
carnations from wire worm, get a potato and scrape out part of the inside, and bury it
just beneath the surface, close to the stem of the carnation. The wireworms will prefer
this to die stems of the plant, and they will assemble in the potato, which should be
examined once a day and the worms destroyed. The loam for growing carnations in
should be exposed to frost the previous winter as much as possible, turning it at every
opportunity in frosty weather, to allow the frost to penetrate the whole heap, as it will kill
the wireworms and their larvae.

POETRY.

Ye who sit called to terry ben,
Who cannot gather home this year,
Dispel your fears, despond no more;
Good times are yet for yon in store.

Improve the time while here yon stay.
Be always found upon the way
Which leads you in the Gospel track,
And never think of turning back.

Love mercy and do justly too,
Walk humbly with your God anew,

St Helens.

STANZAS.

And strive with energy and will
Jehovah's precepts to fulfil.

The Gospel plan in plainness teach
To all who come within your reach ;
Show, by your walk and precept too.
You are the Lord's own c "

Heed not, though lying tips proclaim
Foul slanders 'gainst your faith and name
Did ancient worthies not endure
Like ills, to make salvation sure?

Barbara Pas*.

Died— In Tooele City, on the 20th January, 1861. Elder Peter Gillespie, sen., aged 68 years, 1 1 months, and
3 days— In Kaysville. March 6th. 1861. Maria Moss, Jan., of inflammation, wife of Joseph Moss, and
daughter Of John and Elizabeth Allin. of the Manchester Conference, England, aged 27 years and 3 months.
At Manti. on the 14th April, of palpitation of the heart, Malinia Jane Hewitt, wife of William K. Barton,
aged 31 years and months. Also at the same place, October 58, 1860, Marrion Edgar Hewitt, son of
William K. and Mahnda J. H. Barton, aged ll months and 29 days. ~

Addrksses,-

-Edward L. 81oan,
Alexander Ross,
William Puller,

Mia Road, Brerton, Liverpool.

CONTENTS.

" Glory to God in the Highest, and on Earth

Peace, Goodwin toward Men" 8*5

Minutes of a General Conference „ 896

History of Joseph Smith 899

Editorial.— What the Saints are Capable of Doing r>2

—Arrivals of Saints at New York 89i

Correspondence.— America : Letter from President
Brigham Yonnjs — Letters from Elder Orson
Pratt, Sen., and Elder N. V. Jones.— Ship

M Underwriter :" Letter from Elders Mflo An-
drus. Homer Duncan, and Chas. W. Penrose. —

England : Letter from Elder W. 0. Owen 894 ■

Summary of News and Passing Events...... j, 7.99

Varieties „ .... 89*

Poetry.— Stansas..... .. 499

Deaths , „ .. 499

Addresses « ™ .. 499

LIVERPOOL:

SOTTED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE <L GANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

k 3AIA AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DSPOT, .*9. FLORENCE I
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS, I

Digitized byC^Ogk

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR

M A noise $haU oma even to the ends of the earth ; for th4 Lord hath a controversy with the nations : he w&
fUad with aU flesh; he will give than that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord." — Jkrkmub.

Ho. 26, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, June 29, 1861.

Price One Penny.

THE FUTURE ABODE OF THE RIGHTEOUS.

BY BLDEK JOHN LINDSAY.

"And they sang a new song, saying, Thou art worthy to take the book and to open the seals thereof;
far thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and
people, and nation; and hast made us unto our God kings and priests) and we shall reign ou the earth."

. 9, 10.)

The above is a subject fraught with
great interest, and therefore ought to
Be considered by mankind of the utmost
importance, as all their hopes and ex-
pectations of the future are centred in
it ; also their happiness at present is
entirely dependent upon it.

Although, however, it is of such in-
finite importanoe to mankind, like many
other glorious principles connected with
their salvation, it fs but little under-
stood by them, tiny considering it too
intricate in its character for contempla-
tion* and too dangerous in its nature to
admit of discussion.

For many generations past, even the
most learned and gifted theologians
nave confessed themselves rather igno-
rant in relation to it; and although
some have ventured to express their
opinion, they have been so lame and
meagre in their nature, that instead of
assisting the honest inquirer after truth
in getting a correct view of the subject,
he is far more likely to be driven into a
oompUcated mase of confusion and un
happy state of bewilderment.

true when the multitude are somewhat
informed on the subject they may coun-
sel upon. But in the present instance it
will not apply ; for the more we investigate
and reflect upon the different opinions
and ideas expressed on the subject by
those who are professedly the spiritual
leaders of the people, the more mistified
and obscure the subject becomes. The
pictures they present and opinions they
express are so numerous, and -at the
same time so much opposed to each
other in reason and Scripture, that many,
alas, in. their investigation, begin, to
question whether ther,e is really a future
state or not ; and not only so, but many
come to this degrading conclusion, and
thereby thousands — yea, millions, are
carried away into infidelity, wholly
owing to the many absurdities incorpo-
rated in the systems of modern Chris-
tianity. This, is all the more to be
lamented from the fact that all classes
are so united in calling out against, and
opposing with so much bitterness, the
very principle or source from which a
true and correct knowledge can be ob-
frne ** wise man," Solomon, has said — tained, namely, revelation from God. But
" In the multitude of counsellors there is 1 they wJho would dare to urge the necessity
safety." Thi* we admit as being strictly 1 of adopting such a plan, or seek to ob-

Digitized by

402

THE FUTURE ABODE

OP THE RIGHTEOUS.

tain knowledge from the above source,
would at once be looked upon as fools
and fanatics, and told most emphatically
that revelation had long since ceased,
and that the canon of Scripture was
full, &c. But again, in modifying the
idea, by directing their attention to the
past revelations of God contained in
the Scriptures of the Old and New Testa-
ments, they would at once be assailed,
and told " that these did not mean
what they said ; and that none but the
wise and learned (?) could give their
true interpretation."

It is very evident from the following
that the Apostle Peter could foresee that
men would begin to circulate such ideas
as the above ; and therefore, to prevent
the honest being caught in the snare, he
expresses himself very definitely in his
2nd Epistle thus : — 44 We have also a
more sure word of prophecy, whereunto
ye do well that ye take heed,as unto a light
that shineth in a dark place, until the
day dawn and the day-star arise in your
hearts ; knowing this first, that no pro-
phecy of the Scripture is of any private
interpretation, for the prophecy came
not in old time by the will of man, but
holy men of God spake as they were
moved by the Holy Ghost." Again, he
predicts 44 that damnable heresies " will
be introduced, and that 44 many will fol-
low their penicious ways, by reason of
whom the way of truth shall be evil
spoken of." These characters, however,
will in no wise escape their reward ; for
he again observes — 44 Their judgment
now of a long time lingereth not, and
their damnation slumbereth not. The
Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly
out of temptation, and to reserve the un-
just unto the day of judgment, to be
punished."

One of the 44 heresies " introduced by
these characters is in relation to the
44 future abode of the righteous." They
have taught, and it is now generally re-
ceived as a correct idea among the great
majority of Christians, that when their
mortal course is run, their spirits will
then 44 soar away

Beyond the bounds of time and space,
And then look forward to a heavenly place."

They will then get into a certain position,
and palms will fall into their hands, and
there they will sit and sing praises to
God throughout the countless ages of
eternity, never changing their position,

or having any interchange of thought
with those by whom they may be sur-
rounded. In fact, it is firmly believed
by a very great number that their former
feelings and sympathies possessed by-
each other while here in the flesh will
be fled! The husband will not then re-
cognize the once dearly-loved one. of his
choice, and so on, the wife her husband,
the parent the child, &c. All those kind,
congenial, and sympathetic feelings,
which at present bring so much joy and
fond satisfaction to the well-springs of
the mind will be past — nay, gone for ever.

Now, there are none who have ever
enjoyed these grand and divine emotions
of the heart, but what will confess, if
they speak truthfnlly, that it takes a
tremendous effort on their part to receive
and believe the idea of having them to-
tally annihilated, and reconciling them-
selves to such ideas as the above.
Indeed, when we calmly reflect the
matter over in our minds, and contem-
plate upon the heaven that 44 Christians "
expect to enjoy, we are compelled to
view it more as a place of punishment
than of enjoyment. In fact, their ideas
in respect to it are unnatural, unreason-
able, and certainly very far from being
scriptural.

We will now proceed to show the
hope the ancients had in regard to their
future abode. In the 19th chapter of
Job, we find the following:— "For I
know that my Redeemer liveth,and that
he shall stand at the latter day upon
the earth ; and though after my skin
worms destroy this body, yet in my
flesh shall I see God." ^ Also 1st John,
3rd chap., verse 2 : — 44 Now we are the
sons of God, and it doth not yet appear
what we shall be; but we know that
when he shall appear we shall be like
him." And again, in the 2nd Epistle
of Paul to Corinthians : — 44 Now we see
through a glass darkly, but then face
to face. Now I know in part, but then
shall I know even as also I am known."

The above passages are do plain, and
yet so definite in their nature, that
their true meaning cannot easily be
misunderstood, unless by private inter-
pretation. We gather from them — as
plain as language can express — that
instead of our general capacity being
in the least diminished, it will be more
fully developed, and, consequently,
better qualified to appreciate the good

Digitized by

THE HELPING HAND.

403

and God-like dispositions of those with
whom we may mingle, even as our Great
Creator n>ow sees and appreciates the
righteous acts of his children ; or, in the
Apostle Paul's own words-—" We shall
see as we are seen, and know as we are
known." We have also the glorious
assurance, from the foregoing, that the
very earth we now inhabit will be our
future abode; and that when Jesus
comes down from on high, to reign with
his Saints on earth, they shall be like him.
Now, where is the soul, once convinced
of this glorious truth, that would not
joyfully exult in the contemplation of
the same, especially as the earth will
then be purged and purified from all
the effects of the curse, and will then
appear in all its glory and splendour,
as it did to the Apostle John, when he
had the privilege to view it in its
glorified condition P

There is; however, to be a great and
mighty change previous to this grand
consummation. The earth will go
through a thorough renovation, so much
00, that the same Apostle calls it " a
new earth." After recapitulating the

awful fate of the wicked, the casting of
Satan into the lake of fire and bnm,-
stone, and the general judgment, he
exclaims — "And I saw a new heaven
and a new earth ; and I saw the holy
city, the new Jerusalem, coming down
from God out of heaven, prepared as a
bride adorned for her husband ; and
I heard a great voice out of heaven,
saying, Behold the tabernacle, of God is
with men ; and he will dwell with them,
and they shall be his people, and
God himself shall be with them,
and be their God, and he shall wipe
away all tears from their eyes; and
there shall be no more death, neither
sorrow, nor crying ; neither shall there
be any more pain, for the former things
are passed away." It will then truly be
a fit habitation for man to inhabit, as
he will have overcome all his trials and
temptations, and gained the victory over
death, hell, and the grave, and be, in the
full sense of the word, a true son of
God, amply fitted and qualified to enjoy
celestial glory in his everlasting king-
dom.

THE HELPING HAND.

(From the "Dutret Newt. ")

We do not know of any movement of
the Church that has given so much
general satisfaction to the people here
as the helping hand now being extended
to the Saints from abroad.

It is certainly gratifying to know that
the people have responded with such
alacrity to the call of the First Presi-
dency, and that they are fully satisfied
with the response to their call, and that
their blessings and good feelings are
over all engaged in the emigration, in
whatever part they have taken or still
take in it. But there is in the move-
ment much beyond the gathering of so
many waggons, teams, and provisions,
and so many men detailed from their
labours of improvement on private and
public* works, either for themselves or
for the Church. We regard the efforts of
the Saints this year to gather their
brethren and sisters from afar as the.
harbinger of greater efforts in the future,
the forerunner of what the people will
yet be able to do for the salvation of
the children of men and the accom-

plishment of the purposes of the Lord,
in gathering them into one, and of
making, of the nations of men scattered
abroad upon the face of the earth, "one
people in the mountains of Israel."

A knowledge of the mere fact that a
people who have, in the language of
prophetic vision,been "peeled," "trodden
down," and " cast out " from the midst
of plenty to an uninhabited and unknown
barren desert, and there also pursued
by " the dogs of war," envenomed by
the bitterest feeling of hellish misrepre-
sentation and sectarian hate, no sooner
find themselves relieved from the im-
mediate necessity of guarding their
peaceful homes and families from the
assassin's hand and the "spoiler's snare,"
than they unite by the influence of one
inspiration and rise up to the deliverance
of their still enslaved brethren, should
produce in the hearts of the children of
men, who watch for the realization of
the promises made to the fathers of
Israel, the liveliest feelings of gratitude.

As said by President Young in the

Digitized by

404 OPINIONS OF

Tabernacle recently, " the Saints here
are not perfect; they have many weak-
nesses ; but they are a good people,"
and all that much can be said of the
^Saints abroad. They have their weak-
nesses ; they are ignorant of many
things ; but they have great confidence
in the matchless work of Jehovah. They
have for many years devoted themselves
to the propagation of the principles of
life and salvation, and from their hard-
earned and scantily-remunerated labour
have contributed freely to the support
of the Elders of Israel in the work, not
only among themselves, but in the
various nations to which, the Elders have
been sent as the heralds of truth and
salvation. We therefore view the pre-
sent assistance rendered these Saints
from abroad, by the Saints at home, as
a helping hand not unworthily bestowed.

THB PRB88.

It would be folly to expect in so large
yearly immigrations that there will not
be henceforth individual cases of un-
worthiness: these must occur, so long
as " tares and wheat grow together."
Such cannot be well avoided, and no-
body is particularly anxious to see im-
mediate perfection. We have unworthi-
ness at home , and we cannot complain
of its coming from abroad, where fewer
opportunities of learning the law of God
have existed. We hope on, and claim
indulgence for those gathered, and we
extend it to those coming ; but while we
cultivate a large disposition of liberality
and forbearance for ignorance and weak-
ness, we are daily increasing in the con-
fidence that the day is fast approaching
when the sinner and hypocrite in Zion
will tremble, and the unworthy abroad
will continue to "stand afar off."

OPINIONS OF THE PRESS.

The following article appeared in the Philadelphia Sunday Mercury of the
5 th of May, and was also reprinted in the Royal Leamington Spa Courier of
the 1st of June: —

"A MORMON PROPHECY. ,
We have in our possession a pam-
phlet, published at Liverpool, in 1851,
containing a selection from the " reve-
lations, translations, and narrations"
of Joseph Smith, the founder of Mor-
monism. The following prophecy is
here said to have been made by Smith
on the 25th of December, 1832. In
view of our present troubles, this pre-
diction seems to be in progress of ful-
filment, whether Joe Smith was a hum-
bug or not : —

•A Revelation and Pbophecy by the
Prophet, Seer, and Revelator, Joseph
Smith.— Verily thus saith the Lord, con-
cerning the wars that will shortly come to
pass, beginning At the rebellion of South
Carolina, which will eventually terminate in
the death and misery of many souls . The days
will oome that war will he poured out upon
all nations, beginning at that plaee; for
behold, the Southern States shall be divided
against the Northern States; and the South-
ern States will call on other nations, even
the nation of Great Britain, as it is called;
and they shall also call upon other nations^
in order to defend themselves against other
nations ; and thus war shall be poured out
upon all nations. And it shall come to pass,
after many days, slaves shall rise up against
their masters, who shall be marshalled and

disciplined for war; and it shall come to
pass, also, that the remnants who are left of
the land will marshal themselves, and shall
become exceeding angry, and shall vex the
Gentiles with a sore vexation ; and thus,
with the sword and by bloodshed, the in-
habitants of the earth shall mourn; and with
famine, and plague, and earthquakes, and
the thunder of heaven, and the fierce and
vivid lightning also, shall the inhabitants of
the earth be made to feel the wrath and
indignation and chastening hand of an
Almighty God, until the consumption decreed
hath made a full end of all nations ; that the
cry of the Saints and of the blood of the
Saints shall cease to come up into the oars
of the Lord of Sabaoth, from the earth, to
be avenged of their enemies. Wherefore,
stand ye in holy places, and be not moved,
until the day of the Lord come; for behold it
cometh quickly, saith the Lord. Amen.'

The war began in South Carolina.
Insurrections of slaves are already
dreaded. Famine will certainly afflict
some Southern communities. The in-
terference of Great Britain, on account
of the want of cotton, is not improbable,
if war is protracted. In the meantime,
a general war in Europe appears to be
imminent. Have we not had a pro-
phet among us P"

Digitized by

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

405

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from pag* 392.)

Friday, 26. — At home.

At 1 a.m., the Marshal went up on the
hill to arrest Augustine Spencer for an
assault on his brother, Orson Spencer,
in his own house. Robert D. Foster,
Charles Foster, and Chauncey L. Higbee
came down. Charles Foster drew a pistol,
pointed towards me, and threatened to
shoot while standing on the steps of my
office. I ordered h im to be arrested and
the pistol taken from him, when a
struggle ensued, in which Charles
Foster, Robert D. Foster, and Chauncey
L. Higbee resisted, and I ordered them
to be arrested also, and I as the Mayor
ordered the policemen to be called;
then went on to try Augustine Spencer.
He was fined $100 and required to give
bonds in $100 to keep the peace for six
months. He appealed the case at once
to the Municipal Court.

Robert D. Foster, Chauncey L. Higbee,
and Charles Foster were also tried for
resisting the authorities of the city.

O. P. Rockwell sworn.

Marshal John P. Greene sworn: —
Said Dr. Foster swore by Qod that he
would not assist the Marshal, and swore
by God they would see the Mayor in
hell before they would go; and that
Charles Foster drew a pistol and pre-
sented at the Mayor, which was being
wrested from him when Dr. R. D. Foster
interfered. Chas. Foster and Chauncey
L, Higbee said they would be God
damned if they would not shoot the
Mayor. They breathed out many hard
threatenings and menacing sayings.
They said they would consider them-
selves the favoured of God for, the
privilege of shooting or ridding the
world of such a tyrant (referring to the
Mayor).

J. W. Coolidge sworn, and confirmed
the Marshal's testimony.

Elbridge Tufts sworn, and confirmed
the foregoing statements.

Robert D. Foster, Charles Foster, and
Chauncey L. Higbee were each fined
$100. They immediately took an appeal
to the Municipal Court.
* I issued a warrant for R. D. Foster,
on complaint of Willard Richards, for a
breach of ordinance, in that Foster said
to Richards—" ifou," shaking his fists

in the doctor's face, "are another
damned black-hearted villain ; you tried
to seduce my wife on the- boat, when
she was going to New York, and I can
prove it ; and the oath is out against
you."

Saturday, 27. — A large company of
gentlemen from St. Louis, and other

£ laces on the river, called at the
Lansion. After spending some time,
they returned to the boat, but it was
gone, when they again returned to the
Mansion.

At 9 a.m., the case of Robert D.
Foster came up for trial before the
Municipal Court. I had a conversation
with Foster, in which he charged me
with many crimes, and said that Danite-
ism was in Nauvoo ; and he used a
great variety of vile and false epithets
and charges.

The court adjourned to Monday, the
29th, at 9 a.m.

Foster agreed to meet me on the second
Monday in May, at the Stand, and have
a settlement, and he would publish the
result of it in the Warsaw papers. ^ I
told him, if he did not agree to te quiet,
and not attempt to raise a mob, I would
not meet him ; if he would agree to be
quiet, I would be willing to publish the
settlement in the Neighbour. But Foster
would not agree to be quiet. I then
told him J had done my duty; the
skirts of my garments were free from
his (Foster's) blood ; had made the last
overtures of "peace to him; and then
delivered him into the hands of God,
and shook my garments against him as
a testimony thereof.

I continued in Office some time after-
wards in conversation, and then went
into the big room and read in the
Warsaw Signal a vile article against the
Saints.

Elder Hiram Clark arrived from
Liverpool, accompanied by 150 immi-
grating Saints. »

There was a meeting at the Stand at
one o'clock, to give instructions to the
Ehjers going out electioneering. They
were addressed by President Rigdon
aid William Smith.

Dr. Richards prosecuted Robert D.
Foster for slander, &c.

Digitized by

406

HISTOIIY OF JOSEPH 8MITH.

Sunday, 28. — At home. A beautiful
clear day.

My brother Hyrum preached at the
Stand in the morning, and, among other
things, said the time will shortly come
that when one man makes another an
offender for a word, he shall be cut off
from the Church of Jesus Christ. There
were Prophets before Adam, and Joseph
has the spirit and power of all the
Prophets.

President B. Young also spoke very
pointedly and truly about Dr. Foster
and others*. Dr. Foster was cursed,
and the people cried, " Amen."

Several persons were baptized in the
river, at the foot of Main-street.

There was a meeting of the Twelve
Apostles, Seventies' and others, in the
Seventies' Hall, in the afternoon.

Prayer meeting in the evening : the
brethren prayed for the sick, a deliver-
ance from our enemies, a favourable
termination to lawsuits, &c, &c. I had
been suddenly taken sick, and was
therefore unable to attend.

A Conference of Elders assembled at
Yelrome, or Morley Settlement, Lima ;
Isaac Morley presiding ; when a quorum
of High Priests was organized, consist-
ing of 31 members. Horace Rawson,
President, Philip Gardner and Joseph
S. Allen, his Councillors, and James C.
Show, Clerk.

There was a meeting at Wilson Law's,
near the saw-mill, of those who had been
out off from the Church, and their dupes.
Several affidavits which they had taken
against me and others were read.
William Law, Wilson Law, Austin A.
Oowles, John Scott, sen., Francis M.
Higbee, Robert D. Foster, and Robert
Pierce were appointed a committee to
visit the different families in the city,
and see who would join the new Church ;
i.e., as they had decided that I was a
fallen prophet, Ac. : and they appointed
William Law in my .place, who chose
Austin Oowles and Wilson Law as his
Councillors. Robert D. Foster and
Francis M. Higbee to be two of the
Twelve Apostles, &c, &c, as report says.

Elder James Blaokeslee preached in
the forenoon, bearing a fathful testi-
mony of the truth of the work and my
being a true Prophet, and in the
afternoon joined the Anties. They chose
Charles Ivins, Bishop.
, A Conference was held in Sheffield,

England, representing 215 members, 7
Elders, 19 Priests, 5 Teachers, and 3
Deacons.

Monday, 29. — At home; received a
visit from L. R Foster of New York,
who gave me a gold pencil case, sent me
by brother Theodore Curtis, who is now
in New York; and the first words I
wrote with it were, " God bless the
man !"

At 11 a.m., Robert D. Foster came
-up for trial. I transferred the case to
Alderman William Marks. Foster
objected to the jurisdiction of the court,
also to an informality in the writ, &c.

The court decided he had not juris-
diction. Esq. Noble, from Rock River,
assisted the City Attorney. Esq. Patrick
was present.

I called a special session of the City
Council at 3 J p.m., when it was voted
that W. W. Phelps take the place of
John Taylor during his absence this
season ; also Aaron Johnson in place of
Orson Hyde ; Phineas Richards m place
of Heber C. Kimball ; ^Edward Hunter in
place of Daniel Spencer ; Levi Richards
in place of Brigham Young, as Coun-
cillors in the City Council ; and Elias
Smith, as Alderman, in place of George
A. Smith.

Lieut. Williams filed his affidavit
versus Major-General Wilson Law, and
he was suspended from office to await
his trial before a court-martial of the
Nauvoo Legion, for ungentlemanly
conduct, &c. ; and he was notified of his
command in the Legion being suspended*
and Charles C. Rich was notified to
take command, and also notified dbven
officers to sit as a court-martial.

William Law was suspended for trial
about the same time.

Steamer Mermaid touched at Nauvoo
House, landing at 5 p.m,, for a abort
time when going down.

John P. Greene published the follow-
ing in the Neighbour : —

" All is peace at Nauvoo among the
Saints :

But, Mr. Taylor, I wish you to give the
following outrage an insertion in the
Neighbour % that the public mind may be
disabused, and the disgrace and shame fall
on those who have justly deserved it and
merited the people's rebuke !

On Friday morning, the 26th inst.^ I was
informed by Mr. O. P. Rockwell that one
Mr. Augustine Spencer had committed an
assault on the person of Alderman Orson

Digitized by CjOOg IC

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

407

Spencer, and the Mayor of the city had sent
for A. Spencer, and found him in Marr's
law office, made him a prisoner, and
informed him he must go with me to the
Mayor's office, when he said he would
not go.

I then called upon R. D. Foster, C. L.
Higbee, and C. A. Foster to assist me in
taking said Spencer to the Mayor's office ;
but they swore they would not, and used
many threatening oaths and aspersions,
saying they would see the Mayor and the
city damned, and then they would not ; but
soon followed me and Mr. Spencer to the
office-door, when the Mayor ordered me to
arrest those three men for refusing to assist
me in the discharge of my duty ; and when
attempting to arrest them, they all resisted,
and with horrid imprecations threatened to
shoot.

I called for help, and there not being
sufficient, the Mayor laid hold on the two
Fosters at the same time. At that instant
C. A. Foster drew a double-barrel pistol on
Mr. Smith, but it was instantly wrenched
from his hand ; and afterwards he declared
lie would have shot the Mayor, if we had let
his pistol alone ; and also he would thank
God for the privilege of ridding the world of
a tyrant! C. L. Higbee responded to
Foster's threats, and swore that he would
do it.

However, the three were arrested and
brought before the Mayor ; whereupon 0. P.
Bock well, Joseph Coolidge, J. P. Greene,
and E. Tufts testified to the amount of the
above statements ; upon which evidence the
court assessed a fine of one hundred dollars
to each of the above-named aggressors, who
appealed to the Municipal Court.

I wish the public to know who it is that
makes insurrections and disturbs the peace
and auiet of the people of the city of Nauvoo ;
and in order to do this, I need only to tell
the world that this R. D. Foster is a county
magistrate, and the same R. D. Foster that
was fined for gambling a few weeks since ;
and that this C. L. Huroee is a lawyer and
notary public of Hancock county, and the
same G. L. Higbee that was fined for
insulting the city officers (the Marshal and
a Constable), when in the discharge of their
official duties, a few weeks since.

• When the wicked rule the people mourn,
but righteousness exalteth any nation.' —
[Solomon.]

J. P. Greens. City Marshal.

N.B. — We wish it to be distinctly under-
stood that neither of the three above-named
individuals are members of the Church of
Latter-day Saints, but we believe C. A.
Foster is a Methodist. J. P. G.

Tuesday, 30.7— At home, counselling

the brethren about many things ;
received much company, &c.

In the afternoon, in council with
Hiram Clark and B. Young, at B.
Young's house, on the affairs of the
Church in England.

A complaint was commenced against
William and Wilson Law in the Masonic
Lodge, <Sbc.

Sent notification to two more officers
to sit in the court-martial on the trial
of William and Wilson Law.

The Ospray steamer touched at the
Nauvoo House landing in the evening.

May 1. — Wednesday, 1, heavy rain
and wind last night.

At home counselling the brethren, and
rode out a short time in the afternoon
with a gentleman from Quincy.

Elder Lyman Wight and Bishop
George Miller arrived from the Pine
country.

Mr. Thomas A. Lyne, a tragedian
from New York, assisted by G. J.
Adams and others, got up a theatrical
exhibition in the lower room of the
Masonic Hall, which was fitted up with
very tasteful scenery. They performed
"Pizarro," "The Orphan of Geneva,"
"Douglas," "The Idiot Witness," "Da-
mon and Pythias," and other plays, with
marked success. The hall was well
attended each evening, and the audience
expressed their entire satisfaction and
approbation.

Thursday, 2. — Very windy all night,
breaking down large trees ; a thunder-
storm also.

At home, and counselling the brethren.

Sent William Clayton to Wilson Law
to find out why he refused paying his
note, when he brought in some claims
as a set-off, which Clayton knew were
paid, leaving me no remedy but the
glorious uncertainty of the law.

At 10 a.m., the Maid qf Iowa steamer
started for Bock Biver for a load of
wheat and corn to feed the labourers
on the Temple.

William Clayton and Colonel Stephen
Markham started to attend court at
Dixon, on the case of "Joseph Smith
v. Harmon T. Wilson and Joseph H.
Beynolds."

In the afternoon I rode to the prairie
to sell some land, and during my
absence Lucien Woodworth returned
from Texas.

Digitized by

Google

403

EDITORIAL.

Lieut. Aaron Johnson made the
following affidavit : —

14 Nauvoo, May 2nd, 1844.

44 State of Illinois, Hancock co., )

City of Nauvoo. ) 88

Personally appeared before me, John
Taylor, Judge-Advocate of the Nauvoo
Legion, Aaron Johnson ; and being duly
sworn deposes and says that on or about the
28th day of April, 1844, at the dwelling-house
of Wilson Law in Nauvoo aforesaid, Colonel
K. D. Foster, Surgeon-in-Chief and brevet
Brigadier-General of said Nauvoo Legion,
while talking about General Joseph Smith,
said that General Smith kept a gang of
robbers and plunderers about his house for
the purpose of robbing and plundering, and

(To be continued.)

he (Smith) received half the spoils; also
that said General Joseph Smith tried to $et
him (Foster) to go and kill Boggs, with
many other ungentlemanly and unofficer-
like observations concerning said General
Smith and others.

Aaron Johnson,
2nd Lieut., 1st Comp., 1st Regiment,
2nd Cohort, Nauvoo Legion.
11 Personally appeared, Aaron Johnson,
the signer of the above complaint, and
made oath the same was true according to
the best of his knowledge and belief, the
day and year above written before me,
John Taylor,
Judge- Advocate of the Nauvoo Legion,'*

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR,.

Saturday, June 29, 1861.

PROPHECY AND ITS FULFILMENT— A STRIKING ILLUSTRATION.

o — —

In the month of May, 1843, the Prophet Joseph Smith held a conversation with,
Judge Stephen A. Douglas at the town of Carthage, State of Illinois, (at which
place Douglas was then holding court,) in relation to the persecutions he and his
brethren and sisters had endured in the State of Missouri, The Judge was de-
sirou8 to hear tho particulars, and requested the recital ; and the Prophet willingly
complied. In concluding his remarks, brother Joseph said —

44 If the Government which received into its coffers the money of citizens for its public
lands, while its officials are rolling in luxury at the expense of its public treasury, cannot
protect such citizens in their lives and property, it is an old granny anyhow ; and I pro-
phesy, in the name of the Lord God of Israel, that unless the United States redress the
wrongs committed upon the Saints in the State of Missouri, and punish the crimes com-
mitted by her officers, that in a few years the Government will be utterly overthrown and
wasted, and there will not be so much as a potsherd left, for their wickedness in permitting
the murder of men, women, and children, and the wholesale plunder and extermination of
1 thousands of her citizens, to go unpunished ; thereby perpetrating a foul and corroding
blot upon the fair fame of the great republic, the' very thought of which would have caused
the highminded and patriotic framers of the Constitution of the United States to hide their
faces with shame."
And afterwards added —

44 Judge, you will aspire to the Presidency of the United States ; and if ever you turn you*
hand against me or the Latter-day Saints, you will feel the weight of the band of the Al-
mighty upon you ; and you will live to see and know that I have testified the truth to you ;
for the conversation of this day will stick to you through life."

Mr. Douglas was then a young man about thirty years of age, and by no means a
prominent man in the nation, though rather a conspicuous man for his age* in
his adopted State, Illinois. He had previous to that time been a member of tho
State Legislature, and Secretary of the State ; but had never been a member of
the National Legislature, having been beaten in a closely-contested battle for that
position. He, doubtless, felt upon the occasion of this conversation somewhat as

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL, ,409

Hazael did when the Prophet Elisha told him, (weeping the while,) through the
gift of prophecy, that he would he king of Syria, and the evil he would then iperpe-
trate upon Israel. " Is thy servant a dog, that he should do this great thing P" was
Hazael's reply ; and if we may form any opinion of Judge D.'s feelingnr at that
time by his expressions upon hearing the story of the wrongs of the peojue of God
in Missouri, and by his previous aots, it was equally foreign to his Noughts to
turn his hand either against Joseph or the people over whom he presided. There
can he hut little doubt that he firmly believed then that if the turning of his hand
against the Latter-day Saints was the only contingency that would prevent his
being President of the United States, he would surely obtain the office. Up to.
that time he had been friendly to Joseph and to the people. 0f this thii Prophet
had made public acknowledgment and record ; and in return/the Judge Jiad re-
ceived acts of kindness and manifestations of gratitufo^hich he. professed to
esteem highly. Upon hearing this recital also of the persecutions in Missouri
from the principal victim of Missouri's hatred, He denounced Governor Boggs and
the authorities of that State who had taken part in the extermination, and said
that any people that would do as the mobs of Misaourjl had done ought to be
brought to judgment— they ought to be punished.

But the servant of the Lord, through the inspiration of His Spirit, knew the
man better than he knew himself. He knew that the time would come when
D. would aspire to the Presidency of the United States, and, in his anxiety to
reach that exalted position, might think it advantageous to efface from his memory
all recollection of the bitter wrongs we had endured, and treat us as cruelly as
others had done before him. Before Mr. Douglas himself had probably conceived
the ambition to be Chief Magistrate of the nation, — and, if such a thought ha<i
obtained conception in his own mind, before it had been communicated to others-
aye, years before any person in the country had thought of looking towards
Stephen A. Douglas as an aspirant then, or in the future, for Presidential honours,
the Spirit of the Lord manifested to his servant the Prophet that such should be
the case, and he was prompted to warn him that, if he ever should take any step
against the work of God, the hand of the Almighty should be heavy upon him.

This prophecy of the Prophet Joseph's was remembered by Douglas: years
afterwards he alluded to it when its fulfilment was nearly realized. But the
feelings of sympathy he entertained for persecuted innocence when he was a
young man wore away as he advanced in years, and his soul became filled with
ambitious aspirations and projects. At the time of the conversation alluded to.
above, it was to his interest also to be upon friendly terms with us. We were a
power in the State, and Douglas was too shrewd a politician, even then, not to
see the advantages of being oh the right side of a community who held the
balance of power between the rival parties. But when we were far removed,
and our influence was not available, he found it convenient to forget the past
interchange of kindly feelings — to forget the benefits he had received. The
warning of Joseph he could afford to disregard ; for had he not become an
acknowledged leader in the Democratic party in the nation P Were not the eyea
of the nation upon him as its most prominent public man P and had he not devoted
and powerful friends P Why should he, the powerful Senator, whose name and
deeds were upon everybody's tongue, and whose fame was trumpeted forth upon
every breeze, pay attention to the warning of Joseph Smith, uttered years before
hi an obscure town in Illinois P Who knows but the secret hope of proving

Digitized by

Google

410

EDITORIAL.

Joseph a false prophet prompted him, when the object which he so hopefully and
persistently sought appeared to be within reach of his grasp, to turn his hand
against those whom he had been warned not to assail P At any rate, after having
contributed more probably than any other man towards securing to James
Buchanan the Presidential nomination, and having obtained the understanding
that he was to be nominated at the next National Convention, he, from the
evidence that has thus far come to light, with others of his party, chalked out a
plan of operations against the people of God in the Mountains, which James
Buchanan, as President, did all in his power for awhile to carry out. In the
height of his popularity, at the zenith of his power, when every prospect wag
seemingly fair before him, he came out publicly in a speech delivered at
Springfield, Illinois, and gave us a most cjuel and uncalled-for thrust. Not
content with being cognizant of plots concocted in secret for our destruction, he
came out publicly and recommended wicked plans, ^ind avowed deadly hostility
and rancorous hatred against a people whose treatment of him had ever been
kind.

Assuming that we were all we had been represented to be, he urged the removal
of Governor Toung and associates from office, the importing of other officers to
Utah to fill their places, and an investigation into affairs there. A friend of the
notorious Drummond, he seemed to breathe the same spirit and endorse the same
falsehoods as that debased creature. In that spirit he said —

" Should such a state of things exist as we are led to infer from the reports, and such
information comes in an official shape, the knife must be applied to this pestiferous, dis-
gusting cancer, which is gnawing the very vitals of the body politic. It must be cut out
by the roots, and seared over by the red-hot iron of stern and unflinching law."

If this method did not succeed, then there was another remedy he proposed, and
that was the repeal of the organic law of our Territory and the blotting out of our
organization, upon which all our laws for civil government were based. This was
to deprive us of all semblance of law at home, and to give our enemies a pretext
to drag us for offences, real or imaginary, from eight hundred to twelve hundred
miles from our friends and residences, to be tried in the courts of any of the
nearest neighbouring States or Territories. Gould anything be more diabolical
than this P

But, mark the fulfilment of the word of the servant of the Lord ! From the day
that speech was delivered, Senator Douglas went down. The Lord had respect
unto the word of his servant, and laid His hand upon him so that he felt its weight.
From being the bosom friend of President Buchanan, he became, shortly after this,
his most bitter and unrelenting enemy ; from being the idol of his party, the chief
to whom all paid homage, he became the Ishmael — the man against whom every
man's hand was directed. Those who had been his warmest friends, his brother
Senators, members of the same party, heaped upon him every humiliation they
could, and stripped him of every honour in their power. The very speech that he
made, hoping to increase his own popularity by the abuse of a slandered and un-
popular people, became a weapon in the hands of his former friends that they used
with excellent effect. He struggled desperately, but to no purpose ; the decree
had gone forth, and he went down, down, down. No exertions were spared by him x
to secure the nomination for President; but, rather than accept him as their can-
didate, the Democratic party committed felo de se by splitting, which gave the
victory to their opponents, the Republicans, Douglas scarcely obtaining the vote
of a single State. His prestige was gone, and he lived long enough to see hi ms el f

Digitized by VjOOg IC

COBBESPONDENCE .

411

stand friendless and alone in the Senate Chamber, without influence to carry
through any measure, where previously he had stood forward as the champion
and leader of a powerful party.

Stephen A. Douglas died at Chicago, Illinois, as we learn from the papers
by the last mail from America, on the morning of the 3rd instant. He lived
sufficiently long to see the fulfilment of the Prophet Joseph's words respecting
himself, and lived also to see the commencement of the fulfilment of his words
respecting the fate that should befall the nation, unless it should redress the
wrongs inflicted upon the Saints in the State of Missouri. His eyes closed upon
a dismembered nation, a country engulphed in civil war, a people crazy
with the desire to imbrue their hands in each other's blood, and a future so
gloomy that there was not a single ray of hope to illumine the dark vista, and,
worst of all, destitute of the consolation that a life well spent in the cause of
truth and iustice would not fail to give. Injustice to his memory, however, we
must say that he expressed, upon several occasions, his regret to a certain friend,
that he had ever delivered his Springfield speech. He felt that he had stultified
himself. Whether it was a genuine sorrow for the attempted injury to the people
of Utah that prompted the expression of such sentiments, admits of some doubt,
though the remembrance of brother Joseph's prophecy must have been ever pre-
sent with him when he reflected upon the subject.

Who that knows the history of Senator Douglas, and reads the above prophecy
of brother Joseph Smkh, can fail to be struck by its remarkable fulfilment P Pos-
terity will quote it as a most striking instance of the fulfilment of prophecy, and
wonder how it and numerous other prophecies, which have been quite as literally
and pointedly fulfilled, have failed to arrest the attention of a generation con-
versant with these events. When will nations and men of high and low degree
take warning by the events which are taking place, and cease to array themselves
against the Lord by opposing his work P When will they learn that no weapon that
is formed against Zion can prosper, and no tongue that shall rise up in judgment
can escape condemnation P Here is the case of a master-spirit^a man of command-
ing ability, whose position was almost unassailable, and who possessed every ad-
vantage ; but all can see how it resulted. He lived to see and know that his
attempt to injure the work of God only injured himself, and that the servant of
God had testified the truth to him. " Surely, the Lord God will do nothing, but
he revealeth his secrets unto his servants the Prophets."

News prom Home.— By letter from President Young, under date of Maj 7th,
we learn that he intended to start on the 15th of that month on a visit to
the most southern settlements, and would be absent from four to six weeks.
President Wells and others would accompany him. President Kimball would -
remain in Great Salt Lake City, his health and business preventing him from
making the trip.

COBBESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

Redditch, June 8, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon,— Knowing the
continued interest you take in all that
appertains to the welfare of the king-
dom of God, I will endeavour to give
you some idea of how matters are pro-
gressing in this region of country.

The Saints are generally feeling well,

and are taking a lively interest in their
meetings, whfle the Spirit of the Lord
seems to be on the increase among the
people. Quite a number of strangers
attend our meetings, and there is not
that malicious spirit of persecution
manifested towards us by the world
which has been displayed in former
times. Baptisms are more or less fre-
quent every week, and the hon

Digitized by *

412

CORRESPONDENCE.

inquiring after the truth. Thus the
prospects before us are good.

I left Leamington yesterday morning,
and before leaving 1 was informed that
the editor of the most popular news-
paper of that place had inserted the
revelation given to the Prophet Joseph
Smith, Dec, 25, 1832, in his issue of
June 1st. This paper is supported by
the aristocratic section of society, many
of whom flock there during the summer
months to spend the season. Having
obtained a copy of the impression in
which the revelation appeared, I for-
ward it to you. It is a source of pleasure
to see that men are beginning to be
willing in the day of God's power. A
short time ago this same editor would
have considered it an insult if an Elder
had asked him to insert the name of
Joseph Smith in his columns, as he then
thought that the name of " Mormon"
would have offended his subscribers,
unless used in contempt and derision.

It is good to see the truth receiving
publicity by those who have heretofore
treated it contemptuously, and that the
revelations of heaven are making their
way into the halls of the rich, where
Our Elders or tracts cannot obtain ad-
mission.

I am often led to think of the unto-
ward circumstances under which Co-
lumbus laboured when he told the
world that he believed there was another
hemisphere to counterbalance this one.
He was scoffed at and derided ; but,
nevertheless, what he declared was the
truth. How must his opposers have
felt when time and perseverance proved
beyond all doubt the truth of his iJieory !
Now, millions can see that he was per-
secuted wrongfully, and wonder why
such opposition was manifested to the
practical testing of the opinons he
advanced.

This figure clearly shows to me the
condition in which the Christian world
generally will be placed in a period of
time not very remote from the present.
The world have scoffed at the Prophet,
and at the Elders sent unto them ; they
have sworn that Joseph was an impostor,
and murdered him in cold, blood ; they
have treated the revelations of God,
given through him, as a puff of wind;
and those who have dared to believe
and practise the doctrines* which he
taught, they have sought to drive from

their, midst, endeavouring to starve
them into a violation of their con-
sciences, by discharging them from
their employment, and closing up every
avenue of labour against them. * But the
day is near at hand when the Saints
will possess the kingdom and the great-
ness thereof under the whole heavens.
Then many people will say, " Come, let
us go up to the mountain of the Lord,
to the house of the God of Jacob." Then
will millions know that he whom they
have persecuted and killed was the man
appointed by God to bring about the
redemption of Zion; then will the
heavenly reality present itself to the
world, that the kingdom of God is set
up in power, never more to be thrown
down ; and then will the poor inherit
the earth, as promised by the Saviour
of mankind. This subject is dear to all
true Saints, and I love to contemplate
upon it.

Praying God to bless the efforts made
by nis servants to spread the truth, I
subscribe myself your brother and fel-
low-labourer in the kingdom of God,
Samuel L. Adams.

Birmingham, June 15, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — I am happy
to say that the work of God is on Uie
increase in this part of his vineyard.

The Saints are rejoicing in the Gospel
with Joy unfeigned, and are longing for
the time when their emancipation will
be effected. The spirit of gathering
seems to burn in every bosom. The
signs of the times indicate to them the
necessity of seeking the retreats of the
Mountains, where God is keeping his
people in peace, and teaching the laws
of righteousness, and giving those
principles which, if obeyed, will elevate
us in the scale of being, and make us
feel that we are advancing towards the
design of our existence. The times,
however, are disabling them from
delivering themselves, work is hard to be
obtained, and wages are lower than ever ;
yet they rejoice in the truth, and feel to
put their trust in God and his promises,
and abide their time, confident that all
things work for the good of his Saints
and the extension of truth.

The Priesthood are united with me in
the preaching of the Word, delivering
testimony to the world, and building up
Digitized by Google

, C0BBE8P0NDENCB.

413

the Saints. "We generally have good at-
tention paid during open-air preaching,
which is entered into heartily and
pretty extensively. The Word takes
visible effect in some places, and in
others it will be longer in sprinting forth
and showing fruit ; yet we feel assured
that the good seed is under the care of
God and his angels, accompanied by the
Spirit, and not one grain will be lpst :
it will germinate in due time, according
to the nature of the soil and climate
where it was sown, and, like the bread
cast upon the waters, will be seen after
many days.

Last Sabbath, I had the pleasure, in
one Branch, to assist in the confirma-
tion of six persons. Others are nearly
ready for the washing of regeneration.
The Priesthood are united, obedient,
and spirited; and I look for a good
harvest of souls.

I visit as many as I can, in the
multiplicity of my labours, of our old
friends who were once with us; and
they generally give us a hearty welcome
and God-speed, as the servants of the
Most High, and many are favourably
disposed. God forgets not those who
are his ; and though they neglect him
for a time, yet he draws them by his
good Spirit, and sends his messengers,
the Priesthood, to shed around them a
happy influence, and to invite them to
the " old paths."

I pray God for the prosperity of Zion,
the spread of truth, and the advance-
ment of our race ; and whether I am
successful or not in accelerating the
great work,*I purpose doing all that in
me lies ; and trust that I may satisfy
the desires of my spirit, that when I
return home, it may be said to me,
as well as all my brethren on missions,
"Well done!"

May God bless you and your co-
workers of the Presidency in your
arduous labours that truth may
triumph.

Yours truly,

W. G. Mills.

Nottingham, June 12, 1881.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I feel to write you a
few lines, explanatory of the reasons
why the figures, which have at different
times been affixed to my name, were at-
tached thereto, in order to stake a dis-

tinction between me and other men
bearing the same name.

On the 7th of July, 1846, I was first
baptised into the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints, when I was known
as James Brown, without any other dis-
tinction. On the 8th of the above-
named month, 1846, I enlisted in the
service of the United States, against
Mexico, as a private soldier, in com-
>any D, of the " Mormon Battalion. 9 *
' Flier e being an older man than myself
of the same name in that company at
the time, when the sergeant called
the name of one, both of us answered
to it : hence, to distinguish us, they
called him James Brown first, and me
James Brown second; and thus my
name was written and sent up in the
rolls ; and I suppose it was so entered
at that time in the Church History —
viz., James Brown 2nd.

In the fall of 1848, when I went up
to pay my Tithing, there was James
Brown 1st, and James Brown 2nd, on
the Tithing Books ; and as I had never
paid any Tithing, it was very evident
that there were two James Browns on
the Church records before me. It
therefore became necessary that I
should adopt some other mark of dis-
tinction to my name ; hence the figure
3 was affixed, and from that time up to
the present my name has appeared in
print and before the public as James
Brown 3rd.

Now, after having many questions
propounded to me as to the why and
wherefore of this 3rd, I have resolved
to omit it altogether, and substitute the
letter S, medially, in my name, in its
stead, as that will be better understood
and will appear better in history;
and it will not only be a distinction
in my name, but it will serve to
keep up the name on my mother's
side, her .maiden name having been
Stephens.

I, therefore, from and after the date
of this letter, sign my name " James S.
Brown," and request all my friends
and brethren who have in times past
had occasion to record my name in tneir
private journals, or any other history,
which in after times may be read, to
make this distinction, and show the
change ; for James Brown, James Brown *
2nd, James Brown 3*4, and Jams S. f
Brown wear the same pairs* wlrisksrs,

Digitized by Google ,

414

CORRESPONDENCE

stand in the same pair of boots at
the same time, and are but one person.

You will please to publish this
explanation in the Millennial Star, and
oblige your brother in the Covenant of
Truth,

James S. Brown,
late James Brown 3rd.
p.S. — Deseret News and Mountaineer,
please copy the above, and oblige
* J. S. B.

WALES.
Haverfordwest, June 7, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — You have learned
some of our proceedings and prosperity
in the work of our Lord and Master
through brother G. G. Bywater's letter,
which appeared in the Star a few weeks
ago. I feel very happy to inform you
that the good work is on the increase
throughout the Welsh Mission. I have
visited all the Conferences in South
Wales, which are six in number, since
we held our Conference at Merthyr Tydvil
on the 5th May ; and brother By water
has visited the North Wales Conferences
since that time, and transacted the ne-
cessary business.

A Conference was held at Eglwys-
Fach, Sunday, 19 th of May, when brother
Eobert Evans was appointed to preside
over the Carnarvonshire Conference, in-
stead of brother Thomas W. Recs, who
is now presiding over the East Glamor-
gan Conference. Brother Bywater, dur-
ing his stay at Eglwys-Fach, was safely
lodged every night in a police-station,
and was very politely told, in answer to
his inquiries, the reason why he was
sent there — because he was a Latter-
day Saint Elder ; but if he had been a
minister of any other religious sect, jio
notice would have been taken of him
whatever ; and it was furthermore told
him that if I would find my way,
or any other Latter-day Saint preacher,
to Eglwys-Fach and its vicinity,
the policeman declared that he would
treat us all in the same manner.
I am happy to say that the treat-
ment brother Bywater received there
was of the most humane kindness.
He has not informed me whether the
policeman is a member of the Church
■ or not but I am sure of one thing—if
he is not, he ought to be; for the Lord

has said, in a modern revelation, " that
by this you will lenow my disciples, for
they will feed, clothe, and give you
some money." I am well satisfied that
brother Bywater's visit through North
Wales has been very beneficial to all
the Conferences. There is a great deal
of out-door preaching, being done there
by good and efficient Elders, which I
trust ere long will result in the salvation
of many souls, and as well the condem-
nation of those that will reject the
glorious message sent to them.

Brothers Bywater and Davies are
united with me ; and through our feeble
efforts. I trust, by the aid of the Good
Spirit, that we shall be able to instil the
principles of Zion into the hearts of all
those who will receive them. The Pre-
sidents of Conferences here are also
humble, faithful, and energetic men ;
and I can't see anything in the way now
to hinder us from prospering. Several
have been baptized of late in the South ;
20 were baptized in the East Glamor-
gan Conference last month, and some in
the Monmouthshire Conference : the
exact number I have not learned. Some
were baptized last month near Swan-
sea, and one was baptized near this
town last night, who formerly be-
longed to the Church, and has done a
great deal of good. After we confirmed
him a member of Jhe Church, I felt^ to
ordain him an -Elder; and I do not re-
member that I ever felt more of the
Spirit of God in ordaining any man than
1 did in ordaining him.

The brethren are generally taking
right hold now, this fine weather, in the
out- door preaching, and hold what we
call "camp meetings," getting as many
of the Saints as can come to sing, &c.,
in order to draw the attention of the
people ; and all are acknowledging that
the singing is very good, much more so
than their old-fashioned sectarian tunes.
Some of the hearers will gather up close
to the Elders when they are preaching ;
others will peep through their windows,
or stand at their doors in the distance,
or at the corners of the streets, while
the Elders are shooting their arrows
at them, trying every time to take a
sure aim ; and I feel pretty well satisfied
that the sharp-pointed arrows of the
Almighty will pierce the hearts of the
honest seekers after truth.
I need not tell you of the poverty of

Digitized by Google

8TJMMABY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

415

the Saints, brought about in a great
measure in consequence of the present
American war ; but, under all these cir-
cumstances, they feel well and are will-
ing to do all in their power, take them

as a whole, to build up and sustain
the Church.

With kind love and esteem, I subscribe
myself your brother, &c,

Thomas E. Jeremy.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GENERAL.

The Paris papers publish news from
Naples to the 15th, stating that the towns
of Saumarco and Bignano, having risen in
insurrection, had been taken by assault by
the Italian troops. Twenty of the inhabi
tants were shot for having burned alive four
Piedmontese. Both towns were afterwards
set on fire, and the inhabitants departed
into the neighbouring villages. Immediately
after the departure of the French troops
from Syria, disturbances broke out near
Mucktara, but that they were speedily
-suppressed by Fuad Pasha. One Druse
chief was executed, which intimidated the
Druses, but retaliation was expected.

According to French despatches from
China, the long-standing revolution has
lately assumed most threatening propor-
tions. The rebels are marching on Pekin.
The Emperor is said to have fled, and the
Celestial Government has lost all prestige.
The probability of some such event was
foreshadowed in a letter dated ** Off the
Peiho, April 16," and just received in this
country. The writer states that the
rebellion, " the great bane to healthy com-
merce," makes its influence felt there, as in
almost every other district in China.

According to advices received at Madrid,
revolutionary proclamations are circulating
in Portugal, accusing the Government of in-
tending to weaken the army, with the object
of betraying the national independence.
These proclamations conclude with the words
_ 14 Saldanab for ever." The Madrid journals
of the 9th instant state that the custom-offi-
cers of Goracha, near Almeria, had seized a
number of Protestant books which some En-
glish sailors had given to workmen. The
Spanish fleet on the West India station is
about to be deprived of four screw frigates,
. which are to be sent to Algesiras ; but it will
consist of small sailing vessels and steamers
carrying altogether upwards of 150 guns, and
of the squadron formerly belonging to the
Dominican Republic.

Intelligence from Bohemia states that
the Emperor has promised to grant an
amnesty to those persons committed for
political crimes in Bohemia who should
request his Majesty's pardon.

A letter from Turin states that the
reactionary attempt in Tuscany has had the

good effect of bringing out in the strongest
relief the determination of that province not
to go back, and steadily to repudiate the
yoke of its old masters. Unfortunately,
the popular demonstration was marked by
some excesses: the mob' broke into the
office of the Leghorn journal, the Ferdicc,
and at Florence stones were thrown at tt©
windows of some houses, belonging to tie
Amtro-Papal party.

The Emperor of Russia has appointed
Prince Alexander Gortschakoff, (brother of
the late General Gortschakoff,) Minister of
Foreign Affairs, to be President of the com-
mission, entrusted with drawing up the new
laws for the kingdom of Poland. fc

Up to the end of May last, insurrections
of Russian peasants had taken place in 141
villages of Podolia, containing altogether
a population of 71,000. These disturbances,
it is said, arose from a wrong interpretation
of the Imperial ordinances.

AMERICAN.

From America we learn that a collision
between the opposing armies in Virginia oc-
curred at Phillippa on the night of June 3.
The enemy was some 2000, strong, and was
surprised in camp. Fifteen to twenty were
killed in the conflict, several prisoners were
taken, and a large quantity of arms and am-
munition, tents, &c, fell into the hands of
the Federal forces, commanded by Colonels
Kelley and Crittenden. The enemy was
completely routed, and retreated into the
interior of Virginia.

The stampede of slaves in Virginia still
continues : great numbers of this class are
flocking to General Butler's camp. They
are employed in the trenches. Advices from
Fort Monroe state that one scouting company
of Federal troops had been taken prisoners.

. Direct advices from St. Domingo continue
to show that the people of that unfortunate
country, instead of rushing with enthusiasm
into the arms of Spain, as Madrid journals
represent, are in fact in a state of insurrec-
tion ; that many patriots have been shot,
and that the prisons of the capital are
gorged with victims. The Government of
Hayti has offended the Spanish authorities
by declining to refuse shelter to the unhappy
Dominicans who are flying from the wrath or
who dread the rule of a Spanish Government.

igitized by

Google

416

VARIETIES. POETRY. ADDRESSES.

VARIETIES.

Brns and Stings. — Apply instantly, with a soft rag, most freely, spirits of hartshorn.
The venom of stings being an acid, the alkali nullifies them. Fresh wood ashes, moistened
with water and made into a poultice, frequently renewed, is an excellent substitute — or
soda or salaratus — all being alkalies.

A Traveller's Name. — An Englishman had hired a smart travelling servant ; and,
arriving at an inn one evening, knowing well the stringency of police regulations in
Austria, where he was, he called for the usual register of travellers, that he might duly
describe himself therein. His servant replied that he had anticipated his wishes, and had
registered him in full form — " English gentleman of independent property." " But how
have you put down my name P I have not told it to you. M . " I can't exactly pronounce
it, sir, but I copied it faithfully from your portmanteau." " But it is not there. Bring
me the book." What was his amazement at finding, instead of a very plain English name
of two syllables, the following portentous entry of himself—" Monsieur Warrantedsolid-
leather."

Flies on Picture Frames. — There is no better preventative of flies soiling gilt frames
than by covering them with gauze. It must be admitted, however, that many persons
prefer leaving the frames exposed rather than hiding them under the usual gauze covering.
As at present made, the fabric is woven much closer than is necessary. The finest and
most open-work gossamer that could be woven would prove effectual in preventing flies
settling near any object that was covered with it. A fly s instinct prevents its going near
a cobweb. By weaving the gauze as fine and as much to resemble a spider's web as
possible, it would prevent all the evil the housewife dreads, and at the same time would
not hide any of tlje beauty of the gilt and carved frames.

POETRY.

THE CALL OF THE PRIESTHOOD.
[Tints—** Cone, ail ye Sons of Ood."]

Arise in Jesus' name,

Ye heralds of salvation!
To all the world proclaim
This glorious dispensation—
The Gospel in its fulness given,
To lead the sons of men to heaven,
And know onr high relation
As sons of Ood.

With God's unbounded grace,
Who pities their condition,
Feel for the human race.
Fast sinking to perdition ;
For ye are called to teach the plan
Ordained to save degraded man,
And show them their position
As sons of God.

Birmingham.

The words of truth discern,l

Which Prophets are revealing !
And man to govern learn
As God with man is dealing ;
Let mercy guide your words and ways.
To feed the weak, the feeble raise,
And we'll enjoy the feeling
Of sous of God.

God's purposes with men
In majesty aro rolling.
And all things for our gain
His wisdom is controlling.
Ziou will soon in triumph rise,
And Jesus own us from the skies,
Reward our holy calling,
As sons of God.

W.G.M1U.S.

AW ^ B ^ohn^aark! m ^} Hodgson Street, Sheffield.

Charles Welch, 0, Walker's Square, 8ykes Street, HulL

CONTENTS.

ThaTFuture Abode of the Righteous ~. 401 Adams, Mills, and James S. Brown.— Wales :

The "Helping Hand.. M 40J Letter from Elder Jeremy - 411

Opinions of the Press 401 Summary of News and Passing Events 41i

History of Joseph Smith....- 405 Varieties .. _ 4 If

Editorial.— Prophecy and its Fulfilment — A Strik- Poetry.— " The Call of the Priesthood 4 If

ing Illustration.— News from Home 408 Addresses 4 If

Correspondence.-- England : Letters from Elders

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, ft, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOB SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 80, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

Google

• • THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAE.

A noise shall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controvert with the nations: hewfU
plead with all flesh; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the ZOrd"— Jkmioah.

No. 27, Vol. XXIH.

Saturday, July 6, 1861.

Price One Fenny.

A LIVING TESTIMONY.

BY ELDER THOMAS CRAWLEY.

As soon as the Prophet Joseph Smith
lifted up his voice and testmed that
God had made known unto him the
ancient Gospel, with ail its attendant
blessings and powers, then the unbe-
lievers among mankind demanded from
him a miracle, or some outward sign,
in order to make them believe. And
although some of the most mighty

'miraculous manifestations that have
evit been witnessed have taken place in
this generation, (not, however, to satisfy
the caprice of those who looked for them,
but to bless and comfort the believers,)
yet, I would ask, how many have there
Deen convinced of and led forth to obey
the Gospel by such evidence alone ?

There must be something more than
what is called " ocular" demonstration

*to produce that knowledge within, so
necessary to enable one to bear the
scoffs and frowns of men, to suffer
hunger and thirst and nakedness, to be
driven from place to place like a bird
upon the mountains, and to have every
reeling of the heart tried — tried to the
very centre. Such has ever been the
lot of those who have been the followers
pf the meek and lowly Jesus. "My

fc people shall be a tried people," saith the
Lora. . One must have more than
this before he can pass through the
fiery ordeal and come out like pure gold

well refined; and he requires more
than this to convince him of the truths
of the Gospel, without which such
evidence would be no evidence to him,
comparatively speaking. Hence, when
the children of Israel saw the cloud by
day tfnd the pillar of fire by night
resting over tneir camp — when they
saw Moses smite the barren rock and
bring forth water — when they were fed
with manna from heaven to save them
from perishing in the wilderness, — after
seeing such powerful manifestations of
the power of God, yet they could with
the greatest boldness make to themselves
gods of brass and worship them ! And
why so P Because they were destitute
of a living testimony, without which
all other manifestations are of none
effect. >

And when the Jews saw the* Son of
God feed five thousand with a few loaves
and fishes, and impart sight to the
blind, hearing to the deaf, strength to
the lame, life to the dead, and cast out
demons from the human system,
they imputed it all to the Devil, while
his weak and humble followers (those
who had within themselves the living
testimony,) were filled with joy unspeak-
able.

Tf Mokcb, when sent into Egypt to
deliver the children of Israel from

Digitized by'

Google

418

A LIVING TESTIMONY.

slavery, had had no other evidence than
some outward sign that he had been
sent of God, then it. would have been
very difficult for him to have known
but that the magicians of that country
had been sent of God also. But because
he had heard the voice of the Almighty
— because he had within himself the
living testimony, ho knew that they
were not the servants of God; for
they were opposing his work, and trying
to hinder his servants from accomplish-
ing his designs and intentions. And
many extraordinary events of a similar
nature will transpire in our day, and
tens of thousands will reject the truth
and follow after those strange delusions,
believing them to be the " great power
of God." But those who will hold fast
to the truth, living prayerful before the
Lord, praying that they may ** endure
to the end," when Christ shall come
to save the oppressed and deliver the
captive soul, will receive a " crown of
life which fadeth pot away."

If, then, this powerful assurance — this
living testimony, which arms the soul
against every foe, is of such value,
perhaps the reader may not be in
possession thereof, and may therefore

inquire, 44 How can I obtain this abiding
witness P" Let the Son of God answer :
14 If any man will do his (the Father's)
will, he shall know of the doctrine,
whether it be of God or whether I speak
of myself." (Johnvii. 17.) Whatisthe
44 will of God P" I answer, For every
soul, for every son and daughter of
Adam, to have fHith in him, to repent
of their sins, to be baptized in water
'for the remission of them by one
having the authority of the holy Priest-
hood; after which, to have the hands
of the Elders of the Church of Christ
placed upon their heads for the reception
of the Holy Ghost. (See Heb. xi. 6.;
Luke xiii. 3. ; Acts ii. 38 ; viii. 17, 19.)

This is the Gospel as it was preached
in all ages of the world whenever God
had a people upon the earth. This is
the plan of salvation by which all must
be saved, whoever are saved, and through
which all can obtain for themselves a
knowledge that they are the chosen of
the Lord.

Come, then, ye who wander in search
of truth : here is the 44 bread of life,"
which, if ye eat thereof, ye shall 41 live
for ever."

THE GOSIEL VERgUS CREEDS OP MEN.

UY ELDER JOIIX MILLER.

As 4 * Mormonism " at the present
time is occupying the attention of a con-
siderable portion of mankind, in conse-
quence of the emigration in great
numbers of its votaries from almost all
parts of the world, a few words upon
the system that produces such great and
marvellous results may not be out of
place.

44 Mormonism," as known to a great
many who are ignorant concerning its
principles, is suggestive of everything
that is bad. Its followers are thought to
be the outcasts of society, and scarcely
worthy to be placed on a par with civil-
ized people.

But were all who have these ideas
to thoroughly investigate its principles
with unprejudiced minds, and compare
them with the Scriptures and reason,
they would probably come to a different
conclusion.

In this article I shall endeavour to
show the results following the Gospel in
ancient days, and also the results fol-
lowing Christianity and 4i Mormonism "
(or the Gospel of Jesus Christ) in the
latter days. On perusing the Scriptures,
we find that Jesus Christ and his Apos-
tles advocated direct communication
with heaven. In those days angels de- 5
scended from the realms of glory and
revealed to mankind the will of Ged, and
also future events, thereby enabling
them to see things which were to take
place in ages to come. In their writings
many great and glorious events are pre-
dicted, some of which are actually tran-
spiring at the present time.

The Priesthood of God em braced in
the Gospel was also upon the earth, with ,
all its gifts and blessings ; and men who
held a portion of that Priesthood and
enjoyed the power thereof could, by the

Digitized by

THE GOSPEL V.

imposition of hands upon the sick, heal
them of the infirmities under which
they laboured. Yet, although miracles
"were wrought, the sick healed, and the
power of God manifested in various ways,
to the truth of which thousands testified,
the world would not then admit that
the work was of God, but declared that
Jesus Christ and his Apostles were im-
postors, and that the system which they
taught emanated from the Devil.

Presont Christianity professes to be
the samo Gospel that Jesus taught. But
does Christianity, so-called, enjoy the
life-givingpowers of the Gospel as did the
ancient Saints P No; far from it. Which
denomination now enjoys the gifts of
tongues, healings, or prophecies, which
ancient Saints rejoiced in ? Or, out of
all the sects and parties, which one has
the Priesthood to whom God reveals his
mind and will P

Alas, for mankind, they do not un-
derstand their position, but have wan-
dered from the true and living God, and
have made unto themselves systems
which are powerless to save, or to sweep
corruption and wickedness from the
earth.

Truly, the proph«cy of Isaiah is veri-
4ed where he says, *• Darkness shall
cover the earth, and gross darkness the
people."

What a contrast do we find between
the principles of primitive and modern
Christianity ! The principles of the for-
mer were too simple,and its requirements
too humble for the proud, high-minded,
and affluent of the day to embrace. They
scouted the idea of going down into the
water and being baptized for the re-
mission of their sins, by a humble ser-
Tant of God. Those who preached the

CBEEDS OF MEN. 419

Gospel in the days of Jesus wandered
from place to place without purse or
scrip, or with scarcely sufficient food to
eat. They were persecuted and driven
from city to city, and also murdered and
tortured in almost every conceivable
way, until finally the Lord took the
Gospel from the earth, and men were
left to wander in ignorance and dark-
ness, without the voice of God to teach
them.

But the Gospel is again restored, and
the Priesthood, with all its gifts and
blessings, is again enjoyed by men ; to
the truth of which thousands are testi-
fying daily ; and hundreds and thousands
are emigrating from Babylo/i according
to the dictates of that Priesthood, realiz-
ing that the judgments of God are
about to be poured out upon the nations
of the earth. But although the king-
dom of God has so rapidly advanced in
strength and power, it has not risen to
its present position without passing
through a great deal of opposition from
surrounding parties and influences. An
old adage says, " Like causes produce
like effects ;" so the same cause which
brought persecution upon former-day
Saints has in like manner brought it
upon the Saints of the present day ; and
we can say, If those of former days were
robbed and persecuted for the truth's
sake, so have we. If Paul went in fear
of his life, so the same has been the case
with Elders in this Church.

But the Latter-day Church will not,
like the former, be overcome. It will roll
on, as the Prophet Daniel predicts, until
it fills the whole earth ; for the time is'
drawing near at hand when every knee
will have to bow and every tongue con-
fess to the true and living God.

ADDRESS TO THE YOUNG SISTERS.

BY VICTORIA PE6G.

"Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers ; for what communion bath light with darkness?"

Dear Sisters, — The above is a most
important injunction, and cannot be too
deeply considered by every Latter-day
Saint, and especially by the daughters
of Zion, to whom may shortly be com-
mitted the honourable task to " rear the
tender mind, and teach the young idea

how to shoot." We ought to be con-
tinually striving to vie with each other
in seeing who can set the best example,
and to duly ponder over these things, in-
stead of tilling our minds with the vapid
nonsenneof this generation. Have we not
all received the same Gospel ? Then let us

420

HISTOBY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

show daily that we are indeed worthy
of the exalted title of daughters of our
Heavenly Father. If we do not neglect,
even when no mortal eye can see us, to
pour out our hearts in secret before our
Father in heaven, beseeching him to
bless us with wisdom daily, — think you
he will allow us to suffer our affections
to be centred for one moment on the sons
of Babylon, who hate his people and
despise his laws, and yet at the same time
profess to love one who has for ever
identified herself with his covenant-
people P No ; this will never be the case, if
we are diligent in our duties. The Lord
has ever, when he had a people, been
jealous over them in this particular.
Even, in the days of ancient Israel, he
said, "Suffer not your daughters to marry
with their sons and many have been
the evils, too numerous to be cited here,
which have transpired, when they have
slighted this commandment.

The Saints in the days of Paul were
commanded to marry whom they would,
"only in the Lord. 1 ' What advantages
can be derived by slighting this com-
mandment P I cannot name one ! On
the contrary, there is lasting happiness
to be derived from being continually in
the society of a true Saint of God. No
matter what may be his daily occu-
pation, if he is ambitious to be true to
nis calling as a Saint of God, the Lord
will bless trim and those who are united
with him. HappUy, the time is not far
distant (and even now has commenced,)
when the daughters of Zion will be dis-
tinguished, not particularly for their

beauty or fine apparel, but for the su-
perior beautied of their minds ; for, like
a well of water, which is ever springing
up, but never exhausted, so will be their
wisdom, ever on the Increase ; also for
their meek and quiet conversation, and
the order and peace which prevail in
their habitations.

These things should ever, while we
contemplate them, stir us up to greater
diligence ; for by observing our domestic
duties now, and by continually culti-
vating our minds, with the assistance of
our Heavenly Father, we shall be con-
tinually proving ourselves worthy to
associate eternally with those who will
be kings and saviours on Mount Zion.
It is true we have our trials. Every one
who is worth calling a Saint has had
them before us, up to the best in this
kingdom. But let them be only trials ; for
" if we faint in the day of adversity, our
strength is small." Thus, by honouring
our callings, the wise and truly good
will be happy in our society, and we
shall be surrounded by a holy influence
which will strike awe in the hearts of
the wicked. The faithful sons of God
will know that though we have been un-
noticed by the great ones of the earth,
if we continue onward in serving our
God, the time is not far distant
when celestial crowns will be placed on
our heads, and a kingdom far superior
to that of any earthly queen will be
given us to inherit.

For there are crowns and thrones on high,
And kingdoms too to "be conferred :
There honours wait that never die-
There fame's immortal tramp is heard.

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 408.)

Friday, 3."— At home giving advice to
brethren who were constantly calling to
ask for counsel. Several thunder
showers during the day.

In General Council from 2 to 6, and
from 8 to 10 p.m. Lucien Wordworth
gave an account of his mission*

Wrote a letter to Uncle John Smith,
and requested him to attend General
Council next Monday.

The following letter was written : —
"Nauvoo, May 3rd, 1844.

Elder Reuben Hedlock,

Dear Brother,— Your long communica*

tion hy Elder Kay was received two weeks
last Saturday, also the one hy Elder Clark
last Saturday, and we feel to thank you for
the care you have taken to write us so par-
ticularly. We are glad to receive such
communications, and wish you to continue
the same course as opportunities present.
The brethren have all had good passages
(four ships). Elder Clark was only five
weeks and three days to New Orleans. All
things safe.

All things are going on gloriously at
Nauvoo. We shall make a great wake in
the nation. Joseph for President. Tour
family is well, and friends generally. We

Digitized by VjOOg IC

HISTORY OP JOSKPH SMITH.

421

have already received several hundred
volunteers to go oat electioneering and
preaching, and more offering. Wc go for
storming the nation. But we must proceed
to realities.

The whisperings of the Spirit to us are
that you do well to content yourself awhile
longer in old England, and \et your wife
remain where she is. We hope the Temple
may be completed, say one year from this
spring, when in many respects changes will
take place. Until then, who can do better
in England than yourself P But we will not
leave you comfortless ; we will send Elders
to your assistance. For three or four
months we want all the help we can get in-
the United States; after which you may
expect help.

In the meantime you are at liberty to
print as many Stars, pamphlets, hymn-
books, tracts, cards, fee., as you can sell ;
and make all the money you can in right-
eousness. Don't reprint everythiny you
get from Nauvoo. Many things are printed
here not best to circulate in England.
Select and write doctrine, and matter (new)
such as will be useful to the Saints in
England and new to us ; so that when we
exchange papers all will be edified. God
shall give you wisdom, if you will seek to
liim, and youNhall prosper in your printing.

We also wish you to unfurl your flag on
your shipping-office, and send all the Saints
you can to New York, or Boston, or Phila-
delphia, or any other port in the United
States, but not at our expense any longer.
"We have need of something to sustain us in
our labours, and we want you to go ahead
with printing and shipping, and make
enough to support yourself and help us a bit.
You will doubtless find it necessary to
employ brother Ward. Keep your books
straight, so that we in the end can know
every particular.

Ship everybody to America you can get
the money for — Saint and sinner — a general
shipping-office. And we would like to have
our shipping agent in Liverpool sleep on as
good abed, eat at as respectable a house,
keep as genteel an office, and have his boots
shine as bright and blacked as often as any
other office-keeper. Yes, sir; make you
money enough to wear a good broadcloth,
and show the world that you represent
gentlemen of worth, character, and respecta-
bility.

We will by-and-by have offices from the
rivers to the ends of the earth, and we will
begin at Liverpool from this time and
increase and increase and INCREASE
the business of the office as fast as it can be
done in safety and circumstances will
permit. Employ a runner, if necessary, and
show the world you can do a better and more

honourable business than anybody else, and
more of it. Don't be afraid to blow your
trumpet.

We need not say, Deal with everybody so
that theyjjoill want to deal with you again,
and make all the money you honestly can.
Send no more Emigrants on emigration,
books, or Star money. Temple orders for
emigrants may" be filled on Temple Funds.
Keep accou£f of all moneys in their separate
departments, and favour us with a report
occasionally.

Sell the Books of Mormon the first oppor-
tunity, if it be at a reduced price* and
forward the money by the first safe
conveyance to Brigham Young.

We will pay your wife, as you requested
in your letter, as soon as possible. We
wish you to take care of yourself and family,
and withal help us besides ; and we have
now put you in possession of means to do it.

Let nobody know your business but the
underwriters. Our wives know not all our
business, neither does any wise man's wife
know all things, for the secret of the Lord
is with those that fear him and do his
business. A hint to the wise is sufficient.
But we will add, If you want us to do
anything for your wife, write us, and we will
do it ; but keep our business from your wife
and from everybody else.

We are glad to hear a door is open in
France, and sure we have no objections to
your going over and preaching, &c. ; but
we think perhaps you will find as much to
do in England as you can find time to do it
in : if not, go by all means. We are in
hopes of sending a special messenger to
France in a few days . if so, very likely ha
may call on you, and you pass over and give
him an introduction : this would be pleasant
for you all.

Brother Hedlock, a word with you
privately. Joseph said, last Conference, that
Zion included all North and South America ;
and after the Temple was done, and the
Elders endowed, they would spread abroad
and build up cities all over the United
States : but at present we are not to teach
this doctrine. Nay, hold your tongue.
But by this you can see why it is wisdom
for the Saints to get into the United States —
anywhere, rather than stay in England to
starve.

The Prophet has a charter for a dam from
the lower line of the city to the island
opposite Montrose, and from thence to the
sand-bar above in the Mississippi. Could
five, six, or seven thousand dollars be raised
to commence the dam at the lower extremity,
and erect a building, any machinery might
be propelled by water. The value of a
steam-engine would nearly build the dam
sufficient for a cotton -factory, which we

Digitized by

422

HI8T0ILY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

much need. Start some capitalists, if you
can : 'tis the greatest speculation in the
world a world ot cotton and woollen goods
are wanted here.

We have proposed to brother Clark to
return to your assistance in the shipping
business soon ; also to enter into exchanges
of goods and produce. Which he will do, he
has not decided. What will hinder your
doing a good business in shipping this
season ? Good P Yes, in competing with
the first offices in the city, and by next
season taking the lead, if not this ! When
the Saints get to New York, Boston, &c,
let them go to work, spread abroad in the
land, or come to Nauvoo, as they find con-
venient and have means, and, when the
season arrives, start again for New Orleans.
Write soon after the receipt of this, and let
us know the prospect.

Tell the Saints, when they arrive in
America, to make themselves as comfortable
as they can, and be diligent in business,
and not be over-anxious if they cannot come
to Nauvoo. They will find Elders in all
the States who will be ready to grve them
instruction ; and if they can gather something
by the way by their industry to assist
themselves with when they arrive here, it
will be well for them.

We have dropped the Nauvoo House until
the Temple can be completed, and the
Temple is going on finely. We have had
an open winter and forward spring. The
Twelve are holding General Conferences all
over the United States. They will go east
soon, and brother Young will write to you
as soon as he gets the information to tell
what house you can remit the book-money
to in New York.

We shall have a State Convention at
Nauvoo on the 17th inst.,— an election. A
great many are believing the doctrine. If
any of the brethren wish to go to Texas, we
have no particular objection. You may send
a hundred thousand there, if you can, in
eighteen months, though we expect before
that you will return to receive your endow-
ment ; and then we will consult your interest,
with others who may be going abroad, about
taking their families with them.

The kingdom is organized ; and, although
as yet no bigger than a grain of mustard
seed, the little plant is* in a flourishing
condition, and our prospects brighter than
ever. Cousin Lemuel is very friendly, and
cultivating the spirit of peace and union in
his family very extensively.

William and Wilson Law, E. D. Foster,
C. L. and F. Higbee, Father Cowles, &c,
have organized a new church. [Laws
and Fosters were first cut off.] William
Law is Pr ophet ; James Blalcesley and
Cowles, Counsellors ; Higbee and Foster, of

the Twelve. Cannot learn all particulars.
Charles Ivins, Bishop ; old Dr. Green and
old John Scott, his Counsellors. They are
talking of sending a mission to England ;
but it will probably be after this when they
tome among you. 'Tis the same old story
over again — * The doctrine is right, but
Joseph is a fallen Prophet.' Your brethren
in the new covenant,

Brigham Young,
Willard Richards."

Elder Parley P. Pratt wrote from
Richmond, Mans , as follows: —

" Dear Brother Joseph and Brother Orson
Spencer, or whom it may concern, — This is
to forewarn you that you have a snake in
the grass — a base traitor and hypocrite in
your midst, of whom perhaps you may not
be fully aware. You may think these
harsh terms, but I speak from good evidence
and speak the truth.

Mr. Augustin Spencer, brother to Elder
Orson Spencer, has written a letter from
Nauvoo, which is now going the rounds in
this neighbourhood, and is fraught with the
most infamous slander and lies concerning
Joseph Smith and others, and which is
calculated to embitter the minds of the
people who read or hear of iL It affirms
that Joseph Smith is in the habit of drinking,
swearing, carousing, dancing all night, &c.,
&c. ; and that he keeps six or seven young"
females as wives, &c, and many other such
like insinuations.

At the same time he cautions £ne people
to whom he writes to keep the letter in
such a way that a knowledge of its contents
may not reach Nauvoo, as he says he is on
intimate terms and confidential friendship
with the ' Prophet Joe' and the Mormons,
and that he hopes td get into office by their
means. This is his own acknowledgment of
his own baseness, imposition, and hypocrisy.
I have not seen the letter myself, but have
carefully examined the testimony of those
who have, and I have also seen and
witnessed its baneful effects upon the people

ere.

Now, I say to the Saints, Let such a man
alone severely ; shun him as you would the
pestilence; be not deceived by a smooth
tongue or nattering words ; neither accept of
any excuse or apology until he boldly con-
tradicts and counteracts his lying worde
abroad ; but rather expose, and unmade him in
your midst, that he may be known and conse-
quently become powerless, if he is not
already so. I am well and expect to be in
Boston to-morrow.

I remain, as ever, your friend and brother
in the love of the truth,

P. P. Pratt."
Richmond, Mass., May 3rd, 1844."
Saturday, 4. — Bode out on the prairie

Digitized by

HISTORY 0» JOSEPH SMITH.

423

to sell some land. The stone-work for
ftfur circular windows finished cutting
for the middle story of the Temple.
Elder W. Woodruff moved into his new
brick house.

A court-martial was detailed as
follows : —

44 Headquarters, Nauvoo Legion,
May 4th, 1844.
To Alanson Ripley, Sergeant-Major, 2nd
Cohort, Nauvoo Legion : —
You are hereby forth witn commanded to
notify the following-named officers of the
Nauvoo Legion to assemble at the office of
Lieut. -General Joseph Smith, on Friday,
the lOih inst., at nine o'clock, a.m., as
members of a court-martial detailed for the
trial of R. D. Foster, Surgeon -in-Chief,
and Brevet Brigadier- General of the
Nauvoo Legion, on the complaint of Lieut.
Aaron Johnson, for unomcer-like and
unbecoming conduct; and hereof fail not,
and make returns of your proceeding to the
President of the Court on the first day of its
sitting — viz.,
Brig. -Gen. George Miller as President ;
Brevet Brig.-Gen. Hugh McFall,

Daniel H. Wells,
„ „ John S. Fullmer,
Colonel Jonathan Dunham,
,, Stephen Markham,
,, Hosea Stout,
„ John Scott,
Lieut. -Colonel John D. Parker,
„ „ Jonathan H. Hale,
„ ,, Theodore Turley,
as members ; and Colonel John Taylor as
Judge- Advocate. Also to summons Willard
Richards and Aaron Johnson to appear at
the same time and place as witnesses.

Given under my hand the day and yeai
above written,

Charles C. Rich,
Major-General N. L., Commanding."
Dr. Richards wrote a letter, at Presi-
dent B. Young's request, to Reuben
Hedlock.

Sunday, 5. — At home. Rainy day.
Elder Jedediah M. Grant preached at
the Mansion at 2 p.m. A large company
of friends at my house afternoon and
evening, whom I addressed on the true
policy of this people in our intercourse
with the National Government.

A Conference was held at Marsh Hill,
(formerly Froom's Hill, ^England, com-
prising 681 members, 22 Elders, 43
Priests, 15 Teachers, 7 Deacons.

Monday, 6. — Attended General Coun-

cil all day. Elder J. M. Grant was
added to the Council. Voted to send
Almon W. Babbitt on a mission to
France, and Lucien Woodworth to
Texas. Sidney Rigdon was nominated
as a candidate for the Vice -Presidency
of the United States.

I had a warrant served on me by
John D. Parker, issued by the Clerk of
the Circuit Court at Carthage, on
the complaint of Francis M. Jligbee,
who had laid his damages at $5,000,
but for what the vrrit does not state ! !
I petitioned the Municipal Court for a
writ of Habeas Corpus, which I obtained.

At 6 p.m., I was in conversation with
Jeremiah Smith and a number of
gentlemen in my office on the subject
of Emma's correspondence with Gover-
nor Carlin.

Beautiful day. West wind.

Tuesday, 7. — Rode out on the prairie
at 9 a.m., with some gontlemen, to
sell them some land. A tremendous
thunder-shower in the afternoon, with
strong wind and rain, which abated
about sunset, and I stayed at my farm
all night.

Esquire Daniel H. Wells issued a 1
writ of ejectment against all persons
who had bought land of R. D. Foster
on the block east of the Temple, Foster
having given them warranty deeds, but
not having paid for the land himself.

An opposition printing-press arrived
at Dr. Foster's.

The following notice was issued by
the Recorder : —
44 State of Illinois, )
City of Nauvno. )
To the Marshal of the said city, greeting :
You are hereby required to notify
Phinehas Richards, Edward Hunter, and
Levi Richards, that they have been elected
members of the City Council of saidciy;
and Elias Smith, that he has been elected
Alderman of said city by said City Counjil ;
and the said Councillors and Alderman and
Gustavus Hills, are required to ajpeir,
receive their oath of ofhee, and take seats
in said Council on Saturday the 8th June,
1844, at 10 o'clock a.m., at the Council
Chamber. By order of the Council.

Witness my hand and Corpora-
tion seal this 7th May, 1844,
W. Richards,

Recorder.

{L.S.}

(To b« continued.)

Three things to be avoided in poetry— 'the mean,' the obscure, and the extravagant*

Digitized by Google

424

EDITORIAL.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, July 6, 1861.

CONTRACTED IDEAS— EXTREMES TO BE AVOIDED.

There is a disposition evinced in -many individuals to follow up some favourite
idea or some particular theory, and stretch it to undue bounds, attaching to it an
importance far beyond what it is legitimately entitled to. A glance at some of
the various hobbies which different sections of society ride with untiring assiduity
amply illustrates this trait in the human character. Some men look upon intem-
perance, with its attendant train of squalor, misery, and wretchedness, as the f
prolific source of all the evils which afflict society ; and, with a laudable desire to
ameliorate the condition of their fellow-beings, zealously labour to eradicate it,
believing that by so doing^-they will entirely emancipate mankind from tfieir
presen degraded condition. Others, believing that war is the great parent of
misery, assiduously advocate the formationof Peace Societies and an Arbitration
Congress. Many thousands of well-meaning individuals believe that the
dissemination of the Bible and"pious tracts will renovate society, while Bible
Societies, Tract Societies, and other kindred institutions, sustained by liberal and
continued donations, attest their Jfaith in and devotion to their favourite idea.
Some, again, look upon the use of animal food as a portion of diet, with absolute
abhorrence, and denounce any departure from strict vegetarianism as highly
culpable, while others have the idea that unbolted flour is better than bolted
flour, and attach considerable^ importance to the manner in which wheat is
prepared for bread. Many strenuously maintain the great medicinal superiority
of herbal above mineral preparations, and others advocate the administration of
medicine in infinitessimal doses, contending earnestly for the real or supposed
virtues of homeopathy.

These and many other hobbies have been ridden to death by well-meaning, but
one-idea'd individuals, each one believing that his own peculiar and favourite
theory contained a panacea for all the ills that flesh is heir to, and endeavouring
with intense earnestness* and zeal to fasten it upon others by every energy he
possessed and means at his command.

The Gospel has been revealed to elevateus above these narrow, contracted
notions, and teaches us that] one truth is not entitled to such paramount
importance above another, but is chiefly valuable by its connection with kindred
truths, all blending intbjjeach other, and forming a whole calculated to exalt man
in every condition of existence. Still many men, who have had sufficient oppor-
tunities in the Church to obtain a more] liberal and extended understanding of
the truth, permit themselves to be governed Jby this one-sided principle, and,
seizing upon some favourite doctrine, make it their hobby, and invest it with
all the importance due to the entire scheme of salvation, g sfcaga&~ JLa ^

Digitized by

Google

EDITORIAL.

425

Doubtless, this has been more prevalent in times past than at present ; yet the
disposition to measure men by individual standards of excellence and their strict
adherence to particular principles still exists, and requires to be carefully
guarded against.

The 44 Word of Wisdom" is a revelation from heaven, fraught with blessings to
those who appreciate and apply its inculcations. That is no reason, however,
why it should be enforced with strictness, while other principles of equal or greater
importance receive but a secondary consideration, or are altogether neglected.
Tithing is equally a law of God with any other which the Lord has been pleased
to reveal ; yet obedience to it alone will not secure salvation ; neither does salva-
tion consist in obedience to any one principle of the Gospel, but in an under-
standing and application of all its principles as they are revealed unto us for our
obedience. Yet there have been instances where men have chosen these and
other principles, and have ridden them as hobbies, till the minds of many have
been alienated from the work through undue severity, who, if they had had a
more liberal and charitable policy extended towards them, might, have grown in
the knowledge of the truth to perceive the importance of the principles against
which they rebelled. The pursuit of an illiberal policy of this kind leads to a
mental despotism, against which men of free and independent minds, extended
views, and liberal thoughts often rebel, and suffer themselves thereby to be se-
vered from the Church rather than submit to what they consider a contracted
spirit of coercion ; while there are others, who, through their love for the truth
and their respect for the Priesthood, will bear almost anything rather than forfeit
their position as Saints.

Instead of the presiding Elders resorting to extreme measures and cutting
persons off, as has sometimes been the case in times past, when they are not dis-
posed to come up to their standard in all the minor duties of a Saint, let them be
taught principle and shown the advantages of a perfect observance of all the
counsel and laws of God. The Priesthood are sent forth as saviours of men, and
it devolves upon every one who is called to minister among the people to divest
himself of illiberal and contracted ideas, and to teach the great truths of salvation
whereby man can be made free, ever pursuing a course to win the love and con-
fidence of the honest among men, and dealing by them in a spirit of charity and
kindness.

Individuals' standings have in many instances been measured by their obedience
to some particular principle, and their positions in the Church imperilled by not
abiding in its strictness, — a doctrine more zealously tnan wisely taught : yet men
are not all constituted alike, do not look alike, and cannot see alike in their
present condition ; but the nearer they approach to that condition of perfection
when they can 44 seo eye to eye," and understand alike the principles of eternal
truth, the closer they approximate to God. Hence, to be effective ministers of
salvation, the Priesthood ought continually to keep in their minds, and teach,
by precept and example, the importance of all the principles of truth with which
they have become acquainted, ever carefully avoiding extremes, that the Saints
may increase in knowledge and understanding and power before God.

Men who are called to hold positions of authority in the Branches as a local
Priesthood, and who aro continually thrown among the Saints, as well as those
who preside over them, should ever make it their study to foster this spirit in
themselves and the people among whom they labour. If they wish to see the

Digitized by Google

426 DETERMINATION.

Saints patting in practice all the counsels of the Lord through his servants, let
them teach them in love, and not enforce them in harshness. By a laxity
in principles of importance, they often permit evils to cre?p into the midst
of the people which grieve the Holy Spirit and enarvate ths faith of the
Saints, while by intolerance in other matters they are as liable, to alienate
from them the affections of those whose confidence it should be their study to
retain, thereby proportionately weakening their influence to do good. And
if they permit that hobby-riding spirit, so dominant in the world, to govern
them, intelligent men and women will be repelled, instead of attracted by the
influence which accompanies them ; whereas liberal views and charitable teachings
in consonance with the spirit of the Gospel will possess an irresistible charm
for all who love freedom of thought and purity of life.

DETERMINATION.

The Saints, and indeed all mankind,
for the most part, do not succeed in
their endeavours, because they do not
persevere with tenacity, — because they
do not will with a resolute mind. It
is not in ability they fail, but in that
firm determination, that vigorous per-
severance, which is the one virtue
requisite for the perfection of all other
virtues.

How oft do the Saints experience the
truth of this ! When in their meetings,
and having the Spirit of God in their
midst, what determinations they make !
"What firm resolutions and hopes they
entertain ! Yet, when meeting is over,
and after the lapse of a few hours, how
many break those firm determinations
and resolutions which they made ! How
many desist from persevering with the
vigour and resolution with which they
began !

No great work, no lofty deed, can
ever be expected from those cold,
undecided characters who will and will
not — who never know what they desire.
No great thing can be expected from
those characters who make good deter-
minations — firm resolutions, and who
after a short time give way before the
opposing power of evil, and who there-
fore cannot be said to have any will.
Then the propitious opportunity is lost,
and courage fails. They inspire no
confidence, gain no influence over others,
and have no control over events.

The Saints, young and old, wish to
emigrate. How often, when looking
around them and perceiving the diffi-

culties which- are steadily creeping
around them, they make firm determina-
tions to contrive to get together the
means necessary for them to make
thuir exit from this land ! How many,
•when thinking upon their past conduct,
determine to attend their meetings
better, and in every way do their duties
more than they have dono ; and yet, after
all this, they fail ! Why is this ? Dear
reader, let the still small voice within
you give the answer, and see if it does
not say, I have not willed strong enough ;
I have not persevered so tenaciously
as I could have done. How many, after
repeatedly determining to do well,
having let all their determinations fall
to the ground, settle down in despon-
dency and say, "It is of no use my
trying to do right !" and then sink into
a state of lethargy and carelessness.
They lose an interest in their meetings,
in their every duty, in their salvation,
and finally sink into apostacy.

But the Saints can, in the course of
life, accomplish immense undertakings
and surmount all difficulties, if they
only possess the lever of a strong inflex-
ible will to turn aside the obstacles
which obstruct their path. Let it be
clearly understood, however, what is
meant by will. It is a willing with our
whole strength and soul — a concentra-
tion of our thoughts — a fixed, invariable
aim at one mark — an undeviating
adherence to the path which we have
chosen.

0.8.

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE .

427

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.

New York, June 7, 1861.
Dear Brother Cannon.

I have received a letter from brother
C. V. Spencer from Florence, stating
that he arrived there safe with his com-
pany after nine days travel from New
York. The second company (of ship
Underwriter), in brother Andrus' charge,
started from here on the 23rd of May ;
and next Tuesday, June 11th,. I expect
to start with the New York, Williams-
burg, Boston, and Philadelphia Saints.

The day before yesterday I baptized
four persons, making now twelve m all
that I have baptized since last October ;
eo you see that the Lord has given me
joy in my labours amongst the Germans
in this city. Nearly all of these, to-
gether with thirty- six Swiss Saints,
over whom I have been presiding, will
leave with me next Tuesday for Zion.

Business here, as well as throughout
the country, is at a standstill, and all
business men admit that no crisis ever
prostrated trade so completely as the

S resent. All these troubles, however,
ave no tendency to bring the people to
repentance. On the contrary, they
seem to shut their hearts against the
truth, and allow the spirit of contention to
increase within them, making men rush
to war, the cause and the consequences
of which they do not understand.

Time obliges me to close. Please
give my best wishes to brothers Rich
and Lyman. Your friend and brother
in the Gospel,

B. H. SCHETTLER.

SCOTLAND.

Edinburgh, June 28, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Sir, — Since I last wrote you, I
have been in the Dundee Conference with
Elder Baxter. We had a good time
together. He is feeling well and labour-
ing with success. His field of labour is
large, but the labourers are fow ; those
that are proficient (and they are not a
few,) are either married or are giving in
marriage, just as the Saviour said they
would be at his second coming. Many
have forgotten (if they ever knew) that

they have to seek first the kingdom of
God and his righteousness, if they would
be happy in the possession of a wife
or anything else. When Solomon had
drank in of the spirit of the world to his
heart's content, he found it was all
" vanity and vexation of spirit." O
that men could only profit by the expe-
rience of others ! 44 It would from many
a blunder free them, and foolish notion."
But I expect we must all learn from the
things we suffer.

I would not have you infer from this
that the brethren who are entangled in
matrimonial alliances are all dead to
their duties as servants of God ! O no !
Could you see them as I do, testifying
to the truth before hundreds in the open
air, while they are filled with the spirit
of God, you would be for singing, "Scot-
land is burning," as it soon will be, if
the good work we have begun continues.
I see nothing to hinder : the work is of
God, and it will roll on until the honest
in heart are gathered ; and if we stand in
the way, it will roll over us.

Outdoor preaching is the order of the
day. In the Dundee Conference they
have large orderly meetings, and many
are investigating. The brethren in
Edinburgh are not behind any in thifc
respect; and they obtain hundreds of
anxious listeners. In Glasgow we have
been stopped by order of the city
authorities, but the people think this an
innovation on their rights, and contend
for freedom of speech. How it will ter-
minate I know not ; but we who acknow-
ledge the hand of God in all things
believe it will all work together for
good.

Believe me, as ever, doing the best
I can,

David M. Stuart.

DUNDEE CONFERENCE .

Dundee, June 19, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — It affords me much
gratification to write you at this time
respecting the field in which I have
been appointed to labour, and how we
are getting along in this far-off section
of country.

Digitized by

428

COBItESPONDENCR.

I am happy to say that the Saints
are doing about the best they know
how, and are endeavouring to live the
religion they have espoused. The Priest-
hood in general are united with me in
every effort to spread the truth. Out-
door preaching is going on vigorously
every Sunday in several large towns in
the Conference. , The people are quite
surprised when they hear a " Mormon"
Elder preach ; fior, to use their own ex-

Eression, they thought that the back-
one of " Mor monism*' was broken, and
that their ears were never more to be
saluted with the sound thereof. But
lo, and behold, to their utter astonish-
ment, it is springing up on the right
hand and on the left, dispelling their ,
thoughts like the rays of the sum, the
last tokens of a cold and dreary winter,
bidding defiance to the strong power of the
hoary frost. So we keep preaching to a
large concourse of people every Sunday,
in spite of all the calumny they heap
upon us as a people ; but it is a good
sign. "When the Devil rages, there are
sheep not far off, which makes me feel
to go ahead energetically in spreading
the truth, although in much weakness.

We had a visit from President Stuart
lately in this quarter, in whose com-
pany 1 enjoyed myself very much in-
deed ; and I feel confident that the good
and wholesome teachings he gave us
while here, with the influence he left be-
hind, will be productive of much good
and give new impetus to the work.

This Conference consists of three
Branches. There have been fourteen
adult members with their families emi-
grated this year, and in their stead
there have been added by baptism
thirty -two, and our prospects in the
future are cheering. Several strangers
are still attending our meetings.

Last Sunday, brother Samuel Ma-
thewson, who is willing to forsake all
for the Gospel's sake, was ordained and
set apart to the ministry to travel in
the Fife district. I intend taking a tour
with him the first time, and then go on
through the Edinburgh Conference,
according to the instructions of Pre-
sident Stuart.

I am happy to say all things are
moving along here as well as can be
expected. Unity and peace are on the
increase among the Saints, and it af-

fords me great "satisfaction to labour
among them from time to time.

My kind regards to /ourself and Presi-
dents Lyman and Rich. Praying God
to bless and qualify you for the arduous
duties you haveko perform, I am your
brother and rcllow-laJ^mrer in the
Gospel covenant,

William S. Baxter.

ENGLAND.

SOUTH CONFERENCE.

Bristol, June 17, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Two months ago I
was called upon to take charge of the
South Conference, which was heretofore
comprised of four districts, with a
Travelling Elder to each district. Since
the emigration, there is but one Travel-
ling Elder (Thomas Yates) in the whole
Conference.

The entire Conference, including.,,
Bristol, are but very small fragment*
of what were formerly called Branches _
A large number have emigrated since
they were first organized. These frag-
ments are thrown together into districts,
each spreading over a large region of
country. s v

The Elders, till of late, oo*W boast of
their unequalled amount of leg-service,
far outstripping the forced marches of the
armies of Napoleon or Wellington. Our
motto now is to walk less and talk more
of the work of God, wherever there is
an opening, and find souls who are
seeking for the voice of the good shep-
herd, and then administer the words of
life, instead of walking all over the
nation.

We are very desirous to obtain a re-
spectable meeting-room in Bristol, to
aid us in giving new life and energy to
the work of God ; and we mean to let no
stone remain unturned that will enhance
the growing interest of the kingdom of
God.

For a few years past, Bristol has
been the seat of an organized party of
Anti-Mormon mobocrats, backed up by
the Church of England Clergy and
Scrip ture-readers, whose foul-mouthed
breathings would discrace Billiiigsgate.
The mean, contemptible, petty tyranny
of the clergy to influence the lords of the
land and their stewards to discharge

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

429

from employment and eject from their
houses any one who has the daring im-
pudence to believe and obey the truth,
is the order of the day in this country.

Adverse circumstances have marred
our progress, in this Conference: we have,
however, baptized about 30 since Janu-
ary, and three more will be baptized this
week. We feel that better and brighter
days are at hand, and the " South'* will
be sure to 11 keep not back," while we
enjoy the Spirit of God, having the signs
of the times all around us, and our
minds increasingly fruitful in the things
of God.

With kind respects to the Presidency
of the British churches, I am your
brother in the Gospel,

R. HODGKRT.
MANCHESTER DISTRICT.

Preston, June 22, 1861.
President Gannon.

Dear Brother, — I have just arrived
here from Manchester, where I have
been labouring with brother Dame
among the Branches. Emigration is
the order of the day. Great exertions
are being made for the next cheap trip
to the Valley.

Over 50 have been baptized this year
in the Manchester Conference : 18 nave
been added to the Church there this
month, and many more have sent in
their names for baptism. Out-door

S reaching has commenced, and the
rethren are doing their best to bring
souls into the kingdom of our God.

Please give my kind regards to all
those associated with you in the Office.
Your brother in the Gospel,

John Kay.

newcastle -upon-tyne district.

Carlisle, June 25, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Having recently vi-
sited the several Branches and scattered
members of the church in the counties
of Cumberland, Northumberland, and
Durham, I thought it would not be en-
tirely uninteresting to you and the
readers of the Star to hear how the
work of God is going on in these
counties.

The Saints are unmistakably becom-
ing awake to their situation, And with
that firmness, energy, and zeal, coupled

with faith and good works, which must
inevitably, gain the victory, many are
looking forward to next spring, with
buoyant spirits and a fixed resolution
that nothing shall be lacking on their
part, as the set time for their final eman-
cipation from the multiplied miseries
of Babylon. Tfcey feel satisfied that
excuses and inactivity, of whatever na-
ture they may be, and a desire without
works, will never bring about the deli-
verance so highly prized and so much
to be desired by every true Latter-day
Saint. The Elders labouring with me
in the District are devoted ,to Zion's
cause, 'and are determined that no op-
portunity of doing good shall ex^st in
their fields of labour unimproved. Se-
veral of the loeal Elders join in the for
bour of preaching the word of life, and
their voices have Deen heard for about
two months past in out-door meetings,
which have been attended with good
success. The speakers have, up to this
time, been listened to invariably with
profound attention. The Elders are
baptizing in some of the Branches almost
every week, so that our numbers are
slowly but gradually increasing ; and
our hearts are made glad in the in-
creased love and union among the
Saints. We have the difficulties to
grapple with so common to the Saints
throughout the Mission — hard times ;
but still there appears to be a spirit of
energy, patience, and faith among the
Saints that causes them to rejoice and
feel happy in their religion. Under its
influence they live and love the Gospel
better than they have for a few years
past, and are realizing that, in order to
oe benefited by the existence of the
kingdom of God on the earth, they
must obey its mandates ; and to know
the pleasure enjoyed by those who slake
their thirst at tne river of life, they
must themselves drink at its never-fail-
ing fountain. Individually, I feel well
in the field of my labours, and I ask
God to bless my feeble efforts to aid in
the spread of righteousness on the earth,
and m the ingathering of scattered
Israel.

With prayer for Heaven's blessings to
rest richly upon the faithful everywhere,
and kind remembrance to brothers
Lyman and Rich, I snbscribe myself
yours in the Gospel of peace,

John S. Gleason.

Digitized by Google

430

SUMMARY OP JTEWS AND PASSING EVENTS

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GENERAL.

On the 21st ult., a flood of a most
disastrous character took place in the va'ley
of Greenfield, Saddleworth. There was a
fearful thunderstorm, and a jspeat quantity
of rainfeUon the moors, which have been
well drained at a comparatively recent
period. The result was that the water came
rapidly down the Chow Valley and the
Upperwood Noo < in torrents, and filled the
8' ream of the Broadwater, which speedily
overflowed its banks and inundated the
surrounding country. The mill of Messrs.
Bott mley, Gr enfield, was flooded, from
£2,000 to £3,000 damages being done.
Three * ridges, one of s one and two of wood
weredest oyed, and several per ons drowned,

A despatch from Messina states that 120
Bourbonians, having disembarked near
Syracuse, were surrounded by Italian troops
and arrested. Twenty-three of them were
shot. Tranquility now prevails.

The anthoris ition granted to the Chris-
tians of the Herzegovina to ring the bells of
their churches to announce the Divine
ceremonies has been carried into execution
since Whit^Sunday, and has produced a
very favourable impression on all the
Catholic population. This measure, as
regards the feelings of the country, is the
most important of all the concessions
made by the Porte. The elections for the
nomination of mayors have taken place in
the most orderly manner, and all the persons
elected are distinguish d fo. their moderate
opini ns. Omar Pasha has declared his
intention of ratifying the whole of them.

A letter from Pc^th, of June 21, in the
Correspondence Bullier, says, in anticipa-
tion of the refusal of the Emperor of Austria
to receive the address voted by the Lower
Chamber — " Discouragement is general.
Trade is in a state of utter stagnation. The
general opinion is that we must prepare for

rsive resistance. The Diet will probably
dissolved, and then everything will be
disorganized. The return ot foreign func-
tionaries is. looked forward to with much
apprehension ; for you must know that the
moment the de r ands of the country are
rejected ever? Hungarian functionary will
resign : that is unanimously resolved upon."

According to the latest despatches, the
whole of Russian Poland remains under mi-
litary law. The emancipation of the serfs
causes much anxiety to the Government,
Disturbances have taken place in various

Quarters of the empire; but they are not
llowed to be made known. The last advices
'rom Poland state that Prince Waldemar
'etwertynski had been arrested and sent to

the fortress of Modlin. Count Tvsvkeiwiez
has been suspended from his functions of
Marshal of the Nobility of Wilna, and the
countess, his wife, exiled, for having made a
collection for the purpose of giving an Easter
banquet to the wording classes.

A letter from Madrid, in referring to the
disturbed state of San Domingo, says that the
Spanish flag has been torn down and trampled
under foot in some of the villages, and the
enthusiastic people, who, we were lately told,
had hailed the Spanish troops as their de-
liverers from bondage, have been sabred, and
still more horribly outraged, by the Spanish
soldiers. The slaves are in all but open in-
surrection at Puerto Rico ; and should they
get the upper hand, they will probably mas-
sacre the whole white population ; and a
similar terrible retribution would inevitably
overtake the colonists in the neighbouring
island of C ba, but for the large force kept
by Spain for the support of the slave trade.

AMERICAN.

Harper's Ferry ^as been evacuated bv
the Confederates in great haste. They
attempted to destroy the railway bridge, l-ut
failed. All the Government property has
been burnt. The Confederates have aban-
doned the whole line of the Potomac, with
the intention of concentrating their
various forces at Manassas Junction. The
bridge ^ across tho river Potomac, at
Harp r's Ferry, was blown up and entirely
destroyed between four and five o'clock on
the morning of the 14th ult. All the troops
have been withdrawn from the Maryland
shore, and the town of Harper's Ferry has
been evacuated by a great bodv of the troops
recently there; but a small force still
remains. Six carloads of provisions were
destroyed to prevent their falling into the
hands of the Federalists. The bridge at
Shepherdstown was burnt on the nirfit of
the 13th ult. -

Two hundred Irish families in Alexandria
are starving, the men having been induced
to enlist in the secession army.

The Virginian Convention at Wheeling
has passed an ordinance vacating the State
offices and providing a Provisional Govern-
ment.

The Governor of Missouri has issued a
proclamation railing for 50,000 State troops
to resist the Federal usurpation. He and
the State officers have abandoned Jefferson
City, and burnt the railway bridges west of
that point, with the idea of concentrating
their forces at Arnow Rock. General Lyon,
with a large body of Federal forces, followed
them in close pursuit.

Digitized by Google

TAJtlBTIM.

431

VARIETIES.

Why is the seeing a sign a manifest token of sight P — because it is a sign you see.
The storms of adversity are wholesome, though, like sno* -storms, their drifts are not
always seen.

" Husband, I can't express my detestation of your conduct." — 44 Well, dear, I'm very
glad you can't."

An American paper says :— " Wanted, at this office, an editor who can please everybody.
Also a fr reman who can so arrange the paper as to allow every man's advertisement to
head the column."

The following notice appeared on the west end of an American meetinghouse: —
" Anybody sticking bills against this church will be prosecuted according to law or any
other nuisance."

Agentl man once asked Ihe celebrated Dr.'Abernethy if the moderate use of snuff
would injure the brain. 14 No, sir," was Abemethy's prompt reply ; 44 for no man with a
single ounce of brains would ever think of taking snuff."

A poor emaciatrd Irishman, having called in a physician as a forlorn hope, the latter
spread a huge mustard plaster and clapped it on the poor fellow's breast. Pat, with a
tearful eye, looking down upon it, said, " Docther, docther dear, it strikes me that it's a
dale of mustard for s< litt i e i/tate."

A rector, desirous of being on good terms with the Squire, never began the service till
his worship was seated. On one occasion, by inadvertence, he began to read before the
great ir an appeared — 44 When the wicked man," &c ; upon which the clerk, surprised at
this breach of good manners, jumped up and bawled out — 44 Please, ah\ he's not come
in yet."

Hearing with the Teeth and Throat. — The physical senses— hearing, seeing, feel-
ing, tasting, and smelling — are all marvellously connected with one another, so that one will
in some peculiar way play the part of the other, or without the one the other is not rendered
useless ; and this arises from the fact that we do not in reality obtain our knowledge of
outward effects by the various organs we employ to ascertain them, but by the brain. If
the nostrils are closed so as to destroy the sense of smelling, we have no taste ; rhubarb
and senna have-then no more flavour than water. If, when the eyes are closed, we press them
at the side, so as to remove the eyeball out of its natural position, we distinctly see, even in a
dark room, a ring of light. Having any doubt about the taste of anything, oui judgment
is decided by the mere smell, and thus the brain is affected aright, but not always through
the instrument or organ constructed for the purpose ; and those who are deaf with the ears
may still participate in the pleasure of sound through the teeth and throat. Hearing is
properly effected by the vibration of what is called the tympanum — a nervous fibre stretched
out like a drum-head. Now, there is a small passage extending from the ear-drum into
the throat, called the Eustachian tube. Its principal use is to carry away the natural se-
cretions from the lining of the ear cavity ; but, under certain circumstances, this tube
conveys sound to the drum. Hence, among a crowd of listeners eager to catch the voice
of a speaker, many will be observed to sit with 44 open mouth." Many persons who are
deaf may hear distinctly by placing the rim of the crown of a hat in the mouth, and hold-
ing the hollow part towards a speaker, preacher, or singer. We can also hear by means
of the teeth. Bone is very sonorous, and is an excellent conductor of sound. Sounds that
are harsh and unharmonious often set the teeth on edge, indicative of sonorous vibration.
Actual experiment proves that the teeth will convey sound to the auditory nerve. Lay a
watch upon a table, glass side downwards ; then stand so far from it that you cannot in the
ordinary way hear the ticking ; now place one end of a small stick, sav about six feet long,
upon the back of the watch, and grip the other with the teeth; with the fingers close each
ear to exclude all external noise ; the beat of the watch will then be as audible as if placed
against the ear. All other sounds can be conveyed in the same manner, no matter how long
the stick be : for instance, if one end be put upon a pianoforte in a sitting-room fi onting a
garden, and the stick be thirty feet long, extending outside the window on to a lawn, if
the instrument be ever so lightly played, the tune will - be instantly distinguished by any
person applying the teeth to the opposite end of the stick. Again, if a light bar of iron or
any other metal be suspended by a thick string held between the teeth, and then struck
with any hard substance, the soand will appear greater than by hearing with the ears.
A well-known practice with engineered when they suspect a leakage or other mischief in-
side the cylinder of a steam-engine, is to take a small piece of iron between the teeth, and
pressing it firmly against the outside of the cylinder, stop the ears with the hands, when
all that passes inside the cylinder becomes distinctly audible.

Digitized by

432 POETXtY. ^

Cure for Piles. — Take half-an-ounce of frankincense and half- an -ounce ofcommon
pitch, and place them in a tea-cup or small pot on the hob by the fire until melted : stir up
with a small piece of stick till well amalgamated. Form it into pills the size of a pen
between the thumb and forefinger during the time it is warm and soft ', and to prevent it
sticking to the fingers, have a small quantity of carbonate of magnesia close by to dip the
thumb and finger in before handling it. One pill to be taken at bed time ever)- night till
the cure is effected. The pills should be kept with a little magnesia in the box in a cool
place, to avoid adhering together. Take the following pill occasionally to keep the bowels
regular : — Procure at the chemist's half-an-ounce of pill of rufa. Form it into pills the
size of a pea. Two to be taken 'as occasion may require. Foment with warm watar
after every stool, and use a little wet Fuller's earth to prevent friction.

Franklin's Plagiarisms, — The plagiarisms of Franklin are numerous. The followbg.
by the learned Bishop Taylor, was appropriated bv Franklin, and the great mas? of
readers to this day believe it to have been his production : — " When Abraham sat at his
tent door, according to his custom, waiting to entertain strangers, he espied an old man
stooping and leaning upon his staff, weary with age and travel, being upwards of an
hundred years old. He received him kindly upon his approach, washed his feet, provided
supper, and caused him to sit down ; but observing that the old man ate, and prayed not,
nor begged for a blessing on his meal, he asked him why he did not worship the God of
heaven* The-eW man told him that he worshipped the fire only, and acknowledged no other
god ; at which answer Abraham grew so zealously angry that he thrust the old man ont of
his tent, and exposed him to all the evils of night anil an unguarded condition. When
the old man was gone, God called unto Abraham and asked him where the stranger was.
And Abraham answered and said, ' Lord, he would not worship Thee, neither would he
call upon Thy name ; therefore I have driven him before my face into the wilderness.'
And God said, * Have I borne with him these hundred years, and nourished and dsthed
him, although he has dishonoured me, a&d couldst not thou, who art thyself a shiner,
fcear with him one night?"

POETRY.

WORKS HUMAN AND DIVINE.

Sheffield.

Whatever work* of art we scan
, With scrutinizing eye,
Despite the pride and toil of man.

There imperfections he :
Though fair and beautiful it seem

To our unaided sight.
Yet microscopic power can bring

Deformities to light.

So vith the creeds mankind hare framed

Of every kind and name ;
Though plausible and much revered,

Their issue is the same:
If an filled with vanity may boast

His wisdom or his skill,
Yet truth reveals a host of faults.

And proves him foolish still.

Not thus anions the work* of Him
Who farmed the lovely flower;

There order and perfection beam-
Intelligence and power.

The grass, the trees— yea, everything
Gtesm with a light divine,

While to the aided gaze profound
Mora hidden gloriw/ shine.

Thus with revealed religion, too,
'Tis, as its Author, pure :

Unnumbered beauties greet the sight,
Wheu men its light secure;

And still their strengtheuing sight mar thri.
Glories unseen before—

If ay find a banquet. w!»ere the soul
Can feast far evermore.

W. Cusoc

CONTENTS.

A Living Testimony 417

The Gospel versus Creeds of Men 418

Address to the Young Sisters 419

History of Jaseph Smith 420

Editorial.-^Contracted Ideas— Extremes to be

' Avoided...... 424

Determination 4J6

Corroepoudenoe.— America : Letter from Elder B.
H. Schettler.— Scotland : Letters from EMert
Stuart and Baxter. — England : Letters from

Elders Hodgert, Kay, and Gleason 427

Summary of News and Passing Events.. ~ 430

Varieties 431

Poetry.—" Works Human and Divine." ~ 43t

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEOKUE Q. GANNON, 4i, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOR SALE AT .THE LATTER-DAY 8AINTS' BOOK *>EPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET. CRC*.s*i*TRBBT,
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAK.

A noiH iKaU gome even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controvert \oith the nation*: henfW
plead with aU/Ush; he will give them that are vricked to the tword, $aith the Lord."— JtnmmiB.

No. 28, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, July 13, 1861. Price One Penny.

VIEWS ON OUT -BOOR PREACHING.

BY ELDER JAMBS S. BROWN.

In order that every one may be left
without An excuse, and the Gospel be
preached in all the world to every crea-
toe, it seems highly necessary that all
r wno- have received the holy Priesthood
1 of Ged, with authority to preach, should
realize the weighty injunctions that are
laid upon them, and rise in the strength
of Israel's God, girding on the whole
armour of righteousness, and go forth
with a warning voice to the slumbering
nations of the earth ; for the harvest is
truly great, but the labourers are few.
In order that we may accomplish this
great labour, it seems that we shall have
to avail ourselves of the pleasant
weather which we now enjoy for out-
door preaching; and in so doing we
should observe the instructions of our
Saviour to his Apostles in olden times,
when he said — " Behold I send you as
sheep in the midst of wolves. Be ye
therefore wise as serpents, and harmless
as doves." (Matt. x. 16.)

From this passage we learn that it is
necessary we Bhoukl use much wisdom
and be very harmless. Now, in what
way can we be wise and accomplish the
most good f Would it be wise and ef-
fective of good to go out into the streets
and public market-places, and there
begin to testify that Joseph Smith was
a Prophet of God, that Bngham Young

is his legal successor, that 44 Mormon-
ism " is true, and that the Latter-day
Saints are the best people in the world P
Or would it be wiser, often, to say
nothing about these subjects, but just
preach the first principles of the Gospel
by the power of the Holy Ghost sent
down from heaven, selecting as respect-
able places as possible to preach in,
where we would not obstruct the tho-
roughfare of the people, nor infringe
upon the rights of any individual, and
there, without reference to any sect or
party, advance the pure principles of
truth in plainness and simplicity, — thus
feeding the untutored mind with milder
food than those strong testimonies
which are so repugnant to the public
mind, through the many slanderous and
false reports that have "been so liberally
disseminated by the adversaries of aU
truth ? It is necessary at times to name
the name of Joseph Smith, mention
Brigham Young, and speak of the Lat-
ter-day Saints, to give point and force
to the principles advanced; but they who
seek humbly before God for his Spirit
and power to attend them will have
wisdom bestowed upon them to speak of
these things, when a holy influence
will accompany them, and will avoid
strong, unsustained statements, or ex-
tremes of any kind, whereby odium

Digitized by

KNOW THE LORD.

434

might be brought upon the cause of
truth.

While it is necessary we should be
known as the servants of the Most High
God, and endowed with his power, it is
not necessary that we should present
that information in such an unpalatable
form that the people would reject it and
us together. Many times, if the princi-
ples of truth are advanced with a strong
and urgent testimony, the people will
turn away with disgust, whereas if the
truth were advanced in plainness and
simplicity, its very beauty would charm
the hearers, and it would be gladly
received ; and if there is not too much
dealt out at a time, the appetite will be
keener on the next occasion, and the
sheep will begin to know the shepherd's
voice, and will follow him ; for they will
learn that he is harmless, and kind,
and good to them. But if ho begin to
throw stones at them and dig out their
eyes, telling them that they do not know
anything, it would not be strange if
they were to mistake him for a wolf,
and flee away from his presence, or
raise the cry of "Wolf! wolt!" and
thus bring trouble to the shepherd.

Many a valuable sermon has been
preached without ever mentioning Joseph
Smith, Brigham Young, " Mormonism,"
Latter-day Saint, or anything else that
would stir up the wrath and prejudice
of the ignorant ; for it does seem that
the people have lain so long in the
pickle of tradition, that they are
thoroughly saturated with it; and to
lay aside those parental traditions
all at once is more than they can
bear.

Hence we should be wise and consider
the circumstances "which surround the
people, and with all diligence and
humility before the Lord, and in long-
suffering, speaking nothing to harrow
up the feelings of the ignorant, preach
the truth in every city, town, village,

and hamlet, ever seeking wisdom of the
Great Giver of all good. Then, if we
are persecuted, let it be for righteous-
ness* sake, that we may be participators
in those blessings promised by the
Saviour ; for if we are unwise and do
harm, there is no blessing promised
unto us if we are persecuted.

Then let us thrust in our sickles and
reap whilst the day lasts, that when the
wrath and indignation of an offended
God are poured out upon the wicked
nations of the earth, we may feel free,
and have it to say that we did all in
our power to teach the people and
warn them to flee from the wrath to
come.

Then up, ye Saints of God, and be
united with the Priesthood in your
faith, prayers, and exertions, and stand
by them firmly through every trial and
sorrow, that when you go from these
your native lands, you can feel free,
and say, "We owe them nothing."
Then, when we present true principles
to the people, and they are not inclined
to receive them, but seek to annoy us,
and persist in making disturbances, let
us leavo them and go where the people
will be glad to hear us ; for it is written
that God " will never force the human
mind." Let us go forth, then, with
united exertions, to advance the princi-
ples of truth upon the earth, proving
ourselves both wise and harmless, that
we may have it to say, when our career
is closed, 44 1 have fought the good
fight; I have finished the work thou didst
give me to do." And thus we may
receive the happy plaudit — " Enter into
my joy, and sit down on my throne.
Thou hast been faithful over a few
things, and now I will make you ruler
over many." Let us preach the pure
principles of truth, and they will testify
of themselves ; for truth is mighty, and
will stand the test, whilst error must
go down.

KNOW THE LORD.

BY ELDER E. L. SLOAN.

One of the ancient Prophets has i has said, 44 They shall teach no more
declared that there would come a time I every man his neighbour, and every
when the 14 earth shall be full of the I man his brother, saying, * Know thd
knowledge of the Lord and another ! Lord for they shall all know me, from

Digitized by

KNOW THE LORD.

435

the least of them unto the greatest
of them, saith the Lord." (Jer. xxxi. 35.)
And in these two declarations are con-
veyed a most important truth worthy the
deep and earnest consideration of every
intelligent being. A profession of know -
lege and a possession of knowledge are
as distinct as assumption and assurance
can be ; hence, individuals may profess
an acquaintanceship with the things of
God, may lay claim to be the recipients
of the knowledge that He is, and may
assume that they are in possession of
the revelations of his holy will, and yet
not be in possession of a single particle
of certain knowledge concerning him,
his laws, designs, or requirements.

For centuries a belief in the existence
of the Lord of Hosts has been incul-
cated among many millions of the
children of men. Laws and command-
ments purporting to have been revealed
by him in former ages have been taught
and enforced ; governments have received
that belief, and have professed to base
their constitutions upon it, and mould
their legislatures in accordance with
commandments of admittedly Divine
origin ; and the bulk of the people have
received and* nurtured it, until it is
interwoven with their natures, and has
become a part almost of their very
existence.

The inculcation of such a belief is
genial and savours of worthy design ;
but when it is permitted to usurp the
place of knowledge, and the salvation of
its recipients is thereby imperilled, it
becomes the duty of every authorized
teacher of truth to endeavour in honesty
and plainness to point out the source of
that Knowledge, which shines as the sun
in the firmament, shedding light and life
upon all who place themselves in a
position to receive its kindly and inspi-
riting rays.

What do the inhabitants of the earth
really know concerning God P Many of
them have 1 lisped prayers to him at the
knees of pious mothers, in childhood's
innocent hours, — have listened with
rapt attention to the rehearsal by
revered preceptors of his wondrous
power, exalted attributes, and mar-
vellous love, — have gazed with awe upon
the vast expanse of space, studded with
his creationsj which daily and nightly
proclaim his majesty and might; or,
assisted by the aids of science, have

discovered in every drop of water an
ocean of life teeming with aniraalcuke,
and on every leaf a world inhabited,
declaring the power of his creative
skill ; yet, though with minds filled with
awe at the multiplied evidences around
them of a vast design and a Great
Designer, they may prostrate themselves
in adoration and reverence before the
Author of life, how much in reality are
they superior to the Athenians who had
erected an altar " to the Unknown
God"?

• " Man cannot by searching find out
God," said the sacred writer, many cen-
turies ago ; and the experience of all
past times, added to our own personal
experience, proves the truth of the
statement. Every man who calmly and
closely questions his own nature will
find within himself a longing after the
knowledge of that mystic future which
is hidden from him — a desire to under-
stand something more concerning the
great cause of his existence than he
already knows ; and this desire is rightly
placed within him by his Eternal
Parent, who would not have so endowed
man, unless ho had designed to furnish
means whereby that desire could be
legitimately gratified.

The prophetic declarations quoted at
the commencement of this article
require no corroborative evidence to
prove that mankind generally were
then in ignorance concerning God, and
would continue so down to a period of
time long subsequent to that in which
the Prophets lived, while the present
condition of the world, with its conten-
tions, opinions, and doubts concerning
the Almighty and the revelations of
his will, indubitably declares that the
happy period has not yet arrived, but
still ues in the future.

That this knowledge is not of trivial
importance we learn from the following
language of the Son of God : — " For this
is life eternal, that they might know thee,
the only true God, and Jesus Christ
whom thou hast sent." (John xvii. 3.)
Hence the necessity that all who desire
eternal life should walk in the light, that
they may be lifted above the shallows of
doubt, freed from the vanities of mis-
conception and unstable opinion, and
placed upon the solid foundation of
certainty and knowledge.

What though at a thousand altars

Digitized by

436

KNOW THE LOBD.

devoted worshippers may offer up, in a
thousand different forms, their prayers
and tokens of worship to the Eternal, —
so long as they rest satisfied with a
blind reliance on the traditions of the
past, they are in ignorance whether
their worship is acceptable before the
God whom they profess to serve, or not.
The rude savage, who walks in the tra-
ditions of his progenitors and invokes
the aid of the Great Spirit, has as solid
grounds to satisfy his own mind that his
adoration is acceptable before that
Great Spirit, as the most enlightened
Christian has who rests satisfied with
the belief in which he has been cradled,
schooled, and reared, unless that belief
be endorsed by the testimony of Heaven
to himself. Books cannot impart this
knowledge. If they could, then the
ignorant and unlearned would lag far
behind in the race for eternal life.
Wealth cannot purchase it, else would
the poor lack tne most precious and
inspiriting hope which cheers their
ofttimes miserable existence; philosophy
nor science cannot find it, or the
philosophers and scientific men would
alone possess it; but the gift of God
is free alike to all who will live to obtain
it. The poor and the rich, the ignorant
and learned, the plebeian and the
patrician are alike subject to the
conditions by which alone it can be
obtained, and will be equally the reci-
pients of it, through obedience to these
conditions.

Another thing we can deduce from
the prophecies first quoted, and that is,
there must be a commencement to the
spread of this knowledge. We have no
reason to suppose that by a miraculous
infusion of the Holy Spirit all the
human family will arrive at this condi-
tion of excellence at once. On the
contrary, every argument, whether
drawn from revelation or reason, is in
favour of its being a gradual work.
Daniel tells us that " Many shall run
to and fro, and knowledge shall be
increased ;" and the whole Gospel plan
evinces a design on the part of Jehovah
to reveal himself to his children, just in
proportion to their preparation for the
reception of that revelation : therefore
every individual who lives so as to
receive the revelations of Deity assists
in hastening the day when that wide-
spread knowledge shall exist which will

produce incalculable blessings among
the children of men.

It is very unfashionable now to lay
claim to any certainty concerning indivi-
dual happiness or misery in the future, or
to profess any further Knowledge of the
Lord than that enjoyed by generations
which have immediately preceded us.
Men permit themselves to rest satisfied
with hopes and surmises, desires
and anticipations, which are open to
doubts and fears; but the hope of a
Saint is like an anchor cast behind the
vail, having good holding ground there,
attached to the strong cable of certainty
formed by the revelations of heaven to
himself, so that his soul can ride secure
when the tempests of persecution and
adversity rage around him in their
wildest moods.

If this condition of uncertainty were
to continue for ever, then the day spoken
of by the Prophets would never arrive ;
and the spirit which leads men to rest
in this state of uncertainty is one which,
strikes at the very foundation of the
inspiration of that Bible on which pro-
fessing Christians base their hopes of
salvation.

Nay, more : without possessing that
testimony which leads to a knowledge
of God, it is impossible to know whether
the Bible, or any other book purporting
to contain the revelations of eternal
truth, is inspired or not. The very
individuals who print, read, and dis-
seminate the Bible, do not— cannot
know whether it is indeed the work of
inspiration or of imposition, unless they
pursue the path marked out in it for
acquiring a Knowledge concerning the
Divine cause of inspiration. Believe
they may, as firmly, as truly, and as
devotedly as men can believe ; still that
belief is not knowledge : therefore the
very schemes which they propose for
man's eternal happiness and bliss are
open to doubts to every inquiring,
reasoning mind, unless with those
schemes they can promise an assurance
of indubitable certainty and knowledge
concerning the Being whom they say
they truly worship, and whose laws they
profess to teach.

Jesus has declared that "No man
knoweth the Son but the Father;
neither knoweth any man the Father
save the Son, and he to whomsoever the
Son will reveal him." (Matthew xi. 27.)

Digitized by

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

437

And as he has elsewhere said that it is
eternal life to know Qod, it behoves us
as sentient beings, and as Bible-be-
lievers, to find out how this revelation
can be obtained. Paul informs us that
" No man can say that Jesus is the Lord
but by the Holy Ghost," (1 Cor. xii. 3,)
evidently inferring the possession of a
certainty and knowledge obtained from
heaven through the manifestation of the
Spirit of God, as any one who had the
power of speech could simply say that
Jesus is the Lord, even though he were
the most corrupt and iniquitous being
that ever crawled through existence.
Here, then, is the source by which the
desired knowledge can be obtained —
the power that can open up the com-
munication between God and man ; for
it takethof the things of the Father and
the Son, and showeth them" onto those
-who enjoy its ministrations; and this
gives to the Gospel of salvation that
beauty of consistency which is manifest
in all the designs and purposes of the
Iiord ; for it quickens men's perceptive
faculties, and satisfies their awakened
aspirations, stamping the Gospel plan

with the impress of eternal truth, and
bearing testimony strong and irrefrag-
able of the existence, justice, and love
of the Creator of man.

As this influence grows and extends
in power in the hearts of the children
of men, the knowledge of God will
deepen and expand ; and for this end
he has revealed anew, through his ser-
vant Joseph the Prophet in these last
days, the Gospel of peace and salvation,
with all its blessings and power, in
purity and fulness. For this end, also,
his servants are labouring with all dili-
gence and faithfulness, calling upon all
men to repent, forsake their sins, and
prepare themselves for the reception of
the Holy Spirit, — not that good feeling
alone under whose influence men shout
hallelujah and sine sacred songs, yet
which leaves room for dubiety and un-
certainty, but that precious gift, to
be obtained only in God's appointed
way, whereby mankind may progress
in the knowledge of the truth, and
hasten on the happy day when "all
shall know the Lord, from the least even
unto the greatest."

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Cbnttnutdfrcm page 423.)

Wednesday, 8. — Returned home. At
10 a.m. went before the Municipal Court
on the case — "Francis M. Higbee versus
Joseph Smith." I insert the report of
the trial as published by direction of the
court : —

"Municipal Court,

City of Nauvoo, Illinois.
Third Day, Regular Term, May 8, 1844.
Before Alderman M. K. Whitney, Acting
Chief Justice, and Aldermen Daniel H.Wells,
William Marks, Orson Spencer, George W.
Harris, Gustavus Hills, George A. Smith,
and Samuel Bennett, Associate Justices,
presiding.

Ex-parte, ) Messrs. Stiles and
Joseph Smith, Sen., \ Rigdon, Counsel for
<m Habeas Corpus. ) Smith.

This case came before the court upon a
return to a writ of habeas corpus, which
was issued by this court on the 6th of May
instant, upon petition of Joseph Smith, sen.,
as follows : —

•State of Illinois, \ ~ ,
City of Nauvoo. J * ct '

To the Honorable Municipal Court in and

for the City of Nauvoo :

The undersigned, your petitioner, most
respectfully represents that he is an inha-
bitant of said city. Your petitioner further
represents that he is under arrest in said
city, and is now in the custody of one John
D. Parker, Deputy Sheriff of the county of
Hancock, and State of Illinois ; that the said
Parker holds your petitioner by virtue of a
writ of 'capias'jad respondendum, 1 issued by
the clerk of the Circuit Court of the county
of Hancock, and State of Illinois, at the
instance of one Francis M. Higbee of said
county, requiring yourpetitioner to answer
the said Francis M. Higbee, * of a plea of
the casef damage, five thousand dollars.
Your petitioner further represents that the
proceedings against him are illegal ; that the
said warrant of arrest is informal, and
not of that character which the law recog-
nizes as valid ; that the said writ is wanting
and deficient in the plea therein contained ;
that the charge or complaint which your
petitioner is therein required to answer is
not known to the law.

Digitized by

438

HI8T0EY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

Your petitioner further avers that the
said writ does not disclose in any way or
manner whatever any cause of action;
which matter your petitioner most respect-
fully submits for your consideration, together
with a copy of the said warrant of arrest
which is hereunto attached.

Your petitioner further states that this
proceeding has been instituted against him
without any just or legal cause ; and further
that the said Francis M. Higbee is actuated
by no other motive than a desire to per-
secute and harass your petitioner for the
base purpose of gratifying feelings of revenge,
which, without any cause, the said Francis
M . Higbee has for a long time been fostering
and cherishing.

Your petitioner further states that he is
not guilty of the charge preferred against
him, or of any act against him, by which the
said Francis M. Higbee could have any
charge, claim, or demand whatever against
your petitioner.

Your petitioner further states that he
verily believes that another object the said
F. M. Higbee had in instituting the proceed-
ing was and is to throw your petitioner
into the hands of his enemies, that he might
the better carry out a conspiracy which has
for some time been brewing against the life
of your petitioner.

Your petitioner further states that the suit
which has been instituted against him has
been instituted through malice,private pique,
and corruption.

Your petitioner would therefore most re-
spectfully ask your honourable body to grant
him the benefit of the writ of habeas corpus \
that the whole matter may be thoroughly
investigated, and such order made as the law
and justice demand in the premises : and
your petitioner will ever pray.

Joseph Smith, Sen.

Nauvoo, May 6th, 1844.*
4 State of Illinois, ) „ ,
City of Nauvoo. J * ct '
The "people f the State of Illinois

To the Marshal of said city, greeting :

Whereas application has been made
before the Municipal Court of said city that
the body of one Joseph Smith, senior, of the
said city of Nauvoo, is in the custody of John
D. Parker, Deputy Sheriff of Hancock
County, and State aforesaid :

These are therefore to command the said
John D. Parker, of the county aforesaid, to
safely have the body of said Joseph Smith,
senior, of the city aforesaid, in his custody
detained, as it is said, together with the day
and cause of his caption and detention, by
whatsoever name the said Joseph Smith,
senior, may be known or called, before the
Municipal Court of said city forthwith., to
abide such order as the court shall make in

this behalf; and further, if the said John D.
Parker, or other person or persons, having 1
said Joseph Smith, senior, of said city of
Nauvoo, in custody, shall refuse or neglect
to comply with the provisions of this writ,
you, the Marshal of said city, or other person
authorized to serve the same, are hereby re-
quired to arrest the person or persons so
refusing or neglecting to comply as aforesaid,
and bring him or them, together with the
person or persons in his or their custody,
forthwith before the Municipal Court afore-
said, to be dealt with according to law ; and
herein fail not, and bring this writ with yon.

Witness, Willard Richards, Clerk of the
Municipal Court at Nauvoo, this 6th day of
May, in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and forty-four.

Willard Richards,
Clerk, M. C. C. N/

4 1 hold the within-named Joseph Smith,
senior, under arrest, by virtue of a capias
ad respondendum.

Hancock Circuit Court,

To May Term, A.D. 1844.
Francis M. Higbee ")

versus > In case.

Joseph Smith/ )

The day of his caption, May 6th, 1844.

To damage five thousand dollars.

Wm. Backenstos, S. H. C,
By J. D. Parker, D. S/

4 State of Illinois, 1

Hancock County, ] '

The people of the State of Illinois

To the Sheriff of said county, greeting :
We command you that you take Joseph
Smith, if to be found within your county, and
him safely keep, so that you have his body
before the Circuit Court of said county of
Hancock on the first day of the next term
thereof, to be holden at the Court-house in
Carthage on the third Monday in the month
of May instant, to answer Francis M. Higbee,
of a plea of the case ; damage, the sum of
five thousand dollars, as he says ; and you
have then there this writ, and make due
return thereon in what manner you execute
the same.

/— -* — \ Witness, J. B. Bacrbnstos,
I l 1 Clerk of Mid Circuit Court at
{ £>eai - j Carthage, # this first day of May,
' — , — ' in the year of our Lord, one
thousand eight hundred and forty-four.

J. B. Backen8Tos, Clerk,
By D. E. Head, Deputy/
* The Sheriff is directed to hold the within-
named defendant to bail in the sum of five
thousand dollars.

J. B. Backenstos, Clerk,
By D. E. Hbad, Deputy/
' This is a true copy of the original now

Digitized by

HISTOBY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

439

in the possession of William B. Backenstos,
Sheriff of Hancock County.

By J. D. Parker, Deputy.'
* State of Illinois, )
Hancock County, > Set.

City of Nauvoo. J
To Mr. Francis M. Higbee :

Sir, — You will please to take notice that
Joseph Smith, senior, has petitioned for a
writ of habeas corpus from the Municipal
Court of said city, praying that he «iay be
liberated from the custody of John D. Parker,
Deputy Sheriff of Hancock County, by whom
he is held in custody on a capias ad respon-
dendum, issued by the Circuit Court of Han-
cock County on the first day of May instant,
to answer Francis M. Higbee on a plea of
the case, &c; which writ is granted ; and you
will have the opportunity to appear before
the Municipal Court at 10 o'clock, a.m., on
the 7th of May instant, at the Council Cham-
ber in said city, and show cause why said
Joseph Smith, senior, should not be liberated
on said habeds carpus.

/ — ' — \ Witness my hand and seal of

{Seal \ court ttlis 6th day of May '
* ) Wlllard Richards,

Clerk, M. C. C. N.'

* The above trial is deferred until Wednes-
day, the 8th instant, 10 o'clock, a.m.

Willard Richards, Clerk.*

' I have served the within by reading to
the within-named Francis M. Higbee.

John D. Parker, Constable.'

Mr. Higbee did not appear, either by
himself or counsel.

Mr. George P. Stiles then said — The pe-
tition and papers have been read in your
hearing. It is a petition for a writ of habeas
corpus, on the grounds — 1st, the insuffi-
ciency of the writ, and other causes assigned.
The insufficiency of the writ is sufficient to
discharge the prisoner: it is the privilege
and option of this court, if the writ is invalid.
It is the privilege of the prisoner to have all
the matters investigated, in order to prove
that the prosecutor is joined in with other
persons in a conspiracy to take away Mr.
Smith's life. Although it is competent for
the court to discharge, on account of the in-
sufficiency of the writ, yet we want an
examination into the matters, in order that
all may be understood.

All warrants should disclose the crimes
known to the court, so that the prisoner
might know what answer to make. The pri-
soner might have had to lie in jail six
months, because he knows nothing what he
is charged with in the writ. It might be that
he is charged with debt — that he had to pay
to Francis M. Higbee the sum of five thou-
sand dollars, or anything. There is no
action specified. Is it meant for trespass, for
maltreating, beating, or slander, or what

other crime P — so that the damage of five
thousand dollars might be known for what
it is.

The writ is void for want of substance and
form. All who are familiar with law, common
sense, or justice, must know that it is inde-
finite—no charge defined. If we are not
released here, we shall be released in the
CircuitCourt, on account of the insufficiency;
but we are now willing to investigate the
merits of the case. We know nothing but
from information from other sources, and
we want this court to determine whether we
are held to any charge to Francis M. Higbee.
We have given him notice to attend here, if
he has any cause to keep us here.

I propose to bring in the testimony of the
prisoner : he has averred ceitain facts ; he
is ready to make oath of them, if yourjhonours
require it. There is no ordinance against
the prisoner taking his oath i it is within the

f rovince of the court to allow him to do so.
t is the privilege of the court in any case to
hear the plaintiff. Law is founded on justice.

Sidney Rigdon said — It has been truly
stated that this court has nothing before it
on which it can act. There is a prisoner
brought into court who is in custody within
the province of your honours. Those papers
have been read, but they disclose no crime —
no guilt. There are no merits to try ; they

S resent no meritorious cause of action ; they
o not present the prisoner's guilt in any
form whatever. What are the merits P Shall
we try him for horse-stealing, burglary,
arson, or what P You shall hear the merits,
if you can find them out : then the court has
power to try. Is it burglary, arson, or some-
thing else P What is the point to try P
Those papers know no crime ; this couit
knows no crime. There are no merits — no
existence of anything ; it is an ignis fatuus —
a will-o'-the-wisp, to arrest somebody for
doing nothing — to have the privilege of
trying a law-suit about nothing. Ihe court
never says Francis M. Higbee ever preferred
anything. If there can be any merits hatched
up, we will try them.

Joseph Smith said — I am satisfied that
this thing can be brought to trial. It appears
I am a prisoner, and by the authority of the
Circuit Court. I petitioned this court for a
hearing. I am a prisoner, and aver that it
is a malicious prosecution and a wicked con-
spiracy got up by men for the purpose of
of harassing me and decoying me into
their hands. I want to show that this man
has joined a set of men who have entered
into a conspiracy to take away my life.

After hearing the case, you have power to
punish, imprison, or fine, or anything you
please: you have a right to punish the*
offender. If I am a criminal, you have a right
J to punish me, and send me to the Circuit

Digitized by Google

440

EDITORIAL.

Court ; but if I am as innocent as the angels
of heaven, you have power to send the pro-
secutor to trial, if crime is proved against
him. They have no merit in their cause. I
want to show up their conspiracy — that these
men are working the basest corruption :
they have lifted up their hands against inno-
cence. You have power to hear the petitioner
on his oath. I will show you a precedent.
Look at the Federal Court of this district.
The case was made out by affidavit, which I
swore to before the court.

The habeas corpus is granted on the
testimony of the petitioner. It is the law
in Blackstone that where no other matter
is in existence, and the prisontr swears he
is innocent, and his character for truth is
supported by good testimony, he must be dis-
charged ; and he then goes away as free as
the proud eagle. If I have the privilege of
testimony under oath to the facts that they
make slander of, then they cannot do any-
thing with it.

Suppose that I am an eye-witness to the
crime of adultery, or any other crime, and
know verily for myself that the man is
guilty of adultery, or "other crime, and I speak
of it, — the man may sue me for damages,

although I know him to be guilty ; but if I
swear to it in a court, he cannot hurt me.

If I have the privilege of riving testimony
under oath, they can never do anything with
me ; but if you discharge me on the insuffi-
ciency of the writ, they can prosecute me
again and again ; but if you give me a fair
hearing, they cannot prosecute me again.
I want the oath to go to the world. I
must make statements of facts in order to
defend myself. I must tell the story in its
true light under oath ; then I can be for ever
set free. May I not have the privilege of
being protected by lawP The peace of
myself, my family, my happiness, and the
happiness of this city depend upon it.

The court allowed him to proceed with
the case.

Mr. Stiles said— This is a malicious prose-
cution, and we have averred that it is mali-
cious, and have a right to prove it. There
is an insufficiency in the writ : the writ did
not show any crime had been committed,
and we can show that we are not guilty of
any plea in the case. There is no charge
or case against us, and the whole matter is
corrupt and malicious and wicked.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

, Saturday, July 13, 1861.

FULFILMENT OF PROPHECY— ITS DISPARAGEMENT BY
UNBELIEVERS.

There has scarcely ever been a great [discovery of any description made at any
time, but there hat been somebody ready to detract from its importance, to
underrate its merit, or to contend for the honour of its discovery. This
is fully illustrated in the history of the discovery of the western hemisphere, in
the discovery of the art of printing, of the application of steam, and in the various
other discoveries in science and art. Such discoveries, after they become known,
are so simple and seem to have been so easily made, that the envious think the
discoverer entitled to no credit ; or, if the discovery be admitted to be creditable,
there is never any lack of claimants to dispute with him the honour of making it.

These reflections have been called forth by noticing in a Cardiff paper of the
29th ult. the revelation received by brother Joseph Smith on the 25th of
December, 1832, on the rebellion of South Carolina and the division of the United
States, with the editor's remarks thereon. The revelation was sent to him by a
"correspondent in Cardiff. The editor says that he does not feel to give Mr.
Smith his adherence upon the strength of his prophecy, because it would be easy

Digitized by

XDITOBIAL.

441

to cite from the works and speeches of men who have not professed to have the
gift of prophecy passages shrewdly foretelling the present war, and entering
more into the reason of the thing and the results than Mr. Smith has done.

We presume that he is not the only one who " does not feel to give Mr. Smith
his adherence upon the strength of his prophecy,'* neither is he the only one,
now that the prophecy is partly fulfilled, who feels disposed to underrate its
importance by intimating that the present trouble in the United States was
shrewdly foretold by others besides Joseph Smith. The disposition to do so is
quite general. But we confess that we cannot see why other men's " shrewdly
foretelling the present war" should detract in the least from the truth or the
value of Joseph Smith's prophecy on the subject. That any men have " entered
more into the reason of the thing and the results than he has done," we
dispute, for the simple reason that they could not. He has told, in as plain a
manner as language will admit of, how and where the troubles were to commence ;
and as to the results, they were to be " a full end of all nations." How any one
could enter more into the matter than this we cannot comprehend, neither are
there any works or speeches from which sueh citations can be made. But even
if such men had shrewdly foretold these things — " not professing to have the gift
of prophecy" — they can only claim the credit of being clever guessers : they made
no higher pretensions. With Joseph Smith it is different. He professed to be a
Prophet of God. In this prophecy, as in innumerable other instances, he risked
that reputation by uttering a definite, unambiguous prophecy, foretelling certain
events, and naming the place where those events should transpire, and the
circumstances that should attend their fulfilment, with a distinctness of detail
that we search for in vain in the works and speeches of uninspired men upon this
subject. It was not an opinion hazarded upon the well-known antagonism
between slavery and freedom, or upon the sensitiveness of the Southern
slaveholders and the aggressive tendencies of the Northern Abolitionists (an
opinion for which he would receive credit, if it proved correct, or, if incorrect, tri
which no discredit would be attached,) but a prophecy in the name of the Lord.
His reputation as a true Prophet depended upon the prophecy proving itself
true ; and, being true, it cannot be received as an evidence that he made correct
guess only, but as an evidence that he was what he professed to be — a Prophet
of God. He must have the credit of uttering a true prophecy.

However many there may be who have shrewdly foretold the present war in
passages in their works and speeches, it is indisputably true that, previous to the
breaking out of this difficulty, very few, if any, believed that it would result in
war. Even the idea of a separation of the Southern States from the Northern
was scoffed at, no longer ago than a few weeks, or months at most, as highly impro-
bable. Not only was this opinion prevalent in America — it was current in Eng-
land. Writers did not hesitate to assert that the difficulty was but temporary,
and would soon be settled, and harmony once more prevail between the two sec-
tions. Those who, in moments of prescience, had thought it not altogether im-
probable that the hatred existing between the advocates of freedom and the
defenders of slavery would, at some time in the future, precipitate a collision
between their sections, hoped that, this was not the time. And though the clash
of arms has resounded throughout what has heretofore been the Union, and
thousands are arrayed in deadly hostility against each other, how many are there
now who believe that it will result in a protracted war, or that the future events
which Joseph Smith has predicted are at all likely to be fulfilled P

442

EDITORIAL.

It is not a difficult matter, when an event of the proportions of this American
war has taken place, to look back and trace the successive steps^which have finally
culminated in the virtual rending asunder of the republic ; and to think that it
required no gift of prophecy to foretell it. The mini becomes familiar with the
various stages of the difficulty, and it perceives, after it has transpired, that the
dissolution of the Union is but the inevitable and natural consequence of such a
train of events. Looking at it in this light, the importance of such a revelation as
that given by the Lord through Joseph Smith is made to appear trifling, and at-
tempts are not wanting, as we see in many instances, to place it on a level with
the random utterances of opinion by those who have written or spoken upon this
subject. Before it was fulfilled it was deemed folly to expect its fulfilment : after
its fulfilment, who is there that could not have foretold it ? This is tbe mode of
reasoning adopted by unbelievers in the power of God to reveal events in these
days, and it is the mode of reasoning that has always been adopted by unbelievers
in every age of the world.

The rising of the slaves in the South and the descent of the Indians upon the
dismembered and weakened American nation, with the pouring out of war upon
all nations, are events still unfulfilled, but yet plainly predicted in the revelation
referred to ; but who are anticipating such disasters ? Do the Southerners think
it likely to come to pass ? or do the Northerners have the most distant idea that
such a fate is in store for the nation ? If we may judge of their hopes and
anticipations by their words, they confidently expect to end the war before twelve
months have expired; and it is even said that President Lincoln intends to
prosecute the war with such vigour as to finish it by winter. Turning from that
country to this, does anybody expect to see this great and powerful nation reduced
to the necessity of calling upon other nations for aid to defend herself against
her foes ? When all these events shall have been fulfilled, will there not be some
writer who will rise up and strive to weaken the force of the prophecy, by
asserting that " it would be easy to cite from the works and speeches of men
who have not professed the gift of prophecy passages shrewdly foretelling these
things, and entering more into the reason of the thing and the results than
Joseph Smith has done" P It would be rather remarkable if there should not be
somebody as knowing as the gentleman at Cardiff to claim for some person else
the honour of having known it beforehand as well as Joseph Smith !

It is by such methods as these that the Adversary of souls succeeds in hood-
winking the children of men and leading them to disregard the precious warnings
of the Almighty. The prophecy of the Son of God himself to the Jews respecting
the destruction 0/ their city and its attendant horrors passed,, unheeded by the
masses, though uttered forty years previous to its fulfilment. Before it came to
pass it was doubtless thought to be an unlikely event ; after it came to pass, they
had some method of lessening the importance of the prophecy. If they had not
an editor to tell them, as they have at Cardiff, that the troubles had been foretold
by men who had not professed the gift of prophecy, they had somebody who
answered the purpose equally as welL

Unbelief in the power or willingness of God to directly reveal the events of the
future was the characteristic of that age. Through that unbelief that generation
miserably suffered and perished, regardless of the warnings given. Let this
generation be warned by the teachings of history, and thus avoid the error
from which former generations suffered.

Digitized by

COBBEBPONDBNCB.

443

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

SHEFFIELD DISTRICT.

Sheffield, June 29, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Last Sunday morning
brother Clark and myself visited the
Saints at Masboro' and Rotherham,
held a meeting there in the afternoon,
and had a good time. There are but
few Saints in this Branch, and they live
very much scattered, which makes it
rather inconvenient in regard to meeting ;
but I am thankful to be able to say that
they are feeling first-rate in the work
of God ; and where this is' the case
among the Saints, there are ever hopes
and prospects of good being done. There
are some few here enquiring into the
truth. In the evening we visited the
Chesterfield Branch, which numbers
about 100, and from which about 20
souls emigrated this spring ; had a good
meeting : there was a goodly number in
attendance, — some few strangers. All
seemed to partake richly of the calm
peaceable influence of the Spirit of God,
which ever comes with peace and joy
and 44 healing in his wings."

After meeting, we convened in coun-
cil and laid plans to infuse vigour and
life into all the Saints, and to extend the
knowledge of the Gospel to those who
were unacquainted with its principles
and truths. I recommended example
and strict observance of the laws of
God, on the part of the Priesthood, as
the best means of disabusing the public
mind and converting the honest in
heart, and turning souls from the
44 error of their ways" to a correct
understanding of our mission, and the
practice of pure and holy principles as
revealed in the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

A good feeling prevails. We held a
meeting on Tuesday evening ; had a
good attendance ; called a vote among
the Saints to see who would live their
religion aad keep the commandments of
God. and help to roll on the great work
in which we are engaged, and bear off
the responsibilities resting upon them.
There was not a dissenting vote. We
visited Stanley or Barrows Hill Branch,
numbering about 62 souls, on Wednes-
day, and had a good meeting in the

evening. This is a flourishing little
Branch ; the Saints are united and
feeling well, and are generally alive to
their duties ; and prospects at present
indicate much good being done in the
future. On Thursday we visited Wood-
house Branch. It numbers less than
any other Branch in this Conference. A
good feeling exists. I think there are
several about ready to be baptized.

We are intending to spend Sunday
at Pilley. This will complete a tour
through the whole Conference, after
which I shall, D.V., return to Bradford,
where I shall write to you again.

May God my Father bless you, brother
Cannon, and Presidents Lyman and
Rich, with all the faithful, is my constant
prayer.

Your brother in the Gospel,

Joseph F. Smith.

SOUTHAMPTON DISTRICT.

Bridport, Dorset, June 25, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since my last to you,
I have visited the majority of the Saints
in the Beading and Southampton Con-
ferences, and am now in Dorset, where
I met with Elders Barnes, Zyderlaan,
and the Saints, on Sunday the 23rd, and
held a Conference. Four Branches were
represented in very good standing.
Twenty-one have been baptized this
year, and the prospect for more is
cheering.

The Saints are very poor in this Con-
ference, pertaining to this world's goods ;
but I can say that they are truly a good
people, and feel to thank the Lord that
they live in a day of Gospel light, when
the truths of heaven are being revealed,
which causes them to feel buoyant in the
things of God. We had a glorious time
on Sunday ; every heart swelled with
joy, and every eye sparkled with the
fire of God.

I find the Elders, both local and
travelling, are united with me, and are
on hand to carry out my counsels and
instructions. Open-air preaching is
attended to throughout the District ;
and from all quarters I learn that the
results are satisfactory. May God bless

Digitized by

444

COBBBSPONDENCE.

me and my brethren with the power and
spirit of our callings, that we may be
enabled to accomplish a good work in
this portion of his vineyard, which he
will do, inasmuch as we live for it.
I am happy to say that the spirit of

fathering is on the increase among the
aints. A goodly number are already
making preparations for next year. It
is my prayer and desire all the time
that God may bless them with the ne-
cessary means to enable them to effect
their deliverance from these lands, and
thereby realize the righteous desires of
their hearts.

Please tender my kind regards to
Presidents Lyman and Rich, and all
the brethren in the Office. Praying
God to bless you with the spirit of your
calling to roll on his great work in
these lands, I remain your brother and
fellow -labourer in the kingdom of God,
W. Bramall.

WILTSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Devizes, Wilts, June 26, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I am happy to inform
you of our prospects of the work in this
part of the country. The few Saints
comprising the district in which
I am called to labour belong to
the working class, but are a warm-
hearted people. They have responded
well to the calls made upon them in
times past, and felt well over it,--so much
so, that they look back and call them
the good times. Now they say they are
poor. Well, they are po >r, from the fact
that they think so. According to their
own statement, circumstances were
as bad with them years ago as at the
present : but for some time past they
have began to think they are poor ; and
if any are poor, it is those who feel poor.
I have an idea that the less poverty is
preached, the better, although a be-
liever in helping to bear each other's
burdens.

It was a difficult matter for the
Saints to believe that any more would
be added to the Church. The cry was —
'* We have tried them long enough ;" but
their faith is on the increase since we
have commenced out- door preaching,
and we have baptized a few.

Our meetings in the open air are well
attended, and the people pay great

attention. We do not experience any of
that mobocratic spirit that I understand
formerly attended out-door preaching
in this country. I think it is best to
deal out the word in a spirit of kindness,
fully believing "that as we sow, so shall
we reap." Our prospects for the future
are quite flattering; the Saints are
uniting their endeavours to roll on the
work of the Lord.

I feel thankful to my Heavenly Father
for his goodness in enabling me to do
some good in his kingdom ; and may I
so return home, that in after years, when
the judgments of God fall heavily upon
the nations, I may feel satisfied that it
is not my fault that more are not saved
from among the wicked.

Hoping the Lord will bless your
every effort to do good, I remain your
brother in the Gospel,

C. H. Rhees.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

{Extract ofaXetterfrom Elder Van Cott. )
Copenhagen, June 27, 1861.

President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I forward you a Sta-
tistical Report of the Scandinavian
Mission for the first half-year. I have
been unable to send it before, as I had
not received all the reports from the
Conferences. You will see by the report
that there have been 912 baptized, which
are not so few, when we consider the cir-
cumstances with which we have been
surrounded, and the amount of labour
which has to be performed to convert
one individual ; yet, when compared i
with the great multitude of inhabitants
in this Mission, they are but a few.

Those who have been engaged in the
ministry have, as a general thing,
honoured their callings, exerting every
power and faculty which they possess,
in order to enlighten the children of men
and lead them in the way of life and
salvation. No labour has been con-
sidered too arduous, nor has opposition
or privation deterred them from* pursu-
ing that course which has been marked
out. The scoffs and frowns of the
wicked have been regarded as ema-
nating from a source far beneath their
notice ; consequently there has been less
time expended on useless subjects than
there otherwise would have been. The
Priesthood in general have begun to

Digitized by

NEWS FBOH UTAH.

445

learn to devote their time to the best
advantage, so that when they come into
conversation with individuals not in-
clined to receive the truth, they bear a
faithful testimony and leave them in the
hands of God, devoting their time upon
those who are susceptible of the truth.

In some of the Conferences you will
discover that there has been much more
increase than in others, which I con-
sider is attributable in a great measure
to surrounding circumstances, and the
honest inclinations of the people to re-
ceive the Gospel. Those who have
laboured in the Conferences less suc-
cessful have undoubtedly laboured as
hard as those who see much of the fruit
of their labours. Hence I conclude
that all will be rewarded according
to their works.

You are aware, undoubtedly, that in
Norway and Sweden there is not reli-
gious liberty ; yet the Gospel has paved
its way, to the joy and satisfaction of
many a benighted soul. The laws of
the land restricting religion are very
stringent, and in some instances have
been brought to bear upon our Elders;
but, when all is taken into consideration,
the authorities have been quite humane.
The work there has had a gradual in-
crease, and the prospect for the future
I consider to be altogether favourable.

On the Island of Gotland, which be-
longs to Sweden, there is recently a
Branch of the Church organized. ,

Our publicatiqns are read with much
interest, and they are a means of doing
great good. There are 484 out of the
Church who subscribe for the Stferne.
During the last six months there have
been 1110 meetings held with strangers,
and they are generally well attended.

The brethren who are here from Zion
are all well and doing first-rate ; and
I trust, with the blessing of the Lord,
that our labours in the future will be
crowned with success.

Since I returned from England, I have
attended four Conferences, one in
Sweden, one in Fyen, and two in
Jutland. All appear to be in a healthy
condition, full of life and energy.

My desire is that the blessing of the
Lord may attend our feeble efforts to
oenefit the people who are in the field of
our labours. I feel to acknowledge the
hand of the Lord in the prosperity
which has attended us thus far, and his
Spirit is still labouring upon the hearts
of the honest, and many are seeking
after the truth.

Ever praying that the Lord may bless
you abundantly, I remain, yours truly,

John Van Cott.

NEWS FROM UTAH..

{From the " Deseret News," May 22, 1861.)

Excursion through the Southern
Counties. — In accordance with previous
arrangements, President Young, accom-
panied by President Wells ; Elders W.
Woodruff, J. Taylor, George A. Smith,
J. Young ; Bishops Hunter, Smoot, E.
D. Woofiey, and Sharp, and a goodly
number of other citizens, (how many we
know not, but enough to mako up quite
a respectable party, including several
literary and scientific gentlemen,) left
the city on Wednesday morning last, on
an excursion through the southern part
of the Territory, which he has not
visited before for many years, and not
since the settlements in Washington
County were made. In the afternoon of
Wednesday, at five o'clock, as per
appointment, he dedicated the new and
elegant meetinghouse, at American

Fork. A large concourse of people are
reported to have been in attendance.
Staying there over night, the party
proceeded onward next morning, and,
passing through Provo, went to Spring-
ville, where a meeting was held at two
p.m. From Springvule the party went
to Payson that evening, and were
expecting to be at Fillmore City on the
Sunday following.

How long the President and party will
be absent from the city we are not
advised, but their return may not be
expected for several weeks.

Departure op the Governor. — His
Excellency Governor Cumming, accom-
panied by his* lady, left this city on the
evening of Friday last, on his return to
the States, having, as understood, asked

Digitized by

446

SUMMABT OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS

for and obtained from the Department
leave of absence for some six or eight
months ; and it is presumed that he
does not expect nor intend to come back
again and resume his official duties.

His entrance into Great Salt Lake
City, on the 12th of April, 1858, was
attended with some considerable parade
and ceremony ; but being somewhat ec-
centric, it seemed to be his wish to avoid
any demonstration of his friends on the
occasion of his departure, carefully con-
cealing from them, as far as possible,
the time when it mi^ht be expected to
take place ; and few, if any, know when
he went, as he was moving about briskly
from place to place during the day closing
up his business affairs, and late in the
afternoon started out so unceremoni-
ously, that it was not generally known
that he had gone till the next morning.

In passing up Emigration Kany on on
Saturday, at or near the last crossing of

the creek before asccciding the Little
Mountain, by some unexplained opera-
tion one of his waggons, as reported,
was upset, and its contents immersed in
the creek. Fortunately some men were
passing at the time, who rendered
efficient service in getting the waggon
right side up, and the wetted freight
replaced therein, for which they received
a liberal compensation.

Of the official acts of Governor Gum-
ming as the Chief Magistrate of Utah,
we do not wish to speak particularly at
this time, further than that the straight-
forward course pursued in the discharge
of his executive duties ; and the inde-
pendence he has manifested and main-
tained, in the midst of the difficulties
which have surrounded him at times,
have secured for him many friends, by
whom he will not soon be forgotten,
whatever the future may bring forth.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GENERAL.

The most extensive fire that has occurred
in London for. more than than a century
took place last Saturday night, and con-
tinued its ravages until Sunday morning.
The fire still burns strongly in the same
area, water and scientific applications
having failed to have any material effect ;
and its extinction is now merely a matter of
time, depending on its self-exhaustion. The
wharves and warehouses lining the river
and situated in and about Tooley-street,
London -bridge, were the scene of this
catastrophe. The loss is generally estimated
at about two millions.

A comet of great dimensions made a
sudden appearance on Sunday, 30th ult., its
nucleus was much larger and brighter than
a star of the first magnitude, and its tail,
which extended many degrees in the heavens,
was of the same form and will probably
equal in extent that of the comet which
visiied this country in the year 1858. The
approach of the above comet has been
accompanied by excessive heat in most
parts of Europe, followed, in France, by
violent and destructive storms, which in
some departments have inflicted much
injury on the growing crops.

In Paris, reports are current of a con-
spiracy having been discovered against the
Emperor's life. An Italian refugee has
been arrested at Marseilles on the suspicion
of being implicated in the j*ot. A letter in
cypher was found among his papers.

A telegraph cable, 205 miles in length,

has been successfully laid between the island
of Corsica and Toulon.

A despatch from Naples states that 500
muskets have been seized by the police.
Two Bourbon committees have been dis-
covered, and several arrests made. Six
hundred brigands have left Rome for the
Neapolitan frontier.

In Spain, the Republican insurgents are
shut up in Loja. The Correspojulcncia
Autografa says that the insurgents have
offered to surrender on condition of their
lives being spared. The authorities, how-
ever, require thcin to surrender at discretion.
Two waggons laden with powder have been
seized on the road to Loja.

Spain has resolved to abandon its claims
against Morocco, and to annex Tetuan as
an indemnity. The official Gazette publishes
a despatch, announcing that a band of 300'
Republicans, headed by Alberts Arloga, had
risen in insurrection in the environs of
Lorca. They were being rigorously pur-
sued by the royal troops.

Accounts from the port wine districts in
Portugal are all to the effect that the
disease is committing great havoc amongst
the grapes.

The Sultan of Turkey (Abdul Medjid)
died at Constantinople on the 25th ult. His
successor is Abdul Aziz. Namik Pasha is
appointed Minister of War in the place of
Riza Pasha, who is disgraced. Five hundred
palace servants have been dismissed. Other
reforms are expected. Mehemet Ali is in
favour with the Sultan.

Digitized by

VARIETIES.

447

AMERICA.

Dates have been received from New York
to the 22nd ultimo, from which we learn
that Colonel O'Neal Wallace's Indiana
regiment was surrounded at Cumber-
land by 10,000 rebels, and great anxiety
was felt on their account. A strong force
was immediately despatched from Harris-
burg to their assistance. The anticipated
attack on Washington on the 21st did not
take place. The Confederate troops fell
back on the approach of the Union army.
General M'Dowell meantime continues to
advance his lines. 5,000 of his division
moved on the 21st ult. from Ball's Cross-
roads to the vicinity of Falls Church — a
point about three miles distant from Farfax
Court-house, and the same from Vienna.
It was thought that a battle was inevitable
at that point. At Fort Monroe the outposts
of the Union forces had been driven in. The
Confederates have not abandoned the line
of the Potomac, in the vicinity of Harper's
Ferry. They still continue to annoy the
Union troops on the other side of the river.
Colonel Stone's command, which is now at
Poolesville, opposite Leesburg, is harassed
by the fire of the Confederates in that
neighbourhood. The Union forces return
the fire with their rifles across the river.
Colonel Stone reports that with some
artillery he could do good service in dis-
lodging the enemy. Six Confederate com-
panies, numbering nearly 500 men, left
5*ew Orleans, on the 13th instant, for

the seat of war in Virginia. It is believed
that there are large bodies of Con-
federates in ambuscade, behind masked
batteries, but a short distance from Wash-
ington. One of the Ohio regiments had
been fired upon from a masked battery, and
eight killed and seven missing. We learn
from Missouri that the State troops (se-
cessionists), who had been concentrated in
large force at Independence, had moved
to Lexington, where it is thought they
intend to make a decided stand against the
Union army of General Lyons. The
Confederates attacked the railway train
near Vienna, Virginia, and, firing grape
shot from guns in position, killed several
of the federal troops who were travelling by
the cars. There had been a sharp fight at
Boonville, Missouri, and 300 secessionists
killed. The capital of Missouri was taken
possession of on the 15th by Colonel Blair's
volunteers, without bloodshed. The Union
forces had been defeated at Cowle. Skir-
mishes had taken place at several places
in the States.

From New Grenada we learn that the
Government troops had defeated the revo-
lutionists, under General Mosquera, in a
sanguinary battle on the plains of Bogota.
The revolutionists had Generals Jimenez and
Gonzoles killed, with some hundreds of men
killed and wounded.

The West India mail brings news that a
severe shock of earthquake was felt at Palta
on the 23rd of May.

VARIETIES.

The Quaker and the Pugilist. — A genuine bully called upon a " Friend" avowedly to
thrash him. "Friend," remonstrate 1 the Quaker, knocking down the visitor's fists,
*' before thou proccedest to chastise me. wilt thou not take some dinner P" The bully was
a glutton, and at once consented, washing down the solids with libations of strong ale.
He rose up again to fulfil his original errand. " Friend," said the Quaker, " wilt thou
not first take some punch?" and he supplied abundance of punch. The bully, now
staggering, attempted: to thrash his entertainer ; but quoth the Quaker, 11 Friend, wilt
thou not take a pipe ?" This hospitable offer was accepted, and the bully, utterly weak,
staggered across the room to chastise the Quaker. The latter, opening the twindow, and
pulling the bully towards it, thus addressed him : — " Friend, thou earnest hither not to be
pacified : I gave thee a meat offering, but that did not assuage thy rage ; I gave thee a
drink offering, still thou wort beside thyself ; I gave thee a burnt offering, neither did that
suffice ; and now will I try thee with a heave offering." And with that he tossed him oiit
of the window.

In the Old Testament there are 66 books, 1,189 chapters, 31,173 verses, 773,692 words,
3,566,480 letters. In the New Testament, 27 books, 260 chapters, 7,959 verses, 181,253
words, 838,380 letters. Apocrypha, 14 books, 172 chapters, 6,081 verses, 152,185 words.
The middle chapter and the least in the Bible is the 117th Psalm ; the middle verse is the
8th of the 118th Psalm. The middle book of the Old Testament is Proverbs ; the middle
chapter, Job 29th ; the middle verse, 2 Chronicles, chap. 20, between 17th and 18th verses;
the last verse, 1 Chronicles, 25th verse. The 21st verse of chap. 7, Ezra, has all the
letters of the alphabet. Chap. 19, 2 Kings, and chap. 37, Isaiah, are alike. The middle
"book of the New Testament is 2 Thessalonians ; the middle chapter is between 13 and
14, Romans ; the middle verse is 17th verse, chap. 17, Acts; the least verse ischap. 11, John,
35th verse. The word " and" occurs in the Old Testament 35,543,times ; in the New,
10,684 times. The word 11 Jehovah" occurs in the Bible 6,855 times.

Digitized by

POETRY. ADDRESSES.

The Schoolmaster's Promise. — " Boys," said our old schoolmaster smilingly one day,
" I am about to bargain with you for good behaviour. I desire that you will conduct
yourselves with decorum for one week, and I will promise to show you a curiosity— what
no* one ever saw, and, having shown it to you, what no one will ever see again!" An
anxious week followed — a week of curiosity, bewilderment, hope, and pleasure in embryo.
Out of school it was all the talk — " What no one ever saw, and what no one will ever see
again!" What oould it be? Another and another day, until at last Saturday dawned
upon the gladdened young hearts. Nine o'clock came ; every urchin was at his post-
books and slates all in readiness — every task fully committed to memory : altogether t
charming state of affairs. An active mind not wedded too closely to orthodox ideas would
divine at once the great advantage of rewards and kindness over oppression and
cruelty. "Tinkle, tinkle !" sounded the bell ; that bell had a voice as well as a tongue.
Mr. Birchem entered, seated himself, then raised the lid of his desk, and drew the
wonderful thing forth, adjusted his ominous-looking spectacles astraddle his nasal
projection, and proceeded to the solemn ceremony, saying, *• The hour has at length
arrived. Behold in my upraised finger a single nut. In this nut is a kernel"
Ceremoniously breaking the shell and exposing the tiny thing to view, he continued, "This
no one ever saw ;" then opening his capacious jaws, he thrust in the mysterious kernel,
crushed and swallowed it ! " Boys !" exclaimed he, with great emphasis, " boyi, yon will
never — I shall never — no one ever will see that kernel again ! To your lessons, you
rascals, every one of you !"

POETRY.

"LOVE ONE

" Lore ono another !" said John of the past,

And the words glitter brilliantly yet ;
The " children" he spoke to hare gone with the blast,
And nations hare lived, but hare not lired to last

Like the word-gems that mighty one set

" Lore one another !" How often expressed

By the fathers and pastors of yore !
Those who were hearers and doers were blessed,
But the many would drive it away from their breast,

And destruction on each other pour.

« 1 Lore one another !" Oh, did the words lie

Buried deep in the spirit of man,
Would the scenes of dark wretchedness still meet the
eye,

Which we in the world now so often espy ?
No A heaven of bliss we would scan.

" Lore one another ! M The sweet sound is felt
By the pure whom Jehorah hath sent

Birmingham,

ANOTHER."

To teach us his laws, that the ice crust might melt
From the hearts of all those who its coldness hare m,
And to passionate hate gireo rent

"Love one another !" Aye, let the lcre grow

Among all the Saints of the Lord :
Before us what glorious prospects flow,
Bnwraping our souls with a heavenly glow,

If the Saints but in feeling accord.

"Lore one another:" ToZionwego,

Where the heart can be filled with pure love,
For the past old friends and the preseut ones too,
Where our kin of all times we will strive to endue
With the power which governs above.

By lore we shall conquer— by lore we will save:

Let us get it engrafted within,
That its power may urge to the deeds of the brave,
To vanquish the Devil and every vile knave

Who might tempt through our passions, to tin.

F. W. Buuu.

Adwotssks.— C. H. Rhees, 6, Orange Grove, Devizes, Wilts.

Joseph F. Smith, 103, Hodgson Street, Shemeyi.

CONTENTS.

Views on Out- door Preaching 433 Joseph F. Smith, W. BramalL and C H. Rhees 4tt

Know the Lord 434 News from Utah 445

History of Joseph Smith. 437 Summary of News and Passing Events. ~ ... «**

Editorial— Fulfilment of Prophecy— Its Dispa- Varieties .. 447

ragemrat by Unbelievers «... 440 Poetry.—" Love One Another." « ~ **

Correspondence. — England : Letter from Elders Addresses 4i*

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 48, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET CROSS STREW
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOICSELLKKS.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAK.

A noite thaU tome mn to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controtvrtywUktbenationi: hewM
pUad with ail fieeh; he %uiU give than that are wicked to the tword, taith the LordJ 1 -

Ko. 29, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, July 20, 1881.

Price One Fenny.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD IN NORWICH, JUNE 30, 1881.

Half-past 10, a.jn.

Present of the Presidency of the
European Mission — Amasa M. Lyman
and Charles C. Rich.
* . Ihgsident of the District— Elias H.
BW&urn. President of the Confer-
ence, Richard Bentley, with a numerous
body of Elders and others of the Priest-
hood pertaining to the Conference.

Conference called to order by Presi-
dent Bentley. The Saints sang—" The
morning breaks, the shadows flee."
Prayer offered by President Blackburn.
The Saints sang — " How firm a founda-
tion, ye Saints of the Lord."

President Blackburn said — It affords
me much pleasure to have the privilege
of again seeing your faces and beholding
jou once more met together in a Con-
ference capacity. For this I am thank-
ful to my Heavenly Father. This
morning I presume we shall occupy in
attending to business transactions. I*
told you at our last Conference that we
would keep a strict account of our
finances, and give you a report of their
expenditure. We are come this morning
prepared to fulfil our promise. Let us
tceep ourselves here, but leave our
Jiouses, -our cattle, and all our business
matters at home, and have our faith
-centred in Christ, that we may have
Ills blessings upon us.

I will first call upon President Bentley
to lay before us the standing of the
Saints throughout the Conference, and
to give us a report of its finances, so
that everybody may be satisfied, and
none have to say that the money that *
has been raised has been misused. I
pray that the Spirit of God may be with
us to-day, that we may be able to laj
aside every evil, and have the blessings
of God to be with us.

Elder Bentley said — Brethren and
sisters, I am thankful for the privilege
of meeting with you. It is the first
time that I have seen so many of the
Saints of the Norwich Conference to-
gether, and I hope it won't be the last
time. I am glad to see so manj pre-
sent to hear the instructions of the
brethren who have come to visit us.
In complying with the request of PresU
dent Blackburn, I will say that I am
pretty well acquainted with the feelings
of the people, and know that the Saints
are feeling first-rate, increasing in the
Spirit of the Lord and in good works.
Tnere are a few who do not live up to
their privileges, but they are few. I
am happy to say that many of those
who have strayed from the fold are re-
turning, and are now feeling better
than they have ever done before. I
believe the Saints ar* doing better tern-

Digitized by

Google

450'

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE*

E orally. Trade is a little better ; and I
ope the Saints will be able to lay aside
a little of their means to liberate them-
selves from these lands, that they may
go home to Zion.

The financial report was then read,
when Elder Bentley continued — We
have during the last half-year baptized
4 1 , em igrated 20, and eu t off2 . I will now
give way for President Rich, and pray
that the Spirit of the Lord may be with
us to prepare our minds for any instruc-
tions he may have to give ; and may God
bless you ! Amen.

President Rich said — I feel very
thankful to meet with the Saints in
this place, and to hear the good report
that nas been given. It always affords
me great pleasure to hear that the
Saints are keeping the commandments
of God ; but if, on the contrary, the
Saints are not doing this, it occasions
within me feelings of sorrow. It is com-
mon at Conferences to present the
authorities of the Church, as Confer-
ences are held for the purpose of attend-
ing to business matters. But before
attending to this, it will be well for the
feelings of the Saints to be understood
in relation to the financial report already
read. I wish it to be understood that
the Saints are free to vote as they please
— just as they feel, as it is not merely the
raising of the hand, but it is a solemn
covenant that we will sustain those
brethren by our faith and prayers, and
by living according to their instructions.

The following resolutions were then
submitted to the Saints by President
Rich, and carried unanimously : —

That we are satisfied with the finan-
cial report as read by President Bentley :
That we sustain President Brigham
Young as Prophet, Seer, and Revelator
to the Church in all the world :

That we sustain Heber C. Kimball
as his First, and Daniel H. Wells as his
Second, Counsellors :

That we sustain the Quorum of the
twelve Apostles, with Orson Hyde as
their President :

That we sustain all the constituted
authorities of the Church in Zion as they
bow stand:

That we sustain Amasa M. Lyman,
Chirles C. Rich, and George Q. Cannon
as the Presidency of the European Mis-
sion and adjacent countries :

That we sustain Elias H. Blackburn
as President of the Norwich District:

That we sustain Richard Bentley as
President of the Norwich Conference :

That we sustain John Miller, George
Webb, and Septimus Sears as Travelling
Elders in the Norwich Conference.

President Rich continued— I am very
thankful to see the unanimity of feeline
manifested by the Saints. They all feel
one. It is the same spirit as that
which manifests itself in our mountain
home, and it is the same wherever we
go, with but few exceptions ; and this is
a proof unto us that we see alike and
are one ; and it is this that produces the
happiness we enjoy. We nave all em-
braced the same principles, and it has
made us one. The object that we have
in view in embracing the Gospel is sal-
vation. Now, if it had not in it the
power to save, it would be worthless ; but
having that power, it is worth every-
thing. Then inasmuch as we wish for
happiness and salvation, we must obey
it, and free ourselves from everything
outside of it. We must keep in the line
of our duties, as that is tne way we
shall find happiness. We have received
the Spirit of the Lord, which fills us with
joy and peace-, but when we begin to
depart from the Gospel, we begin to reap
sorrow and sadness. These are matters
for our consideration. It is for us to
know whether the principles we imbibe
are principles of truth, principles from
heaven ; for if they are, they will pro-
duce happiness; but if they are untrue,
we shall realize the opposite of this. As
Jesus says, "A good tree will bring forth
good fruit, but a corrupt tree will bring
forth evil fruit."

We are free agents. We can receive
in our hearts that which is truth, or we
can reject the truth and receive evil.
We must separate ourselves from prin-
ciples which are impure, or we shall be
found in a state of corruption. It is
something we must attend to every day
of our lives.

I know that some people, when they
talk about the Gospel and its benefit!,
will put off those benefits beyond this
life ; but not so with us. The Gospel
has found us in our corruptions and ig-
norance, and it is given for the express
purpose of saving us frj>m these thing.
We find the Gospel operates upon us in
educating, us as the training of a school

Digitized by

MINUTES OP A CONFERENCE.

451

operates upon our children in their edu-
cation. Our children are taught in the
sciences by those appointed to instruct
them, and have sometimes to receive
many lessons before they can compre-
hend what they are taught ; and thus it is
with us — the Gospel teaches us ; and by
its teachings we are enabled to see our
evils, and by our forsaking them we gain
salvation.

The Gospel does not come to us by
chance, but it comes to us from heaven,
to give us salvation and eternal life.
What is eternal life P The Scriptures
say, " This is eternal life, to know thee
the only true God, and Jesus Christ
whom thou hast sent." We can never
get it upon any other principle. We
have to be taught the principles of
eternal life.

Is there anything wrong among you ?
If there is, it is because you or some
others have been agents to produce
that wrong. It is no proof that we are
doing right because we are doing the
best we know. No. We look into the
world, and we find this man saying, M Th is
is right," and another saying, " This is
right ;" and though their ideas may be
opposed to each other, they may be doing
the best they know ; yet it is these differ-
ences that have produced in the world
what may be called " Spiritual Babylon,"
where there is nothing else but confu-
sion and disunion. But God has raised up
his servant and sent us the Gospel, and
we see alike, feel alike, and do alike ;
and it produces the result that I have
referred to this morning. I love a
Gospel that teaches me to look to the
present ; but I would not trust myself
to one that leaves the enjoyment of the
blessings to be derived from it to some
period in the future, nor would I
recommend it to others.

The Devil has to be bound ; but will
it be with a great chain, as many people
imagine ? When we get knowledge and
power to overcome evil, we will bind
him. He only has power where he can
find individuals willing to be led by him.
It is for us, then, to do right, and to
4 leave that which is wrong. What is the

Seat cause of the many wrongs that
ere are in the world P It is ignorance.
Now, could I get you to place your
hands in the fire ? No. Why P Because
you know that such an act would pro-
duce pain and sorrow. It is the same

with wrong in any other shnpo. To
free mankind from their wrongs, we
must teach them what those wrongs are,
get them to forsake them, and teach
them what is right. Satan will then
have no power, but will be bound.

Now, I know that many are desirous
to learn the mysteries of the kingdom
of God, and especially when any of the
Twelvt come along ; but I will say
that I am not come to teach such things,
unless our every-day duties be the
mysteries of the kingdom. We must
learn what are the duties of to-day,
and do them, as the duties of to-morrow
cannot be performed by us to-day. To
do the duties of the present is all that
is necessary, and it is all that is required
of us. I am always thankful when I
have knowledge sufficient to enable me
to perform my present duties ; and I do
know, and will bear this record, that
the Lord is more willing to bestow than
we are to receive. Let me impress
upon your minds, therefore, the neces-
sity of attending to present duties, that
we may secure present lalvation ; but
if we do not do right ourselves, and lay
aside our wrongs, we shall have to de-
pend upon others, for we shall not have
the keys to unlock the doors that will
open up unto us present salvation. The
principles of eternal life are free to all ;
and if we have them not, it is because,
when we have them presented to us, we
do not accept them.

You see, my brethren and sisters,
we come to this conclusion, that when
we have embraced the Gospel and made
our covenants with God, we should
have no time to commit wickedness,
but should have within us a full flow of
the Spirit of the Lord.

Nationality is a feeling very prevalent
in the world ; but we should feel that
our interest is in the kingdom of God,
for that alone will stand for ever. As
Jesus taught his disciples to pray,
" Thy kingdom come ; thy will be done
on earth as it is in heaven." Now,
what will hinder us from enjoying a
full flow of happiness, if such a state of
things exist P Why, we shall have the
same happiness and heaven as are en-
joyed in the eternal worlds; but we
have got to bring about this state of
things ourselves oy doing right and
leaving our wrongs, or it will never
come.

Digitized by

452

MINT7TE8 OF A CONFERENCE.

May God bless us and give us his
Spirit, that we may overcome and be
sanctified by the truth, is my prayer in
the name of Jesus. Amen.

The Saints sang — " Praise to the man
who communed with Jehovah."

Benediction by Elder Bentley,
when the meeting adjourned.

Half-past two, p.m.

Conference called to order by Elder
Bentley. The Saints sang — " Lo,
the Gentile t chain is broken." Prayer
offered by Elder Bentley. The
Saints sang — " Now let us rejoice in the
day of salvation."

The sacrament was administered by
Elders Rackham and Crompton, during
which the Saints sang — " God, the
eternal Father."

President Lyman said — I am happy to
have the privilege of meeting with you
on the present occasion. I do not need
to teacn you that there is no religion in
the world, as I am persuaded that you
believe that there is no lack of that ;
but we have come amongj you to give
you some of our views in relation to
the religion you have received. Our
object is to get the Saints to entertain
consistent and truthful ideas of the re-
ligion they profess and love, and for
which they entertain feelings of devo-
tion. It is not to get you to be more
proficient in your Sabbath-day toilet,
nor to instruct you as to the demeanour
to be exercised by you while at meet-
ing ; but to get you to understand why
you go to meeting, and why vou are
susceptible of joy and sorrow, of happi-
ness and misery. I have not come here
to worship religion, nor to get you to
do it, but to get you to understand the
principles of your religion.

The religion of the miser is his devo-
tion to the gold that he worships, and
any man following after the highest
object of his affections and regard
evinces by his devotion to the object that
it is his religion ; and I wish you to
understand that there is one great
object in our being religious — in our
being Latter-day Saints. This object is
not the building of a house or a city, or
in adorning our tabernacles (which
wealth might give us the power to do) ;
nor is it to be gained by our being
robed in the tattered habiliments of
poverty ; but our object is the benefit of

the soul (and when we say the soul, we
mean the man, the woman, the child of
God,) by the development in itself of
that knowledge of God which is eternal
life, thus providing the development of
salvation and glory for humanity. It
is for this that we struggle on through
a variety of circumstances ; it is for
this I wish you to be religious.

You need all the ability you possess,
because you have uses for it ; and you
need to cultivate and seek an increase
of it, because the path upon which yon
have entered will have no end ; and
eternal life is constituted of the know-
ledge of God you may gain, as you
pursue your endless journey in truth's
interminable path.

Were you in possession of a rich
jewel, you would seek to secure it in a
place where it could not be torn away
from you ; so I wish you to feel in
regard to the jewel which should be in
the possession of every Latter-day
Saint, which jewel is eternal life — the
means of obtaining endless enjoyment.
Jesus says, "Lay up for youselves
treasures in heaven, where neither
moth nor rust doth corrupt, and
where thieves do not break through
nor steals Where, then, shall we lay up
our treasures P In ourselves, and let
that treasure be a continued increase
of the knowledge of God which leadeth
to eternal life, which can never be torn
from us : thieves cannot steal it, the
imparting of it to others will not
decrease it in ourselves, nor will it be
subject to rust or decay, but it will live
for ever.

You will then have a reason for the
hope that is within you — that which the
ancient Apostle talked about when he
exhorted the Saints to be able at all
times to jjive a reason for the hope thai
was within them. Let that reason be
before you in all you do as Saints. Let
this bright star of hope ever be your
guide while struggling with hardship
and privation, and should you be
interrogated while thus struggling, that
your answer may be — " I am seeking
for and laying a foundation to obtain
endless enjoyment and happiness." m

It is for this you were baptized ; it is
for this you received the Holy Ghost ;
it is for this you have partaken of the
emblems of Jesus' body and blood ; it is
for thia you gather to the home of the

Digitized by

MINUTES OP A CONFERENCE.

453

Saints; and as they increase in this

yit in Zion, she will become the joy
the whole earth, simply because
there will be less corruption and more
purity, because all will come there who
wish to partake of that salvation which
God has to bestow in its fulness.

I know that many people have
thought that religion consisted merely
in going to church, paying their tithing,
and just attending to some other duties ;
but this would make our religion some-
thing that is meagre, mean, and low, —
doing no more than the door that moves
to-and-fro on its hinges. Of such reli-
gion there is plenty in the world. For
me such religion has no charms. Why?
Because it brings nothing to bless me.
I have wants ; and when I estimate my
wants, I believe I know what your wants
are ; and we need a religion that will
supply those necessities and lead us on
to purity and holiness.

I wish you to act towards others in
the world as becometh Saints of God,
and bless them that curse you. When
they revile you, use harsh language to-
wards you, or persecute you, do it not
to them. Show them that you are Saints
of God, remembering that they possess
sensibilities the same as you do. Do
not, therefore, tell them that their God
is no God at all ; for they are, many of
them, as honest as you are, and walk
as far as you do to-day to worship God,
and are even willing to go to the stake
for their religion's sake ; and what can
they do more P Do not get angry with
them, but exemplify your religion in
your lives, by doing to others as you
wish them to do to ^rou.

When you worship, do it not only be-
cause of the knowledge you have al-
ready received, but for a purpose that
is more acceptable to God than this,
which is to seek after more knowledge.
We should do this for two reasons ; the '
first, because it is necessary to the ac-
complishment of the purpose for which
we had a.being on the earth — namely,
that we should constantly increase in
knowledge ; the second, because of the
blessings brought to us by such increase
cf knowledge.

I wish you not to be satisfied merely
with the guide-board, er, in other words,
the Bible and the ordinances of the
Gospel ; for they are merely the indica-
tions to us that life and heaven are

somewhere to be obtained ; but I wish
you to increase in the knowledge of true
principles, that you may know Jesus
Christ ; and when you know the Son,
you will learn that as is the Son so also
is the Father; and thus we .attain to
eternal life.

We are baptized, covenanting before
God that we enter into his service, and
are starting out to gain that much-
desired object. We are confirmed, that
we may receive the fulfilment of the
promise to us of the Holy Ghost to lead
us into all truth, just in proportion as
we are willing to receive it. It is for
this same object that we form our asso-
ciations, that what is begun in the
individual may be realized and extended
through all our social relations. Let us
continually cultivate that frame of
mind, that the Holy Ghost may be a
welcome guest ; and then the prospects
of a glorious future will continually be
with us to stimulate and strengthen us
in the ways of truth.

These are some of the views that I
wish you to entertain in regard to your
religion. For this reason I wish you
to gather home to Zion. Why P Because
there is less wickedness there — because
there are more in the community there
who love and obey the truth than here.
How happy you would be, if all the ,
people in Norwich were Saints. But it is
not so: therefore I wish you to go
home.

You should feel that you are ennobled
by your religion, and do not hang down
your heads as though you had done
something you were ashamed of ; but
endeavour to sustain the dignity of that
relationship which exists between God
as your Father and yourselves as his
children. In short, I wish you to live
your religion — to make every exertion

Cible for your deliverance from these
Is, and you will grow in the cause
of truth ; and may this be the result of
your efforts, is my prayer in the name
of Jesus Christ. Amen.

The Saints sang— 44 my Father, thou
that dwellest."

When the meeting adjourned. Bene-
diction by President Rich.

Half-past 6, p.m.
Conference was called to order by
Elder Bentley. The Saints sang—
44 Though deep'ning trials throng your
way." Prayer offered by President

Digitized by

454

HI8T0&Y OF JOSEPH SMITH.

Blackburn. The Saints san^ — «• Though
nations rise and men conspire."

President Lyman delivered a very
interesting discourse on the design of
God to establish his kingdom on the
earth in the various dispensations that
have passed; but that, owing to the
peculiar circumstances by which the
people had been surrounded, hispurpose
had not been accomplished: that the

Constitution of the American Govern-
ment was such as to allow of its
establishment; and, being commenced, it
would, according to the prediction of
the Prophet Daniel, stand for ever.

The Saints sang — Zion, when I
think on thee."

Benediction by Bresident Rich.

Jambs Woods,
s Clerk of Conference,

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continmed from page 440.)

Joseph Smith sworn : Said — I must com-
mence when Francis M. Higbee was
foaming against me and the Municipal
Court in my house. Francis M. Higbee
Baid he was grieved at me, and I was
grieved at him. I was willing on my part
to settle all difficulties ; and he promised, if
I would go before the City Council and tell
them, he would drop everything against me
for ever.

I have never mentioned tie name of
Francis M. Higbee disrespectfully from that
time to this, but have been entirely silent
about him. If any one has said that I have
spoken disrespectfully since then, they have
lied ; and he cannot have any cause what-
ever. I want -to testify to this court of
what occurred a long time before John C.
Bennett left this city. I was called on to
visit Francis M. Higbee. I went and found
him on a bed on the floor.

[Here follows testimony which is too
indelicate for the public eye or ear ; and we
would here remark that so revolting, corrupt,
and disgusting has been the conduct of most
of this clique, that we feel to dread having
anything to do with the publication of their
trials. We will not, however, offend the
public eye or ear with a repetition of the
foulness of their crimes any more.]

Bennett said Higbee pointed out the spot
where he had seduced a girl, and that he
had seduced another. I did not believe it.
' I felt hurt and laboured with Higbee about
it. He swore with uplifted hands that he had
lied about the matter. I went and told the
girl's parents, when Higbee and Bennett
made affidavits, and both perjured them-
selves ; thev swore false about me so as to
blind the family. I brought Francis M.
Higbee before Brigham Young, Hyrum
Smith, and others, (Bennett was present,)
when they both acknowledged that they had
done these things, and asked us to forgive
them. I got vexed ; my feelings had been
hurt. Higbee has been guilty of adulterous
communication, perjury, &c. ; which I am

able to prove by men who heard them

confess it.

I also preferred charges against Bennett
— the same charges which I am now telling;
and he got up and told them it was the
truth, when he pleaded for his life, and
begged to be forgiven. This was his own
statement before sixty or seventy men : he
said the charges were true against him and
Higbee.

I have been endeavouring to throw oat
shafts to defend myself, because they were
corrupt, and I knew they were determined
to ruin me. He has told the public that he
was determined to prosecute me because I
slandered him, although I tell nothing but
the truth.

Since the settlement of our difficulties I
have not mentioned his name disrespectfully.
He wants to bind up my hands in the
Circuit Court, and make me pay heavy
damages for telling the truth.

In relation to the conspiracy, I have not
heard Francis M. Higbee say he would take
away my life ; but Chauncey Higbee,
Charles A. Foster, and Dr. Foster said they
would shoot me; and the only offence
against me is telling the truth. I did say
that Dr. Foster s<ole a raw hide. These are
the things that they now want to ruin me
for— for telling the truth.

When riding in the stage, I have seen
him put his hands in a woman's bosom, and
he lifted up her clothes. I know that they
are wicked, malicious, adulterous, bad
characters : I say it under oath : I can tdl
all the particulars from first to last

Brigham Young sworn : With regard to
Francis M. Higbee, at the time that is
spoken of I stopped opposite Mr. Laws
store: we had been conversing with Dr.
Bennett. When I came into the room,
Francis Higbee rather recoiled and wished
to withdraw : he went out and sat upon a
pile of wood. He said, " It is all true ; I am
sorry for it ; I wish it had never happened.
I understood Bennett, who related some «

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

455

the circumstances : he cried and begged of
ns to forgive him, and said if he could be
permitted to stay in the city as a private
individual he should be happy. That was
about what he said — " It is true, I am sorry
for it, and I wish it had never been so," as
we came up. Dr. Bennett, Mr. Higbee,
and Mr. Smith had been talking about it.
I have iiot mentioned it before. I knew of
the whole affair. It was on the 4th of July,
or a few days after : it was shortly after I
came from England. I was in the City
Council when Mr. Higbee said all was
settled.

Cross-examined: I have heard Dr.
Bennett say all these things were facts ; he

acknowledged that Higbee had the ,

and that he doctored him ; he acknowledged
that, and a great deal more.

I will make one statement. In our con-
versation with Dr. Bennett, I told him that
one charge was seducing young women, and
leading young men into difficulty ; and he
admitted it. He said if he hal let young men
and women alone, it would have been better
for him.

Sidney Rigdon sworn : In relation to the
matters before the court, I am unacquainted
with them. I was sick at the time, but I
have heard them talked of back and fro.

Cross-examined : I recollect Joseph Smith
came to me with a complaint against
Higbee and Bennett, and made affidavit
that it was true. I have the affidavit in my
house. I went to see Higbee on last Satur-
day, and found him at Mr. Morrison's,
where he was waiting for a steam-boat. I
endoavoured to prevail on him to relinquish
his undertaking. He said he had no character
in Nauvoo, and therefore he had none to
lose. I tried to convince him that he had
a character, and might be looked upon with
respect ; but he flatly contradicted me and
said he had none, and that was the reason
why he persecuted Joseph Smith ; as he had
do character he did not care what he did ; he
had nothing to lose by it. That was the
substance of our conversation.

Hyrum Smith sworn : I recollect a settle-
ment of difficulties between Francis M.
Higbee and my brother Joseph, about which
some of the court may recollect. I recollect
Dr. Bennett asking forgiveness of the lodge,
when there were about sixty present.
Francis M. Higbee acknowledged that it
was the truth, and that he was sorry, and
had been a thousand times; he acknow-
ledged his connection with the woman on
the hill. I did think he was with Dr.
Bennett at the time.

The statement of Dr. Bennett was that
he was guilty; he was sorry and asked
forgiveness : he said he had seduced six or
seven ; he acknowledged it, and said if he

was forgiven he would not be guilty any
more. Francis said he knew it was true ;
he was sorry and had been a hundred times.
The very things that we had challenged him
with he acknowledged. I told Francis that
it had better be settled. He aid Joseph had
accused • im, and if his character was gone
all was gone : he said he would settle it, and
they went into the room. He did not deny
any charge ; he said he was scrry, that he
wanted it buried, and it was agreed to do
so. Francis did not say anything about his
sickness, but Dr. Bennett made those
observations to him — that he had doctored
him in the time of his sickness.

Cross-examined: I asked Francis if he
did not tell Dr. Bennett that he had seduced
a girl P He replied, " I told Dr. Bennett
that I did seduce her, but I tell you I never
did it ; I told him so for my own notion of
things." I do not recollect his saying
that he had got a bad disorder with the
French girl ; he said he should not have been
seduced if*it had not been for Dr. Bennett.
When charged with them, Franc is said they
were true, that they were alleged a hundred
times : he said, 1 will alter ; I will save my
character." I have never heard from brother
Joseph anything about his character ; Joseph
did not accuse him .of anything before the
police : he said Francis had better take care.
Francis was a little dissatisfied, but that
difference was settled ; I was present. He
said he would not receive anything again
from abroad ; he would not take any steps
by hearsay ; he would come to him and tell
him. There were several present when this
took place.

Porter Rockwell sworn: He recollected
the conversation, but not very distinctly;
but he did recollect that Francis M. Higbee
acknowledged to Joseph Smith that he was
guilty of the charges preferred against him.

Court adjourned for one hour and a half.

Court met.

Mr. Wheelock sworn : With regard to this
case, I know nothing but through a circum-
stance which occurred at Nashville. Elder
James Blakeslee came to my house to
preach ; he preached and was upholding the
authorities of the Church very much : he
came over here and apostatized the same
day. I then came over and went to see ; I
asked him why he had changed his mind so
quick P * He said he had seen affidavits of
the guilt of Mr. Smith. He told me Mr.
Higbee was going about to the different Con-
ferences. I told him I thought he had better
send some one else ; his conduct was not the
best, and I know of circumstances that were
not right. Once I was a mate on a steam-
boat, and Higbee was clerk : we had not
I much cabin; we had some females on

Digitized by

466

U6T0HY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

board. 1 and another had! given up our
room to some ladies for the night ; it was
my watch, and I went into the cabin for my
buffalo rote about one o'clock in the night,
when I saw him leaning over the berth
where one of the ladies slept. This was in
the night, and he had no business there ;
no gentleman had any right there. I gave
up my berth to the ladies, and I felt indig-
nant at such conduct ; his conduct towards
the lady passengers was unbecoming, and
particularly in one who professes so much
virtue as he does now.

Joel S. Miles sworn : I have seen Francis
M. Higbee go into rooms with females, but
what their intentions were I do not know. I
might have seen him two or three times. I
think he has done that which is not right ;
I should judge, from conversations with him,
that that was the case : I presume he has a
good many times ; I might recollect twenty
times : he has frequently told me things of
that kind. It is a private case, to be sure.
He has told me that he had commenced an
action against Joseph Smith for slander. I
met Francis to-day ; I asked him about the
fuss, when he said he had got Mr. Smith
up for slander ; he said he should not come
here, but did not say why. I recollect the
time that he was sick* when Dr. Bennett
attended him ; I went to see him nearly
every day. I understood Mr. Higbee to
say that he was prosecuting Mr. Smith for
slander, and that be was up before the
Municipal Court. He told me he supposed
I was wanted to prove that he was a thief,
whoremaster, and everything else.

Henry G. Sherwood sworn : I have several
times had conversations with Higbee. I
recollect that near two years ago there was
a fuss about John C. Bennett's spiritual
wife system before the High Council. I
recollect a French woman coming up from
Warsaw, and that Francis M. Higbee had
medical assistance. * * * *
Dr. Bennett attended him. Joseph Smith
administered unto him, but it was irksome.
Higbee assented that it was so : he did not
contradict it ; he promised to reform ; he
would do better ; he would do so no more.

Heber C. Kimball sworn : I think it is
near two years ago since I had a conversa-
tion with Francis M. Higbee. He expressed
himself indignant at some things. He ex-

Sressed himself that he was sorry. He would
ve a new life. He would never say a word
against President Joseph Smith. He had
an inclination to write that what he had
published was false. I exhorted him to go
and recall what he had said. I afterwards
saw him in Cincinnati, when he promised
by everything sacred that he would come
home, reform, and then go and publish this
doctrine, for it was true.

He said he had taken a course that was
wrong towards President Smith, and was
sorry for it. He said he would study at
Cincinnati, for his character was ruined
here. When we were in Quincy, I went
over to Missouri, and exhorted him to alter
his conduct The last time I conversed
with him, he said — " If I had taken your
counsel, I should now have been a man
looked on with respect." He said ht^was
not connected with the people that opposed
President Smith, and never would. He
much regretted the course he had taken.

Joseph Smith : The statement I made out
against Francis M. Higbee I have proved to
be facts, and therefore it is not slander. I
have testified boldly, and have brought wit-
nesses to prove him to be an adulterer and
a vicious man. I did not do it until he
began to use his evil influence against me.
If I had been to blame, and he had got the
least chance, he would have been here. He
knows I am here, and all know that they
have nothing against me. I have proved
all that I ever testified : the court would be
bound to discharge me on account of having
proved it.

There are very few lawyers who know the
great principle of the Habeas Corpus Act.
Ask a lawyer, and he does not know, but that
he has got to go to some judge. The U. S.
District Judge (Pope) has been one of the
Supreme Judges of the State ; his decision
is that it should be as much in the-power of
the simple magistrate as of the greatest
Judge. Hence Governors and Supreme
Judges all know that I am correct. •

A simple magistrate shouldhave the right.
" The right of Habeas Corpus shall notbe de-
nied." It does not say by a Governor or
Judge ; who, then, does it mean ? All the
authorities. All Judges know that it is a
fact. If you hold the office of a magistrate,
and you are sworn to keep inviolate the
Constitution of the United States, you are
sworn to fulfil that nart which says that you
shall not refuse the privilege of the Habeas
Corpus to any one. I have only to open to
Blackstone or the Bible, and then 1 know
where powers are. I never said anything
about the Higbees, or the Laws, or the Fos-
ters, but what is strictly true. I have been
placed in peculiar circumstances.

The only sin I ever committed was in ex-
ercising sympathy and covering up their
iniquities, on their solemn promises to re-
form ; and of this I am ashamed, and never
will do so again.

After hearing the foregoing evidence in
support of said petition, it is considered and
ordained by the Court —

1st That the said Joseph Smith, senior,
be discharged from the said arrest and im-
prisonment complained of in said petition,

Digitized by

on the illegality of the writ upon which he
was arrested, as well as upon the writ of the
case, and that he go hence without delay.

2nd. Francis M. Higbee's character
having been so fully shown as infamous, the
court is convinced that this suit was insti-
tuted through malice, private pique, and
corruption, and ought not to be counte-

XDITO&IAL. 457

nanced ; and it is ordained by the court that
said Fiancis M. Higbee pay the costs.
' — ' — \ In testimony whereof I hereunto

{Seal X **and and affix the seal of

) said court at the city of Nauvoo,
, — ' this 8th day of May, 1844.
"Willard Richards, Clerk."

(Tobtoontbuud.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, July 20, 1861.

THE SAVIOUR AND HIS APOSTLES AS VIEWED BY THEIR
CONTEMPORARIES.

— — o

Notwithstanding the Bible is easy of access to all, and commonly read by a
laxge portion of the people, there is a remarkable amount of blind, unreasoning
ignorance manifested upon many points that are set forth in that record.
Probably upon no one point is there more of this manifested than in the popular '
opinion respecting the character of the Lord Jesus and his immediate disciples.*
So little idea have the major portion of professed Christians of the Lord and his'
Apostles' position in society, of their circumstances and their associates, and the
reasons (good in the estimation of the reputedly learned, religious, and polite
Pharisees,) the Jews had for treating them as they did, that they condemn wi^iout
stint a generation that could be so wicked as to persecute men of so holy a
character. They cannot perceive that the Jews had the slightest justification
for their cruel and dreadful conduct towards the Son of Gods and his recognized
servants, but think that, if they had been living in their days, they " would not
have been partakers with them in the blood of the Prophets." Whenever they
have seen Jesus and his Apostles represented in the cheap wood- cut, in the
elegant engraving, or the finished master-pieces of art, they have been so well
clad andjof such noble and commanding mien, (especially the Saviour, whose
heavenly features, encircled with a halo of glory, have indelibly impressed
themselves upon every mind,) that they have ceased to remember that there was
about him " no beauty that we should desire him," and that his disciples were a
rode, illiterate, ill-clad set of men. They forget what the Apostles themselves
have wri£ten about the Saviour's and their own surroundings, and wonder how
the Jews could be so blind as not to immediately recognize their Messiah.

But does this generation present any satisfactory evidence, by their acts, that
they would have been more likely to have received Jesus and his Apostles, and
honoured them, had they been living then, than the Jews did P If we were to
base our answer to this question upon our own experience, we would say, No ;
they do not : on the contrary, their conduct has proved that, if not the children,
they are at least the apt imitators, of those who killed the Prophets. They reject
the truth, kill the Prophets, persecute and malign the servants of God as bitterly,
and with as great hatred, and with no more justification, and upon no better
grounds than did the Jews eighteen centuries ago. And they do all this, too,

Digitized by

458

XDITOBIAL.

with no greater zeal for religion and no more sincere desire to do God service
than did their predecessors in that or any previous generation.

If men in these days can claim any extenuation for rejecting the truth, or for
refusing to believe and receive a servant of the Lord, because he does not come
up to their standard of what such a man should be, then surely the Jewish
nation contemporary with the Saviour might with propriety have asked for
leniency to have been extended to them. For were they not, in their thoughts,
justified in refusing to acknowledge him P He professed to be the Messiah, the
Son of God; but did they not know that he was the Son of Joseph the carpenter P
and did they not know his mother, his sisters, and his brothers? "No man
knoweth whence he is," was the opinion they entertained of the coming of the
Messiah; but did they not know whence Jesus was? The Scripture said that
Christ should come out of Bethlehem : but was he not a Galilean, and where
could the proof be found of a Prophet arising out of Galilee P Did not his own
brethren, who ought to have known that he was the Messiah, refuse to believe
in him? (John vii. 5.) Jesus said that he should he lifted up, signifying the
manner of his death ; but had they not heard out of the law that Christ should
abide for ever P

How palpably absurd, then, in view of all these and numerous other objections,
did the idea of his being the Christ, the Son of God, appear to such learned and
devout men as the Pharisees were ! With what zeal they must have felt to go
forth and striven to check the system when they had such " strong proofs" that
it was an imposture ! When compared with these, how rapidly do the " strong
proofs" which the same classes in this generation delight to urge against the
testimonies of Joseph Smith, stating that he was Divinely called to be a servant
of God by the direct ministration of heavenly beings, and that the Book of
Mormon is a true record translated by the gift and power of God into the English
language, dwindle into very insignificant, trifling objections! The Spaulding
story, when examined as evidence, is perfectly contemptible in comparison with
the stories circulated for the same purpose among the Jews ; and so with every
other " evidence" or objection brought against the work of God in these days.
The J ew8' evidences against the work then were better grounded and more plausible
than those in circulation against the work now. Tet this generation look with
scorn and unbounded indignation upon the nation that could reject so precious a
gift as the Gospel and crucify its Author, while guilty themselves of the same crime !

To a nation situated as the Jews were, there was nothing anymore attractive
in the person or doctrine of the Son of God than there would be to Christendom
at the present time. They were well versed in all the literature of the age,
especially that pertaining to their own nation. Their leading men were, learned,
devout, and ceremonious, valuing good society, scholarly acquirements, staid and
formal demeanour, religious observances, and a pious garb as highly as any body
of so-called Christian divines do now. How could they receive Jesus and his
Apostles, who possessed none of these requisites ? As well might Christendom
be expected to acknowledge Joseph Smith as a Prophet. For was nr t Jesus s
carpenter, one of the common people, and deficient in education, 41 having never
learned" ? (Mark vi. 3 ; John vii. 15.) Did he not lead a vagabond life, and
consort with the despised publicans and sinners P (Luke v. 30.) Did he not
manifest a (to the religious of that day) shocking contempt of long-established
and venerated usages and days, doing things which they looked upon as vety
bad P Was he not rude of speech and violent in demeanour P (Matt, xxiii. 1 3 — 33 ;

EDITORIAL.

459

John ii. 15.) And were not his Apostles 11 unlearned and ignorant" (Acts iv. 13.)
— many of them rough, uncouth fishermen, selected from the low and vulgar P
They possessed no refinement, and evinced no more* veneration for many usages
than did their Master, scandalizing the Pharisees and Scribes by their violation
of the traditions of the Elders by eating with unwashen hands ! and were even
thought by the Jews to be so anxious to deceive the people and keep up " the
imposture" as to steal the body of the Saviour from the tomb while the guards
slept, so that they could say he had risen from the dead !

Would any person imagine, by examining the prints, engravings, and paintings
scattered broadcast through the land, of the Son of God and his Apostles, and by-
listening to so-called Christian ministers discoursing in mellifluous tones upon
their lives and virtues, that they had ever occupied the positions they did,
or had ever been viewed in the manner they were P They depict them more as
they would like them to be than as they were ; and there can be no doubt about
the manner in which they would be treated, were they to revisit the earth and
present themselves, in the shabby attire they had used to wear, at some of the
fashionable buildings named after themselves. A modern Saint would be quite
as likely to gain admittance to the pulpit as the ancient Saint after whom the
edifice might be named. It is highly improbable that either would be in the least
desirous to enter one of them, unless it would be for the purpose of warning
them of their sins ; for the disposition to court the society of the great, to
quote, as a reason for not believing the truth, that the rulers and Pharisees have
not believed it, to wear a garb that would show all men that they were pious
to be great sticklers for observances and forms and ceremonies, to make long
prayers and appear righteous outwardly, to love the uppermost rooms at feasts
and the chief seats in the synagogues, to delightln greetings in public places, and
to be called" Reverend,'" 'Reverend," would remind the ancient Saint so much of
the practices of his old persecutors, that he would have no wish to remain
where they were.

People of this description, whether known as Pharisees or as Christians, can see
nothing attractive in the truth, or desirable in its messenger or bearer. The for-
mer is either a stumblingblock or foolishness, and the latter is not learned or
popular. Their vision is so distorted by the influence of the Adversary that
every beautiful feature of truth appears a deformity, and every deformity in the
world appears beautiful. Truly has the Lord said, " That which is highly es-
teemed among men is abomination in the sight of God." The Gospel and the
servants of God have never been highly esteemed among men : they have ever
been despised and hated in every generation. None but those who love the truth,
and place not their affections upon the world, can receive and cherish the testi-
mony of the servants of the Lord, or can perceive the beauty of, and embrace and
remain faithful to, the Gospel.

Abstract op News from the Conferences. — Elder Owen, in a letter from
Newport, Monmouthshire, dated July 8th, says " I am happy to inform you that
prospects are brightening here. Since I wrote last, we have baptized thirteen
persons. The people have commenced to take into consideration the importance
of paying their Tithing, and doing what they can towards their emigration."

Elder Liez says, in a letter dated the 4th instant from Preston :— " We have
commenced out-door preaching, and the people listen with great attention.
Brother Kay has been with us ten days, and has visited the Branches and fired
up the Saints, among whom I expect to see an increase of faith and good works."

460

COBBB8PONDXNCK.

NEWS FROM UTAH..

(From the " Dcseret News," of May 29, 1861.)

Appointments to the Territory. —
The Pony on Saturday evening brought
private letters to the city, through
which we learn of the appointment of
Mr. Martin, of Milwaukie, Wisconsin,
to the office of Superintendent of Indian
Affairs in this Territory. He has had
attached to his office a nephew of
Commissioner Dole as clerk. It is
understood that a successor to Mr.
Humphrey, the Indian Agent, has also
been appointed, but his name and resi-
dence have not yet transpired within
the range of our information.

Good News prom the South
Country. — On Saturday evening last,
Elder John B. Maiben returned from a
business tour through the southern
part of the Territory, on which he
started from this city on the 1st inst.
He reports having met President Young
and party at Cove Creek, some thirty-
eight miles below Fillmore, on the
evening of Monday the 20th, where they
camped that night, and would arrive
at Beaver the next day. On Wednes-
day, the 22nd, it was intended to visit
Mmersville, eighteen miles west of
Beaver ; and probably the party would
not reach Parowan till Friday evening.
They were all well and in fine spirits,
and had travelled from Fillmore to Cove

Creek on the day they were met by
Elder Maiben.

At Fillmore, which place they did
not reach till Sunday the 19th, a meet-
ing was held in the afternoon. A large
congregation assembled, which was
addressed by Presidents Young and
Wells, Elder John Taylor, and Bishop
Hunter. President Joseph Young, who
accompanied the party as far as Fill-
more, held meetings there on Monday
and Tuesday evenings.

Elder Maiben brings a good report
of matters and things in the Southern
settlements, and especially of the -crops
in Washington County, which he says
looked remarkably well. The wheat
was in the boot, and barley was further
advanced. He saw corn three feet
high that had not been planted a
month. The prospect for fruit below
the rim of the basin is excellent. The
grape vines are luxuriant, and apple,
peach,' and other fruit trees remarkably
thrifty, and some very young trees
heavily laden with fruit.

The express which left this city for
the President's party late on Wednes-
day night was met ten miles beyond
Nephi, and would arrive at Beaver
be&re the departure of the company
from that place for Parowan on Friday
morning.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

SOUTH DISTRICT.

Plymouth, July 5, 1861.
President Cannon, — I have of late
been down here in Devon and Cornwall,
trying to help brothers Pitt and Moody
in the Land's -End Conference. In
Hayle I sent the bellman round the
town, to give notice that I would hold
a religious meeting there, and at the
time appointed there were four or five
hundred to hear me preach, and a good,
quiet time we had. After I had
done, some of the people wanted to give
me money, and wanted to hear more of
44 Mormonism." I held another meet-

ing next day, and had a room full ; and
although in that town the Elders had
to pay for their beds, and could scarcely
get any food, after our meetings there
were four or five families that kindly
offered to give the Elders food at any
time they might call, and some to sleep
them. 1 have visited Falmouth and
other places, cheering the Saints and
giving counsel and instruction to the
Priesthood.

I am now in Plymouth, and we
have taken the Odd-Fellows' Hall,
and notified the people of the same.
I shall give the first lecture there next
Sunday night. In Devonport our meet-

Digitized by

CORRESPONDENCE.

ings are crowded. We hare baptized
six since I came down, and are going
to baptize six or eight more. I feel
that the work in this Conference will
soon move ahead.

God bless yon, and inspire your heart
for every duty ! With the same wish
for all your fellow-labourers, I subscribe
myself your brother in Christ,

George Halliday.

NOTTINGHAM DISTRICT.

Nottingham, July 6, 1861.

President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — At Grantham, in the
Lincolnshire Conference, on the 15th
ult., we held a Conference. There
were about thirty-five Saints that at-
tended the meeting and enjoyed them-
selves well.

The Conference is scattered over such
a large district of country that it takes
about a fortnight to go through it.

In the Nottingham, Derbyshire, and
Leicestershire Conferences I find a slow
but steady increase of the Spirit of the
Lord among the Saints. Throughout
this District the brethren are united
with me, feeling anxious to press for-
ward in tbe good work, and extend to
the best of their ability the welfare of
the cause of truth.

I am informed by brothers Nelson
and Orme that they get very good at-
tention, as a general thing, through
their Conferences, when preaching in
the open air. This we have turned our
attention to, and I fondly anticipate it
will result in much good.

I pray that the blessings of the Lord
may rest upon you and all the faithful
of his people. I remain your brother
in the Gospel,

James S. Brown,

DORSETSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Bridport, Dorset, July 2, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I am happy to be able
to report the Dorsetshire Conference in
a very good condition. I arrived here
from Jersey on the 4th ult., and was
kindly received by brothers Fuller,
Zyderlaan, and the Saints in general.
I have visited the several Branches and
found the Saints enjoying a goodly
portion of the Spirit of the Lord, but
haying very little of this world's goods.

461

Trade is at a very low ebb. Many of
the Saints are but partially employed,
and some of them idle altogether, which
makes it rather inconvenient on Satur-
day night.

Brother Zyderlaan, the Branch Pre- ,
sident, and the Priesthood in general,
are one with me, having a good desire
to bles*s each other, to build up the
Saints, and spread a knowledge of the
truth among the honest in heart. We
have had quite a number of baptisms
lately, and expect more soon.

Brother Bramall, the President of the
District, has made us a visit. We met
in Conference on Sunday, 23rd ult., and
truly we had an excellent time together.
The rich blessings of heaven were
poured out upon us, which filled every
heart with joy and gratitude, while the
bright and cheerful countenances of the
Saints bore testimony that they were
in possession of that spirit of peace,
which mortal man can neither give nor
take away.

Brother Bramall has since visited and
held meetings in all the Branches, and
his kind and fatherly instructions are
much appreciated by the Saints ; and,
all things considered, I feel that our
future prospects are encouraging, and
that a good work will be done. We
feel like doing our best, and leaving the
result in the hand of God.

As fbr myself, I feel well in the good
work, and the desire of my soul is that
I may have power and influence to bless
the Saints, to win the honest in heart
over to the truth, and, while I live, to do
all I can, in connection with my brethren,
to build up the kingdom of God upon
the earth, and bring in the long-expected
reign of righteousness and peace.

As ever, your servant in Christ,

Mark Barnes.

KENT CONFERENCE.

Faversham, July 4, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— In reading the epis-
tles of the brethren, as published in the
Star, I find in their different districts
the principal subject to be emigration
for next season. It certainly is the
topic most referred to in this Confer-
ence, and a great many are putting
forth their works as well as their faith
to the accomplishment of this object —

Digitized by

Google

462

C0BBK8PONDXNCE.

the gathering from here to our moan-
tain home.

On Sunday, the 23rd of June, we re-
ceived a visit from Presidents Lyman,
Rich, Brown, and Staines. Presidents
Lyman and Brown spent the day at
' Brighton, myself and the Saints there
being blest with good counsel and the

Sure principles of truth, which were de-
vered to us through them.
We have out-door preaching on Sun-
days in the different districts, but have
had very few chances on week days.
The people are mostly working until
very late in the evening, and are then
too tired to come together.

There are three Travelling Elders
labouring with me in this Conference —
Elders Neilson, Sanders, and Hillier,
single young men, and I believe devoted
to the cause of truth. The Conference
is divided into three districts. Presi-
dent Brown is now making a tour
through this Conference, and benefitting
the Saints with his counsels.

We have had no particularly exciting
times, while I have been here, in the
shape of mobbing or over-crowded
meetings ; yet in some parts of the
Conference our rooms are well filled,
and there is a gradually-growing inte-
rest in the work of God ; and most of
the Saints here are faithfully attending
to their duties. There are numbers
that are 44 almost persuaded," and I
think will soon be baptized. We have
baptized about thirty since I came here,
and three gave in their names for
baptism last Sunday.

With kind remembrance to brothers
Lyman and Rich, and those associated
with you in the Office, I remain your
brother in the Gospel of peace,

John NSedham.

reading conference.

Reading, July 9, 1861.
President Cannon,

Dear Brother, — Thinking possibly
yon desire to be made acquainted with
the condition of the Reading Conference,
I forward you a condensed report of the
same.

It will be unnecessary for me to
acquaint you with the amount of coun-
try we have to traverse. No doubt you
have been already informed upon that
point. Sufficient to say that " the boys
find they are truly Travelling Elders."

On account of the scattered condition
of the Saints, we find it difficult to exert
that good influence usually enjoyed by
frequently assembling together.

1 cannot say that all the Saints are
doing the best they can, but we have
many in this Conference who seek first
the kingdom of God and his righteous-
ness, believing in the promise that 44 all
things else shall be added unto them."
Some strive to walk by .sight, seem-
ing to forget that faith, which is the
gift of God, enabled them to rejoice in
the truth, and realize that according to
their day so they possessed strength.
Such have not their efforts crowned
with apparent success.

In baptism our figure (nineteen during
the past half-year,) is not very large,
but I feel proud in representing so
many. The difficulties attending us are
considerable. Every soul has to be
won by hard labour.

The feeling against 44 Mormonism" is
strong : most people know more about
it than you ever did or ever will
know— {reformation gleaned from authen-
ticated facts. No doubt this is the
most convenient way of discussing its
merits. Methinks the strictest sect of
the Pharisees would hide their dimin-
ished heads before the piety of this
town and surrounding country. Yet
I feel there is no profit in x their fighting
against God and his power — that all
efforts will be futile to stop His pur-
poses. The fulcrum (the Gospel,) and the
lever (the Priesthood,) are in the hands
of men divinely inspired, which will
topple over all man-made schemes,
scattering them as chaff before the
wind of the summer thrashing-floor,
revealing the work of God in all its
grace and beauty. It is needless for
me to mention financials: the usual
yearly report makes you fully ac-
quainted with each item.

Out-door preaching is carried on as
far as our limited means' .will allow,
with varied success. I might remark
that the " folks" are nearly preached to
death ; every shade of opinion has its
representative.

During the past quarter our numbers
have been considerably increased by the
transfer of Burbage Branch. The
Saints appear to be passing through
the 44 Valley of Death." I think ibe
transition from death unto life will be

Digitized by

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

463

most agreeable to tbem. I am free to
confess that it will be pleasure to me.

Concerning myself I feel well, wish
to display my faith through my works,
and with the brethren desire to labour,
that the good may improve, the indiffe-
rent become better, and the unwise be

taught to know- the ways of eternal
life.

Praying that the blessings of the
Lord may rest upon yourself, with
Presidents Lyman and Kich, I remain
your brother in Christ,

George Reed.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

GENERAL.

Spanish advices inform us that the
Republican faction at Loja has been com-

Sletely dispersed. The chief of the movement
as lost all his partisans.
The Lombardia of July 9 says — " It is
stated that the Austrian Government has
ordered all the Venetians who for political
reasons are imprisoned in Moravia, Bohemia,
and Styria, to be set at liberty and allowed
to return to their own country.

A letter from Wilna, the capital of Lithu-
ania, states that there is an insurrection of the
whole of Poland; one sentiment and one
spirit animate the people, and they believe
that the time for the recovery of their
national rights is approaching. At Wilna,
400 miles from Warsaw, the inhabitants
were by some unknown means suddenly
smitten with *• a spiritual contagion,"
and the national hymn was sung in
the churches and even in the streets.
Governor-General Nezimow consequently
issued an oider prohibiting the singing of
the hymn at any place or on any occasion ;
and he sent a peremptory command to the
clergy that this official document should be
read in all churches on the same Sunday at
the end of the sermon. The Sunday ar-
rived ; the churches were crowded ; but
when the usual time for a sermon approached,
no preacher could be found in any church to •
ascend the pulpit, though there are more
than sixty churches in the town. This
unanimity of horror felt by the clergy at
giving publicity to a measure so repugnant
to the feelings of the country is a strong
evidence that all classes identify themselves
with the national spirit. The time usually
occupied by the sermon was converted into
a sublime scene of intense emotion. The
people, after a short suspense, as if under
the influence of a sudden flash of clairvoy-
ance, threw themselves upon their knees,
and with more than ordinary fervency began
to sing the forbidden hymn.

The entire provinces of Kiev and Podolia
are infested and invested by a mighty army
of locusts. So thick and numberless are the
eggs, that in every shovelful of earth 80 eggs
may be counted. The ignorant peasantry,
even where the nature of the land admits of
the destruction of this pest, refuse to disturb
the terrible visitation, as they hold it to be a

unishment sent from heaven. The entire
arvest must fall before these vicious insects,
and famine must be the people's portion.

In India the area of distress is daily
widening. In , the neighbourhood of
Meerut and Bolundshuhr it would be diffi-
cult to exaggerate its intensity. From
Delhi the accounts represent the state of
affairs as worse. In the poorhoi se in that
city alone there were 9,000 inmates, while
many more starved-out labourers were em-
ployed on the public works. From Mooltan
and Scinde fears are entertained of the
failure of crops from the unnaturally low
state of the rivers, and the hopes of all rest
in an early rainy season. Another calamity,
however, has recently been added to this of
the failure of the crops. In the famine dis-
tricts the mortality among the cattle is ter-
rible.

Paris papers announce that an insurrec-
tion has broken out in the southern province
of Tankin, in Annam, and assert that the
inhabitants had refused the extraordinary
levy for continuing the war.

The latest accounts from the west coast
of Africa are very unsatisfactory and discou-
raging. A few turbulent and designing men,
stated to be agents of the King of Ashantee,
have induced the natives of Cape Coast to
clamour for the repeal of the poll-tax ; but
it is expected that when the people thoroughly
perceive the designs of the leaders, they will
support the British authorities.

AMERICA.

The American news is unimportant.
Skirmishes occur daily between the outposts
of the contending armies, but no serious
movement has yet taken place.

Prince Alfred arrived at Montreal on the
28th ult. , and was heartily received. He left
for Quebec on the 29th.

The Madri J papers of the 6th ult. publish
a telegram from Cadiz, stating that the
Haytians had invaded the territory of San
Domingo. Santana, Pelaez, and Alfan
were marching in haste to the frontiers.
Great armaments were being made in St.
Domingo. Enthusiasm prevailed among
the Spanish troops. A squadron of 18
vessels with had been despatched from
Havana,. Financial affairs at Havana
were in a bad condition.

Digitized by

VARIETIES. POETBY.

VARIETIES. •

Boiling Potatoes. — Let the potatoes lie in cold water six hours at least before boiling
(twelve hours for very old ones is not too long). Then put them into boiling water a little
salted, and the water should be kept at a moderate boil till they are done, which should be
tested with a fork ; then pour off the water and let them stand in the pot till dry. Great
care should be taken not to let them boil a moment after they are done, as it will render
them watery. An excellent plan to make old potatoes mealy is to turn them into a cloth
and rapidly shake them about, or take them one at a time in a cloth and slightly press
them. The larger potatoes should be put into the pot before the smaller ones, that they
may be equally done. It requires from forty to fifty minutes. New ones will take about
half the time.

Exploits of a Little Clergyman. — A few miles below , there now lives, and has

lived tor several years past, a worthy clergyman— a man, however, very short in stature*
Upon a certain Sunday, this clergyman was invited by the pastor of a church m that
village to fill his pulpit for the day. The invitation was accepted, and Sunday morning

sat Mr. in the pulpit. Now, it happened that the pulpit was a vexy high one, and

accordingly nearly hid the poor little clergyman from view. However, the congregation,
out of respect, managed to keep their countenances, and with over-pious faces seemed
religiously anxious for the text. They were not obliged to wait long, for a nose and two
little eyes suddenly appeared over the top of the pulpit, and a squeaking, tremulous voice
proclaimed the textr-" Be of good cheer ; it is I : be not afraid !" A general lit of
tittering followed the announcement : the clergyman became confused, and turned all
sorts of colours. Many, in the general uproar, left the church, and it was a long time
before the minister was able to proceed with the sermon, so abruptly broken off. Afternoon
came, and the little man, standing on a footstool, had a fair view of his audience. The
text was announced in due form — 44 A little while, and ye shall see me ; and again a little
while, and ye shall not see me." In the course of his sermon he repeated his text with great
earnestness, and, stepping back, lost his elevated footing, and disappeared from his
hearers ! . The effect may be more readily imagined than described.— Court Journal

POETRY.

ZION.

Ttticb — "Red, White, and Shu."

OZkm ! the light of the mountains,

The home of the pure and the free,
Where truth from thy heavenly fountains

The wise are beginning to see,
Hay the light of thy glory awaken

The world of mankind from their sleep,
That the honest may not be forsaken,

Nor left in their error to weep.

Lord, fill thy servants with power
To preach forth the truth to the world :

While the wicked each other devour,
Let the flag of the free be unfurled.

Holytown, Scotland.

Fill thy Priesthood with words of salvation
To sound to the ends of the earth,

Until every kingdom and nation
Have proved what thy Gospel is worth.

And still, while thy Priesthood are with them

Proclaiming the message of life,
May thy power, Father in heaven.

Preserve them from malice and strife.
May brotherly union and kindness

Increase until we become one ;
When, freed from all spiritual blindness,

We all shino as bright as the son.

Jamks Bcllooc.

CONTENTS.

Minutes of a Conference 449 Correspondence. — England : Letter from Elders *

History of Joseph Smith. 454 George Halliday,- James S. Brown, Mark

Editorial.— The Saviour and his Apostles as Barnes, John Needham, and George Reed 460

Viewed by their Contemporaries.— Abstract of 8nmmary of News and Passing Events. 46S

News from the Conferences. 457 Varieties „ 464

News from Utah 460 Poetry.— " Zion." 451

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, SO, PLORBNCKfSTRKET, CROSS STTUHCT
ISLINGTON ; AND A LL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAIHTS*

MILLENNIAL STAK.

M noiee tkaU come even to tkt ends of the MrtA ; for the Lord heUk a eontrovertf with the naHdmt hew*
fdtmdwiiheMfietk; h* mm^ tkemtkmtme«Hdo6dtotk4$word,mmtlU rnri f" T saiMii s

Ho. 80, VoL XXIIL Saturday, July 37, 1861. Price One Penny..

GLANCE AT THE PRBSBNT AND FUTURE OF THE NATIONS.

The 41 signs of the times*' are fearfully
ominous, and indicate an* approaching
future as dark and terrible as man in
his wildest moods of imagination ever
conceived. It is not the probable con-
tingency of one nation rising in arms
against another nation, even though the
contending parties were among the
mightiest of earth's empires, which fills
the minds of millions with fear and
dread but the close indications, amount-
ing almost to certainty, of a desperate
struggle convulsing the aggregate powers
of the earth, and spreading ruin, death,
and desolation over many, nations and
empires. . History furnishes us with
many 1 notable instances of mighty
{towers arrayed against each other and
grappling in the deathly struggles of
desperate conflict, and records in part
the misery and desolation which were
their consequent attendants; but it
presents, perhaps, no fair parallel to
the present condition of the powers of
ito earth, nor anything which will
compare with the fearful future awaiting
the nations, the darkening shadows
of Which are even now casting their
lengthening forms over the empires of
the earth.

- Glancing over the records of the past,
the red pages chronicling war and
bloodshed appear in rapid succession,
4*ctf one teaching its own lesson and

pointing its own moral. Some of these
are bloodier than the rest, but all alike 1
teach the same sad truth, that man,
governed by pride, ambition,- and
revenge, is the slave of passions which
are ever working misery to the human
race. Pride, envy, and ambition gene-
rated the Punic wars between Borne
and Carthage, which, after many vears
of fearful bloodshed, ended with the
destruction of the once-proud Carthage,
buried her glory in ruins, and blotted
her government from the roll of reigning
nations. The ambition of Alexander
hurled the Grecian phalanxes against
the hosts of Persia, shattering them to
pieces, and raising an empire on the
ruins of that mighty Eastern one which
it destroyed, to be itself torn asunder
by internal convulsions and contend*
ing sections, when the master-mind who
gave it form hurried himself to an
untimely grave through debauchery and
rioting. Rome carried her eagles
victorious from Asia to Britain, to be
herself overwhelmed by the hardy tribes
of the north. A few centuries later, and
Europe poured forth her armed hosts
to do battle with the Saracens for the
possession of Jerusalem and the hohr
sepulchre ; while, still later, the tide of
Mahomedan power was rolled back
beneath the walls of Belgrade by the
forces of the Western governments.

Digitized by

466

GLANCE AT THE PRESENT AND FUTURE OP THE NATIONS.

Then it was that. man made war his
study, and hunting his pastime, when
individual worth was not measured by
the possession of knowledge or truth, but
by prowess on the battle-field. Now
mankind profess to have learned to live
by commerce, and flourish by the
cultivation, of peace, realizing,, to .an
extent that their happiness and pros-
perity do not consist in their multiplied
Tictorics, but measurably in their
extension of reciprocal commerce, multi-
plication of manufactures, and increase
of markets in which to dispose of the
products of their labours. Henoe, the
suicidal tendency of the act which
produces war between commercial
• nations, and saps the very foundation

of their greatness and prosperity, by
bringing ruin and misery upon the
bone and sinew of their power, the
toiling, struggling, working millions.
Modern times have revealed Europe in
the condition of a great battle-field,
when the first Napoleon led the armies
of France from the Tiber to the Vistula
— from the Pyramids to thoAlps; but.
this, as with the other instances quoted,
reveals the fact of one nation struggling
with another nation or a combination o f
nations, which offers no parallel to the
present position of the dominant powers.

What is the present condition of the
civilized world? There is not one
nation which can lay claim to be ranked
among the great powers of the age,
that does not manifest the possession of
a growing war-spirit. Taxation is
increasing till the poor can scarcely
exist ; for, despite the multiplied bounties
of providence in many lands, of rich
harvests and abundant products of the
fruits of the earth, the necessaries of
life keep at almost famine prices.
Armaments are being increased, con-
structed with all the scientific skill of
an age — perhaps the most scientific of
any since the world began, and armies
are augmented by ordinary and extra-
ordinary means. From the shores of
the Baltic to the Mediterranean the
measured tread of marshalling hosts
and the rumblings of the approaching
storm are heard; and England, long
boastful of her island security while
protected by her wooden walls, seems
suddenly to have started into armed
life, and close upon two hundred
thousand drilled and equipped volun- [

teers testify that the war- spirit of the
age has seized a fast hold upon her.
And for what purpose is all this warlike
preparation designed P Diplomatists and
statesmen, editors and public politicians
declare that the surest way to preserve
peace is to be prepared for war. This
is a theory often as erroneous as .its.
tendency is dangerous. It is calculating
upon the fears of an implied enemy,
who may in the excitement of a moment
forget considerations and results, and
snatch up the gauge of battle so
defiantly thrown down. It is a generator
of mistrust, suspicion, and fear. Hence
France looks suspiciously on England's
increasing armaments, and increases
her own, while England reciprocates by
avowing distrust of French designs, and
multiplies her appliances of war. Italy
looks with jealous glances upon Austria,
and talks of raising an army of two
millions of men to consolidate her
newly -organized kingdom and complete
her programme of '* Italy and Unity,"
while Austria retaliates, and as fast as
she can, with an exchequer almost
bankrupt and provinces in a continued '
condition of revolution, prepares for the
struggle so rapidly approaching. Ger-
many and Denmark glare at each other
with angry glances. Spain, in the
midst of internal dissensions, endeavours
to make her once potent voice heard in
the sinuous councils of diplomacy,
while the Northern giant is collecting
resources, calculating the probable
duration of Turkey as an independent
empire, quelling revolutions at home,
and preparing for the issue of events.
East, west, north, or south, the same cry
comes from the endb of the earth — the
same spirit is manifested. Asia, Africa,
Europe, and last, but not least, America,
where already the storm has burst, and
the first faint sound o of the fearful
hurricane which shall sweep over the
nations is heard, — all manifest the same
spirit and indicate the same warlike
tendency.

Ten years ago, but few of the children
of this world believed that such a state of
affairs would ever exist. Then the
"World's Fair" in London witnessed
the assembling of peaceful representa-
tives from the nations in the honour-
able rivalry ot competition in science
and arts — in* labour of brain and
hand ; yet, more than twice ten years

Digitized by Google

GLANCE AT THE PRK8ENT AND FUTURE OF THE NATTON8.

ago, God, through his servant, not only
declared the present condition of the
nations, but in language ph in and un-
mistakable pointed out the consumma-
tion so dreaded and feared, yet bo
rapidly approaching, of war being
poured out upon all nations. There are
iqw sceptical enough to doubt this issue,
judging by present indications, however
much they deride and repudiate the idea
of Prophets living and revealing the
Blind of Jehovah in the present age, and
but few who doubt that misi ry and de-
struction, wide-spread and fearful, will
be the result. The facility with which
large bodies of men can be moved from
place to place, the murderous perfection
which characterizes the instruments of
destruction in war, the wide-spread,
rapidly-growing, and deeply-rooted war-
spirit which pervades the nations, the
character and condition of the powers
arming and likely to be involved in the
struggle, with the ruin to commerce,
and consequent destitution of the mil-
lions in many lands whose only means
of sustenance is found in open markets
am) ready Bales for the products of their
labour, by the fleets of the great mari-
time powers driving the merchantmen
from the ocean, justify and sustain the
statement that history furnishes no
parallel in magnitude and consequences
to the battle of nations already inaugu-
rated. Doubtless many will say that
every age furnishes its long list of wars
and contentions, and in so saying they
are correct ; but when they proceed to
deduce from this fact that the present
crisis is but of a character with the rest,
and will have a termination no more im-
portant, they are deceiving themselves.
The voice of prophecy in both ancient
and modern times has pointed distinctly
to the present crisis and its consumma-
tion. The Son of God declared that
nation should rise against nation, and
kingdom against kingdom; that there
should be famino, pestilence, and
earthquakes in divers places ; and that
there should be great tribulation, such
as there was not from the beginning of
of the world, nor ever should be again.
These predictions, though mixed up
with prophecies concerning the destruc-

tion of Jerusalem, evidently pointed to
a period subsequent to that event, and ,
indicated a time when there would be
an accumulation of these horrors poured
out upon the nations, which present ap-
pearances evidently point to a speedy
fulfilment of.

The Prophet Joseph declared that
•* war should be poured out upon all
nations, commencing with the rebellion
of South Carolina;" hence the state-
ment is made, that tire struggle is
already inaugurated: and not only these,
but a multiplicity of other prophecies
could be culled from the ancient Scrip-
tures and the words of men speaking
under the inspiration of prophecy in the
present age, all pointing to the same
time and to the same world-spread
struggle and terrible desolation.

And why is all this ? Is it because
God willeth the death of a sinner P or
that the Gospel of peace, taught eighteen
centuries ago, and sealed with the life-
blood of the Only Begotten, was impo- '
tent to accomplish its mission of
regenerating man, and filling him with
a love of God and his creatures ? No — j
neither of these is the reason, but be-
cause men have forsaken the truth, and
wandered after the lusts of the flesh and ,
the pride of their own hearts ; because .
they have become the slaves of sin and
the bondmen of ignorance ; because they
are descending in the scale of being,
and corrupting the form of Deity ;
because by their abominations the .
whole earth sickens and groans under
the burden of guilt which loads it ;
because they prefer to walk in the
darkness rather than the light. There-
fore are they given over to the influence
of the powers of evil, and the very gifts .
and talents which have been so liberally '
bestowed upon them from heaven will
prove the means of wasting and desola-
tion by being perverted and mis- .
applied. Still the Lord is sending forth
his servants to proclaim the truth and
prune his vineyard for the last time. '
Hearken unto their counsels, therefore,
ye honest among men, that ye may
be visited in mercy from the Lord of
Hosts in the day of his power.

A man who marries a frivolous, showy woman, fancies he has hung a trinket round his
but soon finds it a millstone, .

Digitized by

Google

46*

A SAINT.

BT ELDER WILLIAM FULLBS.

" A Saint ! and is that title mine?
Or hare I but the name?"

Such are the breathings of every true
Saint. The noble position, the holy
calling, the exalted sphere, the future
unrivalled station has nothing mean,
but everything grand, connected there-
with. When contemplating the pro-
mises and blessings in store for the
faithful Saints, who, as is stated by
the poetess, would desire but the name ?
Who, that is endeavouring to under-
stand the grand purposes and designs
of Jehovah, would possess the " linea-
ments" alone P Considering that our
Father has directly revealed this name
to be placed upon those who become his
adopted children, as a precedent to the
name of God that shall be written on
their foreheads, who would sit at ease
satisfied with a merely nominal po-
sition in his kingdom which is now
established upon the earth P

As the kingdom of the Most High
must bo built up, and the powers of
the Evil One weakened, ere the anticipa-
tions of the Saints can be realized, it
becomes necessary for them so to live
that the influence of the Father — namely,
the Holy Ghost, may find in them an
agreeable habitation, and thus render
them willing in the day of his power.

The appellation of a Saint is one that
is fondly cherished by those who have
earned it by their obedience to the com-
mandments of God. But how repugnant
it is to those who oppose his simple,
though mighty plan of redemption P

It is peculiarly strange that a person
professing Christianity and reverently
holding the blessed Bible" as his
treasure should be guilty of encouraging
those malicious emotions- that are
sometimes felt.

A pious, sanctified Methodist may pon-
der long and seriously upon the words
of that book, and fondly anticipate the
glorious blessings of futurity. If you
enter his dwelling at the time his mind
is occupied in framing his holy thoughts
and enjoying his prayerful communion,
and question him upon his expeota-
ttfft* ef occaping that position, asking
him if he believes that such realiaatijns

will come to his share, with turned-
up eyes and raised hands he will reply
that he unceasingly prays for a standing
with the just and sanctified upon Mount
Zion. He may enumerate his alms-
givings, his self-devotion, his continued
long and loud prayers, his exhortations
to unbelievers, and his knowledge of the
words of Jesus ; but ask him if in these
latter days he has become a Saint,
through which position alone he can
claim a part in the kingdom of God, and
then observe with what holy horror he
will repudiate the association with that
low class of deceivers ! Now, what can
he claim or expect, if he rejects the
opportunity P for the Prophet Daniel
expressly declares that 44 the kingdom,
and dominion, and the greatness of the
kingdom under the whole heaven shall
be given to the people of the Saints of
of the Most High, whose kingdom is an
everlasting kingdom, and whose do-
minion shall have no end." What will
be an inheritance outside of that king-
dom P Let such as are satisfied with
the outside, give their answer at 44 that
day !"

, But to return to those who are called
Latter-day Saints : Have all such
"The lineament* divine,
Which can this honour claim V

Alas ! too many could be found who
would have to answer, No !

How many there are who let their
evil passions rule them, thereby causing
to oe overlooked that watchful, prayer-
ful, vigilant course which should be
pursued by them ! How many will
indulge in tippling, backbiting, stealing,
evil-speaking, and numerous other evils
which ought to be entire strangers to a
Saint ! If any reader of this should un-
fortunately be one of this class, let me,
as an humble servant of God, request
him to 44 go and sin no more." But on
the other hand, let me encourage those
who may be doing all in their power to
" prove their calling and election sure**
to press on, for the prize is certain and
the reward is sure.

True it is that the revilings and scoffs
of the ignorant unbeliever are oftentimes
galling; t*rt the dayis dawv^otfi

Digitized by

BEADING AND REFLECTION.

469

when, to their own dismay, they will
nave time to repent of their wicked
persecutions !

" It is no mean thing to be a Saint,"
even now. If our enemies could parti-
cipate in the serene joy experienced by
a penitent believer of the Gospel when
baptized by a servant of God for the
remission of sins, they would be glad to
be Saints.

If they only knew the worth of that
heavenly boon conferred upon us, when,
by the laying on of hands, the Elders
seal upon us the gift of the Holy Ghost,
they would be glad to be Saints then.

If, in our meetings, they with us
could feel the benign influence of the
Spirit of God, and hear the speaking in
tongues, the interpretation of tongues,
the gift of prophecy, the words of
wisdom, the ferns of truth revealed ; or
behold the sick healed and the powers
of evil subdued through the operations
of the self- same Spirit, they would be
glad to be Saints then.

At that time when there shall be an
almost universal 44 famine, not for bread
alone, but for the word of God," as pre-
dicted by the Prophet Amos, they will
be glad to be Saints then.

When the fiery indignation of a just
God shall be poured out upon all nations,
so that the lightnings willflash, the thun-

ders roll, the earthquakes bellow, the sea
heave beyond her bounds, the sun be-
come black, the moon turn to blood,
the stars fall, the mountains sink, the
heavens shake, and grim pestilence
stalk abroad uuabated, thereby causing
every one in Babylon to feel the chasten-
ing rod of the Almighty, while hig
people are under his special care in '* the
chambers of the mountains," they will
be glad to be Saints then.

When the Son of God shall be revealed
in the clouds of heaven, and his angels
with him, and the Saints are caught up
in the air to meet him and enjoy his
presence, they will be glad to be Saints
then.

When that awful day shall appear
when he will say to his revilers and
scoffers, 44 Go ye into outer darkness pre-

Eared for the Devil and his angels from
eforo the foundation of the world,"
they will wish they had been Saints then.

Let all be advised to choose the better
part : for now is the 41 accepted time ;
behold, now is the day of salvation."
The kingdom of the Most High is set up
on the earth, never more to be thrown
down ; and it shall roll on till all shall
acknowledge him whose right it is to
reign as King of Kings, who now reigns
King of Saints.

READING AND

There are many attainable sources
l>y which the mind of man may be
refined and improved. Reading is one
of these sources— a source from which
many invaluable advantages may be
obtained ; but, like all other pursuits,
reading, by its abuse, is rendered a
source of evil, instead of being prolific
•with good.

Reading; may justly be said to be the
staff of life to the mind. Reading is
one of the most nourishing and beneficial
kinds of good with which the mind can
be supplied. There is no other mental
employment which is so interesting,
instructive, and advantageous. By
reading we are enabled to become
acquainted with every branch of science
and knowledge. We may learn the
natural features of the countries in the
whole world, and learn the habits of their

REFLECTION.

inhabitants ; we may obtain a know-
ledge of the starry constellations of the
heavens; we may descend into the
earth, and learn its different geological
structures &c. In short, there are no
bounds to the knowledge to be obtained
by reading; and especially is this the
case with the Saints of God. They can
have his Spirit to guide them in their
efforts ; and truly there is no bounds to
the knowledge to be obtained by 1 the
Saints. But there is another thing to be
taken into consideration in connection
with reading — namely, reflection.

Montesquieu has said that reading is
only idleness in disguise.

It is so for thoso who read rather than
meditate — who desire rather to know
what others have said than to take the
pains of developing their own ideas —
who love reading rather than books. A

Digitized by

470

HISTORY OF JOSKPH SMITH.

lady, who was in the habit of devouring
every modern work, especially romances,
said — " What matters it whet' er their
tendency be injurious to me or not P It
is en< ugh for me that I am amused."

Reading is a useless labour, if we
know not how to reflect and to com-
pare — if the good thought of a writer
does not kindle our spirit, sharpen our
intellect, and purify our judgment.

If we read books without considera-
tion and without forming any judgment
upon them, the ideas of others only
' weaken our own, and deprive our minds
of all originality. If we do not oblige
ourselves to give an account of our
reading, it leaves no trace, and forms no
treasury of wisdom within our minds.
We must not only heap up, but select ;
not gather all which offers to our hand,
but rather pluck those fruits alone
which have reached maturity. It is in
the moral as in the physical world — that
which nourishes us is not the quantity
which we swallow, but rather that
which we digest.

We must be careful in selecting good
food (or reading) for the mind, and

then in not over -gorging our minds, but
giving it a sufficient quantity, so that
we may well digest it, and it may do us
good. Especial care should be taken in
selecting tor, and supplying the wants
of, the minds of the young. Care
should be taken lest, in our earnestness
for their welfare, we force so much upon
them, and as a natural result make
them loathe that which, if carefully
applied, is of great good. To this one
cause may be accounted the existence
of so many scholastic dullards.

The seed does not grow, unless we
both choose good seed and culti-
vate the ground into which it is to
be cast. Who does not know that
a man may be deeply read in learned
lore, and yet be a fool P The wise man
is not he that reads most, but he that
reflects. " Read," said Seneca, " not
that thou mayest know more than
others, but that thou mayest know
better than others. It is not the study
itself, but the fruit of study, which we
require to sec."

C. S.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 457.)

"I copy the following from the
Neighbour of this date : —

" Hurrah for the General /-—The fol-
lowing, which we extract from the St. Louis
Organ, shows how th* public mind is turn-
ing, and what their feelings are in regard
to the Prophet, his views, and theirs also in
regard to the Presidency.

Forbear awhile — we'll hear a little more.
The matter is now settled with Mr. Clay,
Tyler, and Van Buren. Let Mr. Clay
return at once from his political perambu-
lations in the South, Mr. Tyler abandon his
hopes of re-election by aid of the '* imme-
diate annexation" of* Texas, fend let Mr.
Van Buren be quiet at Kinderhook, that he
may watch the operations of the " sober
second thought" of the people !

General Joseph Smith, the acknowledged
modern Prophet, has got them all in the
rear ; and from the common mode of testing
the success of candidates for the Presidency,
to wit, by steamboat elections, he (Smith)
will beat all the other aspirants to that
office two to one. We learn from the polls
of the steamboat Osprey, on her last trip to

this city, that the votes stood for
Gen. Joseph Smith 20 gents and 5 ladies.
Henry Clay - - 16 " "4 "
Martin Van Buren 7 " "0 "

Attended theatre in the evening.

Thursday, 9. — A court-martial was
held in my office for the trial of Major-
General Wilson Law, on a charge of
ungentlemanly and unofficer-like con-
duct. Present — Generals Hyrum Smith,
Charles G. Rich, Lyman Wight, George
Miller, and Albert P. Rockwood ; Cofi.
John Scott and Hosea Stout; Judge-
Advocate, John Taylor ; and Secretary,
Thomas Bullock. The charge was sus-
tained, and Wilson Law cashiered.

Evening, attended theatre, and saw
" Damon and Pythias " and the M Idiot
Witness" performed,

Elders Wilford Woodruff and George
A. Smith called upon me this morning,
and said they were ready to start on
their mission to attend the Conference*
appointed throughout the north of

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OJ JOSEPH SMITH.

471

Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. I
blessed them in the name of the Lord,
and told them to go, and they should
prosper and always prosper. They left
in company with Eiders Jedediah M.
Grant and Ezra Thayer.

Friday, 10. — Rode out after breakfast
to the prairie to sell some land to some
brethren.

The court-martial was held in the
Mayor's office on the charge against
Robert D. Foster, Surgeon -General,
for unbecoming and unomcer-like con-
duct, &c. ; Brigadier - General George
Miller presiding. The charges were
sustained.

A prospectus of the Xauvoo Expositor
was distributed among the people by
the apostates.

The jury of Lee county, Illinois,
awarded $40 damages and the costs
against Joseph H. Reynolds and Harmon
T. Wilson, for illegal imprtsonment and
abuse, which I suffered from them last
June in that county.

Saturday, 11. — At 10 a.m. I attended
City Council, and stayed till half-past
11 ; but there not being a quorum,
adjourned Until next regular session.
At 1 p.m. at my office, and had a con-
versation with Mr. Lyne on the theatre ;
and at 6 p.m. attended prayer meeting:
John P. Greene and Sidney Rigdon
present. Several showers of rain during
the day. The Nauvoo Legion had a
company muster.

Sunday, 12. — At 10 a.m. I preached
at the stand. The following brief sy-
nopsis of my discourse was reported by
my clerk, Thomas Bullock : —

" The Saviour has the words of eternal
life. Nothing else can profit us. There is
no salvation in believing an evil report
against our neighbour. I advise all to go
on to perfection, and search deeper and
deeper into the mysteries of godliness. A
man can do nothing for himself unless God
direct him in the right way ; and the priest-
hood is revealed for that purpose.

The last time I spoke on this stand it was
on the resurrection of the dead, when I pro-
mised to continue my remarks upon that
subject. I still feel a desire to say something
on this subject. Let us this very day begin
anew, and now say, with all our hearts, we
will forsake our sins and be righteous. I
shall read the 24th chap, of Matthew, and
give it a literal rendering and reading; and
when it is rightly understood, it will be edi-

fying. [He then read and translated it
from the German.]

I thought the very oddity of its rendering
would be edifying anyhow :— " And it will
preached be, the Gospel of the kin-jdom in
the wh ole world, to a witness over all people ;
and then will the end come. " I will now
read it in German [which he did, and many
Germans who were present said he translated
it correctlyj .

The Saviour said, when those tribulations
should take place, it should be committed to
a man, who should be a witness over the
whole world : the keys of knowledge* power,
and revelations should be revealed to a wit-
ness who should hold the testimony to the
world. It ha3 always been my province to
dig up hidden mysteries — new things — for
my hearers. Just at the time when some
men think that I have no right to the
keys of the Priesthood — just at that time I
have the greatest right. The Germans are
an exalted people. The old German trans-
lators are the most correct, — most honest of
any of the translators ; and therefore I get
testimony to bear me ou in the revelations
that I have preached for the last fourteen
years. The old German, Latin, Greek, and
Hebrew translations all say it is true : they
cannot be impeached, and therefore I am in
good company.

All the testimony is that the Lord in the
last days would commit the keys of the
priesthood to a witness over all people. Has
the Gospel of the kingdom commenced in the
last days ? And will God take it from the
man until he takes it himself? I have read
it precisely as the words flowed from the lips
of Jesus Christ. John the Revehvor saw an
angel flving through the midst of heaven,
having the everlasting Gospel to preach unto
them that dwell on the earth.

The Scripture is ready to be fulfilled when
great wars, famines, pestilence, great dis-
tress, judgments, &c. , are ready to be poured
out on the inhabitants of the ear«h. John
saw the angel having the holy priesthood,
who should preach the everlasting Gospel to
all nations. God had an angel — a special
messenger — ordained and prepared for that
purpose in the last days. Woe, woe be to
that man or set of men who lift up their
hands against God and his witness in these
last days ; for they shall deceive almost the
very chosen ones!

My enemies say that I have been a true
prophet. Why, I had rather be a fallen true
prophet than a false prophet. When a man
goes about prophesying, and commands men
to obey his teachings, he must either be a
true or false prophet . False prophets always
arise to oppose the true prophets, and they
will prophesy so very near the truth that
they will deceive almost the very chosen ones

Digitized by

472

KDITOBIAL.

The doctrine of eternal judgments belongs
to the first principles of the Gospel in the
last days. In relation to the kingdom of
God, the Devil always sets up his kingdom at
the very same time in opposition to God.
Every man who has a calling to minister to
the inhabitants of the world was ordained
to that very purpose in the Grand Council of
heaven before this world was. I suppose
that I was ordained to this very office in that
Grand Council. It is the testimony that I
▼ant that 1 am God's servant, and this
people his people. The ancient Prophets

declared in the last days the God of heaven
should set up a kingdom, which should never
be destroyed, nor left to other people ; and the
very time that was calculated on, this people
were struggling to bring it out. He that
arms himself with gun, sword, or pistol,
except in the defence of truth, will some time
be sorry for it. I never cairy any weapon
with me bigger than my penknife. When
I was dragged before the cannon and mus-
kets in Missouri, I was unarmed. God will
always protect me until my mission it
fulfilled.

(TobtcoHtomed.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, July 27, 1861.

THE PAST AND PRESENT OF THE CHURCH.

Fourteen years ago this 24th instant, a small band consisting of one hundred
and forty-three men encamped for the first time within the precincts of
Great Salt Lake Valley. They were the Pioneers of the Chnrch of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints. Under the leadership of President Brigham Young, thev
had taken their journey from Winter Quarters on the Missouri River, and had
traversed the wilderness that stretched out, almost untrodden save by the foot of
the savage denizen of the plains, from that river to the Great Basin. The country
which they had travelled was a country to which all were strangers ; the country
which they had sought was one of which hut little was known, and about which
bo many fabulous stories were told that it was impossible to arrive at any just
conclusion respecting it. Well defined and travelled roads leading thereto there
were none. There were faint trails here and there on the line of route over which
men and animals had travelled ; but they were not to be relied upon, and over
long stretches there was not even one of these to be found. Without any guide,
other than the Spirit and power which had guided Jared and his brother and
party, and Nephi and his party, across the unknown and mighty ocean, they
started out and safely reached the place designated by the Lord as a gathering
and hiding-place for his people. Fourteen years of incessant travel have been
fruitful in giving rich and profitable experience in the crossing of the great plains
which are spread out in their immensity from the Missouri river to the rim of the
Great Basin. Everything connected with the route has become as familiar as
household words. But when the Pioneers crossed, it was entirely different.
There were dangers to be met, but their nature and extent were so little un-
derstood that the uncertainty was much more harassing than an actual knowledge of
much greater dangers would havebeen. Warlike tribes of Indians infested the entire
route, of whom but little was known, except that they were fierce and implacable,
and skilful and audacious thieves — foes to be watched and dreaded. Against their
depredations and attacks strict and constant guard had to be maintained, night
and- day, over the encampment and the animals, whenever the camp halted. It

Digitized by

BDITOBIAL.

473

was like launching upon an unknown sea, of which all that had been heard was
only calculated to appal and deter. Numerous dangers menaced them ; but they
had numerous incentives to urge them on. The Israel of God had been spoiled
and scattered. They had fled from before their enemies like sheep from a band
of wolves. There was no spot in all the land round about that offered shelter, or
that invited the settlement of a persecuted and oppressed community. Civilization
— " Christian " civilization — reared itself up with a threatening and impenetrable
front as a mighty barrier to repel by blood and violence any further attempt to
settle and dwell together as a church within its limits. The West alone was
open ; the savages of the wilderness alone offered no resistance — threatened no
violence to a plundered and outraged people ; and the voice of civilized robbers
and murderers declared that in that direction alone we must go, or experience
their dire vengeance. Besides, the Prophet, before his death, had foretold great
blessings and power for the Israel of God in the West. In vision he had beheld
the peace which the Church should enjoy, and the greatness to which it should
grow, far in the interior of the continent ; and, when harassed and vindictively
pursued by the tireless efforts of his enemies, he would gladly have sought
in those otherwise forbidding regions that quiet tranquility which was denied him
in the midst of his own nation and race. This being the position of the people of
God, and these the circumstances that surrounded them, it was but natural, then,
that they should seek in that direction, undaunted and undeterred by the dangers
and difficulties that threatened them, a spot where they might build homes and
worship God according to the dictates of their consciences, unmolested by cruel
and bloodthirsty enemies.

There is much good to be derived from the contemplation of these past scenes and
experience. Their lessons are prolific in consolation and hope. Feelings of
thanksgiving that draw us nearer and nearer to God, who is the Author of all the
benefits which have resulted to the Church by the persecution which drove forth
from the midst of " civilization," are inspired thereby. We can see the wonders
of His providence, and bow in adoration before His wisdom which overrules the
plans of wicked man for His praise and the accomplishment of His purposes. The
humble and faithful Saints who submissively yielded to his decrees, though the
good that was to result therefrom was apparently very far distant, and could only
be seen at all by the eye of faith, can now rejoice in their God who has so signally
caused the wrath of man to praise him, and has vindicated in the eyes of all the
world the justness and wisdom of their reliance in his promises. Little did the
enemies of the kingdom and people of God imagine, when they expelled the
Ghurch from their midst and bade it go forth to perish or be overcome in the
wilderness, that they were coercing it to seek a land where it could dwell in
peace and safety when they themselves >\ ould be involved in war, and misery, and
other calamities the mo**t dreadful that could befall a people! Yet such has
actually been the result of their measures !

The 24th of July is a day that will never be forgotten. The recurrence of its
anniversary will be a fitting occasion for future generations to offer up the
incense of grateful and thankful hearts to the Almighty for the deliverance
wrought out for their fathers. Upon that day the Lord brought his servants to
the land which had been reserved in His wisdom as a land where His infant
kingdom might grow and be developed, and where bis people might be schooled in
all that was necessary to constitute them a temperate, healthy, and great race,
physically ai d morally,— such a race as would be capable of giving permanence

474

EDITORIAL.

to a government and institutions that shall be universal throughout the earth.
The circumstances which have surrounded them from the beginning have been
favourable to the accomplishment of all this. Before they went there — while in
the lands of their first inheritance — they were a people who loved liberty, and,
above all, the precious boon of religious liberty, more than anything else. They
gave evidence of this by the sacrifices they made to obtain it before they turned
their faces towards the Rocky Mountains, and afterwards by the toil) expense,
and risk with which they sought its enjoyment in that distant region. The
constant struggle for existence which they had to maintain for so many years
after they reached that land was a schooling most valuable to all who
participated in it. Their enemies viewed their contest with the elements, with
poverty and all the adverse circumstances that surrounded them with indifference,
thinking that without doubt it could only end in one result — namely, the complete
overthrow of the system and people. But the living upon the scanty portion of
food they took with them — the eking of it out with poor beef, and thistle, and other
roots and wild herbs — the loss of many of their fields of grain by crickets in the
first place, and, in a few years afterwards, a similar but much more devastating
inroad by grasshoppers, and tho scarcity and threatened starvation consequent
thereupon, had tho effect (least expected by those who anxiously looked for their
destruction,) of imparting to them an experience which they needed to prepare
them for the mission before them ; and, though apparently severe, these circum-
stances were excellently adapted for the object in view. So, also, with the sending
of troops there, and all the agencies that have been brought to bear upon
the people for their destruction : they have all been productive, through the
over-ruling power of God, of a certain amount of good, and have afforded an
experience that is necessary.

The changes which the lapse of fourteen years has brought about in the
experience, circumstances, and prospects of the people of God are most won-
derful. Then the Church was on its pilgrimage ; then its members were few,
and many of them widely scattered. They were poor, having been stripped of
nearly all their worldly wealth ; and, though the rightful owners of houses and
lands, they could not possess them, and had scarcely a shelter to shield them
from the fierce rays of the summer's sun or the chilling blasts of the frowning
winter, or a foot of land which they could call their own. Then it was not
widely known that a place of gathering had been found, or that a spot had been
designated upon which another holy temple should be reared, to which the dispersed
and ungathered could turn their eyes in hopeful anticipation. Then they were in
anguish and pain, in sorrow and affliction, in danger and want, while their enemies
occupied a position the very reverse of this. But now, how changed the circum-
stances and the scene ! The Church is no longer a pilgrim in the sense she was before.
She is firmly planted (praised be the Lord for it,) in "the tops of the mountains
the " munitions of rocks" surround her and are her bulwarks. Her numbers are so
increased, and they flock to her so rapidly, as to almost justify her in saying —
" The place is too strait for me : give place to me that I may dwell." Though
not over-burdened with riches, they are no longer the poor people they were ; and,
instead of living in a wilderness exposed to all the fury of the elements, they have
highly-cultivated fields, beautiful and well-built cities, and all the advantages
which result from well-directed and efficient labour. The place of gathering is
now not only known to the Saints, but is an object of note and admiration and
wonder to the civilized . world. The anguish and suffering, the mourning and

MINUTK8 OF THE " MONAHCH OF THE SEA" CONFERENCE. 4^5

distress, the destitution and danger under which they formerly suffered, no
longer exist in their midst, but are now burdening and crushing out the existence
of their enemies ! And the prospects before them are the most cheering and
glorious that could be spread out before any people. Such a change as this,
within so short a time, and with such difficulties to surmount, is most wonderful,
and should prompt us to glorify that God who has so fully fulfilled his promises
by vouchsafing unto us these blessings.

MINUTES OF THE "MONARCH OP THE SEA" CONFERENCE

PF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS :
Organized May 16, 1861.

On Thursday, May 16, Presidents
Lyman, Rich, and Gannon convened a
meeting of the Saints on board the
Monarch of the Sea y in the river Mersey,
Liverpool, and organized the company,
consisting of 949 Saints, with Elder
Jabez Woodard as President, and Elders
H. O. Hansen and Niels Wilhelmsen as
his Counsellors.

A Priesthood meeting of the English
Saints was held the same afternoon.
Present — Elders Woodard, Harrison,
W. H. Kelsey, S. Reid, Horace Pegg,
Heber Pegg, John J. Wallis, William
Oarnie, and others. Elder Woodard
proposed E. L. T. Harrison as Secretary
of the ship's company, W. H. Kelsey as
President of the English portion of the
Saints, and Thomas Morrell as Marshal.
Elder Woodard explained the duties of
the Marshal — That he would have to see
to the getting up of a nightly guard at
the hatchways, see that no lights were
left burning at night, and, in fine, pre-
serve order and cleanliness throughout
the ship : also that all found articles
were to be placed in his possession till
the owner was found. President Wood-
ard then exhorted the English Saints to
patience and kindness to the Danish,
Norwegian, and Swedish Saints. He
also gave some instruction as to the best
food to be used at present.

Resolved — "That no smoking be
allowed between decks." Meeting ad-
journed till ten o'clock next day.

Married during the day, by Elder
Niels Wilhelmsen, Lars Peter Christen-
sen and Anne Marie Christiansen, Carl
Wilhelm Julius Heker and Karen Marie
Madsen, Johannes Hansen and Han-
sine Andrea Ibsen, Poul Christian
Petersen and Marie Caroline Elizabetha
Dorthea Nielsen ; jail of Denmark.

Tuesday, 15. — (Before organization
of company.) — Married by President J.
Van Cott, in Liverpool, Carl Erick
Lindholm and Johanne Nielson, Niels
Oluf Vahlstrom and Eva Magdalene
Nordblad, all of Sweden; Anders
Frantzen and Maren , Martenson, of
Denmark; Samuel Gudmundsen and
Ellen Marie Morck, of Norway. A meet-
ing was held this evening of the English
Priesthood, which was addressed by
President Woodard.

Friday, 17. — A Priesthood meeting
of the English division was held at ten
o'clock.

The following division into wards
was made in the ship, and the fol-
lowing men appointed Presidents -. —
1st Ward, S. Gudmundsen; 2nd, Ed-
ward Reid ; 3rd, P. Nielsen ; 4th, John
J. Wallis ; 5th, G. Ohlson ; 6th, G. A.
Omonn ; 7th, L. 0. Giertsen, 8th, J.
Fagerberg ; 9th Horace Pegg; 10th,
R. Nielsen ; 1 1 th Jynaz Willie.

Married, this day, by Elder Niels
Wilhelmsen, Soren Peter Rasmussen
and Anne Mikkelsen, Poul Michael Poul-
sen and Cecilie Jorgensen. President
Woodard preached in the evening to a
general meeting of the English wards.
Born, Christian Madsen, son of Christian
Jacobsen,

Died, Emma, daughter of Peter Peter-
sen, of Sweden, 3} years old.

Saturday, 18.— Elders Woodard and
Harrison lectured on geography.

Sunday, 19. — A general meeting of
all the Saints, English, Danish, Nor-
wegian, Swedish, German, Welsh, &c. t
was held on deck, addressed by Pre-
sident Woodard and his Counsellors.

Monday, 20. — Robert Murdoch, Peter
Hansen, and F. Lynberg called to be
Assistant-Marshals.

Digitized by

476

MINUTES OF THI "MONABCH OF THB 8Ba" CONFEBENCE.

Married, by Elder N. Wilhelmsen,
Rasmus Jorgensen and Jacobine Kirs-
tine Morgensen, of Denmark.

Tuesday, 21.— Died, Jane H. Mont-
gomery, of England, aged 60 : buried
in lat. 52.26 north, long. 23 west.

Friday, 24.— Died, Caroline, daughter
of Isaak Looser, of Switzerland, aged
9 weeks.

Saturday, 25.— Mem. — Much stormy
weather during the last few days, and
good deal of sea -sickness. To-day
weather fine, and general time of
restoration among the sick.

Council meeting of all the Priesthood
held this evening. Resolved— 4 * That
the English have one fire at the cooking-
galley to themselves, and the remaining
three fires be kept for the Danes, Nor-
wegians, Swedes, and Germans.

President Woodard then addressed
the meeting on the nature and extent
of the Priesthood. Interpreted by Elder
Wilhelmsen.

Sunday, 26.— General meeting was
held in the morning, addressed by Pre-
sidents Woodard and Wilhelmsen . After-
noon, a German meeting was held, ad-
dressed by President Woodard & others.

M em.— Regular prayer meetings every
morning and evening in each ward.

Thursday, 30. — A general meeting of
the English division held in the evening.
Elder Woodard preached.

Saturday, June 1. — Born, daughter
of James and Alice Unsworth, of
England : named Betsy.

Sunday, 2. — General meeting held
on deck, addressed by Elder S. Francis.
In tfce afternoon a meeting was held
on the lower deck, addressed by Elder
Harrison ; after which President Wood-
ard preached an 44 ox-team discourse."

Monday, 3. — A sacramental meeting
was held in Elder Reid's ward : a very
good feeling prevailed. Resolved into a
testimony meeting. Several Danish
brethren spoke.

Tuesday, 4. — Sacramental meeting in
Danish wards Nos. 3 and 5, ad-
dressed by Elders Wilhelmsen, W. H.
Kelsey, E. Reid, Thomas Morrell, and
E. L. T. Harrison; interpreted by Elder
Wilhelmsen. A very strong feeling of
union between the English and other
divisions was manifested.

Died, Karen Marie, daughter of Ras-
mus Peter Christensen, aged 6 months.

Wednesday, 5. — A sacramental meet-
ing of two other (Nos. 3 and 7)
Danish divisions was held. Addressed
by President Woodard.

Thursday, 6. — A sacramental meet-
ing was held in Elder Wallis's ward.

Friday, 7.— A Welsh testimony meet-
ing was held.

Saturday, 8.— Born, a daughter of
Charlotte Kirby, late of England.

Sunday, 9.— Being very rough wea-
ther, no general meetings were held. In
the afternoon, a sacramental meeting was
held in the Young Men's Ward, ad-
dressed by Elders Woodard and Hansen.

Tuesday, 1 1 . — Died, Amelia, daughter
of brother Rokenbouch, of Switzerland,
aged 14 months. .

Thursday, 13. — Born to Hennaig
Oline . Ungermann, a daughter, named
Marie Josephine Atalanta.

Friday, 14.— Died, Petrine, daughter
of Christen Christensen, 2\ years old.

Saturday, 15.— Died, the daughter of
Charlotte Kirby, born on the voyage.

Sunday, 16.— As the weather was
not very good, no general meeting was
held ; but, in the afternoon, an English
meeting was held on the deck, addressed
by Presidents Woodard and Wilhelmsen,
E. L. T. Harrison, and W. H. Kelsey ;
after which a Danish meeting was held,
addressed by President Wilhelmsen.

Monday, 17.— The pilot came on
board, and much delight was manifested
by the Saints. In the evening Elder
Woodard preached on the news brought
from America by the pilot the fulfil-
ment of Joseph's prophecies, &c.
Resolved — 44 That a double guard be
set as we are approaching New York,
to be continued night and day, until
we are landed."

Died, William Cunningham, son of
Robert Cunningham, of Scotland ; also,
Jens Christian Carl, daughter of Niels
Jacobson, aged 6 months.

Wednesday, 19. — Arrived at New
York, after a prosperous voyage of 34
day 8, during which harmony and peace
prevailed.

E. L, T. Harbison, Secretary.

Digitized by

COBBESPONDBNCB.

477

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.
Great Salt Lako City,
May 15, 1861.

Brothers Amasa M., Charles C, and
George Q.

I have just heard Thomas Bullock
read a few items to brother Staines. I
continue to communicate, realizing that
much of the business transacted and the
operations and improvements carried on
here, though not much thought of by us
who witness them daily, will be very in-
teresting to the brethren abroad.

The theatre closed last Saturday
evening, after a brief but very agreeable
season. The scenery has been much
improved, and the general opinion is
that our theatrical corps have done
credit to the comic species of the drama.
The lack of accommodations for the
large number of patrons forbids issuing
over a certain number of tickets (350),
which were always too few to supply the
demand. Arrangements are on the tapis
to have 250,000 adobes on the bench,
one-third of clay and two-thirds of
gravel, for the erection of the new
theatre : the clay is to be hauled on the
bench.

Labourers have commenced to work
around the Seventies' Hall of Science,
which we expect to erect with brick
and inclose this fall preparatory to the
joiners' working therein next winter,
and for completion in 1862. It will be
a delightful place, wherein the Elders
of Israel can be instructed in all the
branches of practical and useful arts
and science, as well as theology. I
think it would be well for the Seventies
and all the Elders of Israel who are
abroad to improve every opportunity
which may present itself of get ting use-
ful books, maps, charts, philosophical
and astronomical apparatus and instru-
ments, such as would be beneficial and
necessary in a Hall of Science, con-
nected with which there is already a
library established. I merely throw
out this as a suggestion, realizing that
the Elders should always have their
eyes open to the growing and expand-
ing interests of that kmgdom whose
beauty and glory will yet be the theme
and admiration of the wise and truly
great of the earth.

Many are making preparations for

building and improving. The 14th
Ward are finishing their hall.and building
verandahs to, and otherwise improving,
the two wings of the main building.
They expect to inclose them in the fall
with a good fence. John B. Kimball
and Company are building a store on
Levi Richards' corner, where Dennel-
son's Cooperage was. The cooperage
has been removed a few rods north.
Walker and Brothers, merchants, are
building where Gill, the physiological
barber, used to have his shop, — which
shop, by- the -bye, came up the street the
other day, and has got replaced near to
where J. B. Kimball is building. Pre-
sident B. Young is putting up a two-
storied verandah on the west of his Lion
House. President Wells has finished
his verandah on the north, and is now
putting up another on the south of what
used to be the Benson House.

President Young, accompanied by
Elders D. H. Wells, John Taylor, George
A. Smith, W. Woodruff, Edward Hunter,
A. O. Smoot, and others, started to-day
on a Southern tour to the extreme south
of our settlements. My impaired health
for some time back, and illness on the
last expedition to San Pete, admonish
me to take care of myself, that I may
not leave this stage of action prema-
turely, but stick to it until my work is
completed and I have accomplished a
complete victory.

To-day, President Young and Com-
pany dedicate the new hall at American
Fork, which is a very substantial, neat
building, well finished, with good base-
ment designed for a schoolroom.

My oil-mill is doing good work : in-
deed, it accomplishes afi we anticipated ;
and I can extract from the flax seed as
much as they do in the States, although
I have not employed a professional oil-
maker, but have superintended it my-
self, asssisted by an ingenious London
joiner, named Edward Cox. I extract
the oil by means of two hydraulic
presses, which press each to the weight
of 112 tons. They were put in operation
by brother Silver, and work first-rate.
In about four weeks I expect to have a
run of millstones attached to my oil-
mill, which will accommodate the city
folks and myself with superfine flour.
President Young has put up a carding

Digitized by Google

478

CORRESPONDENCE.

machine On City Creek, a little south of
the city wall.

Painters say, when they see my oil,
there is a body to the paint like unto
varnish ; and they say the reason is be-
cause the oil is pure and unadulterated.
A gentleman desired to inform me, the
other day, how to adulterate my oil with
lye ; but as I did not believe in lying, I
did not procure the receipt.

On the 21st ult., P. P. Pratt, Jacob
G. Bigler, John D. Chase, John Talbot,
William Fotheringham, Edward Pugh,
Paul A. Schettler, John W. Clark, and
George W. Grant were set apart to go
on missions ; and on the 29th ult.,
Warren S. Snow and George Peacock
of Manti were also set apart— Bigler,
Chase, Pugh, Grant, Snow, and Pea-
cook, to England ; Schettler, to Holland ;
Fotheringham and Talbot, Cape of Good
Hope ; Clark, Texas ; Lewis Brunson of
Fillmore and P. P. Pratt, the United
States. These Elders accompany the
two hundred teams which we send back
for the immigration of the Saints, and
are thus furnished conveyances to the
States, turning in, of eourse, and doing
all the good they can on the way.

Our spring has been somewhat cold,
with occasional slight frosts, which have
nipped, I fear, much of the apricot and
peach blossoms ; but, as a general thing,
the spring is a very favourable one for
farming and horticulture generally.
Many of the brethren are taking up
large tracts of land on the Weber and
on the Hamas prairie — likewise over
Jordan. The Jordan dam, which has
been under way for several years, is
now being put in principally by brother
Thomas Box, who has taken up a large
tract of land about three miles north-
west of the bridge, where helias found a
good well of water, and sowed twenty or
thirty acres of wheat for, an experiment.
He has taken a water-level and ascer-
tained, by the aid of the dam, that he
can water his claim. The dam will be in
in a few days, and this will enable those
interested m the big field north and
west %i Father Pulsipher's (in which
field several persons have sown wheat,
oats, corn, and potatoes, this season,) to
water their crops, and thus bring thou-
sands of acres of good rich land into
successful cultivation.

Remember me kindly to all the Elders
who are labouring with you. -

'Hbber C. Kimball.

Camp of Israel, near Florence,
June I9th, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — I came out
to the camp ground this morning, in
company with brothers Gates and
Spencer, for the purpose of organizing
the 4th company ; and after we accom-
plished the business that we came to
do, not being very well, through fatigue
brought on by the driving of cattle yes-
terday, I thought I would remain in
camp during the day ; and in order to
fill up the time, I thought I would give
you a short synopsis of our doings sinco
we last wrote to you. We left New
York, in company with a little upwards
of 600 Saints, on the evening of the
23rd of May, an4 landed in Florence on
the evening of the 2nd of June. We
had rather a weary, yet pleasant pas-
sage, some little sickness, and one death,
which occurred between Omaha and ,
Florence. Since we have been at
Florence, the health of the camp has
been good ; but two deaths within the
last three weeks. After our meeting
on Sunday the 16th, our camp was
cheered with the presence of our bre-
thren late from Utah — namely, Joseph
W.Young, Judge Peacock, Bishop Brun-
son, and others, the most of whom are on
missions for Europe. They were in
good health and excellent spirits. They
bring us news that there will be plenty
of teams here by the 1st day of July to
help all away from this place that arc
unable to help themselves, which is
news that causes the hearts of the poor
to rejoice. I have received several kind
and warm-hearted letters from the bre-
thren and sisters in England, all of
which I should be glad to answer, if it
were not tor the hurry and the incessant
labour that always exist at an out-
fitting point. I shall remain here, in
company with brother Gates, until the
companies are all gone ; and then we
shall get into the same waggon that
you and sister Cannon came down in,
and ^og over the Plains as speedily as
possible. Please to give my love to
brothers Lyman and Rich, accepting my
warmest desires for your own welfare.

1 remain yours in the Gospel,

Milo Andrus.

Monarch of the Sea, New York,
June 19, 1861.
President Q. Q. Cannon.
Dear brother,— I am glad to be able

Digitized by VjOOQ IC

SUMMARY OP KKWB AND PASSING EVENTS.

479

to say that we have arrived safe in port
to-day, after a pleasant voyage of 34
days.

The generality of our company are
enjoying good health. All seem rejoiced
at the termination of our sea voyage,
and grateful to Qod for his mercies
that have manifestly been over us.

I do not think any company that ever
crossed the ocean could have felt, on
the whole, a happier or more united
spirit, especially considering the diver-
sity of nations represented, there being
ten languages spoken on board.

After the organization of this com-
pany in the Mersey, by Presidents
Lyman, Rich, and yourself, we sailed
with a fair breeze and had a most
successful passage through the Channel.
Since then, we had but little of anything
but contrary or indirect winds ; but the
Monarch has behaved splendidly under
all kinds of weather.

Shortly after our departure from
Liverpool, President Woodard and his
Counsellors proceeded to complete still
further the organization, by appointing
E. L. T. Harrison, Secretary of the ship's
company ; W. H. Kelsey, President of
the English division ; Thomas Morrell,
Marshall ; Jynaz Willie, President of the
German Saints. The Danish, Nor-
wegian, and Swedish Saints needed no
other General President, as Elders
Hansen and Wilhelmsen were of their
their number. The whole company were
then further divided into eleven wards,
over each of which Presidents were
appointed. These officers have, worked
hard to preserve order and cleanliness
in our midst.

Nine deaths have occurred on board,
chiefly young children. There havo
also been four births and fourteen
marriages on board, eleven of the latter
being among the Danish divisions.

Captain Gardner, with the first and
other officers of the ship, have behaved
in a kind and courteous manner to the
company. We presented the former
with the following testimonal : —

To W. R. Gardner, Esq.,
Commajider, Monarch of the Sea.
As President and Officers of 949 Latter-
day Saints, passenger* on board your vessel,
we desire, before leaving, to express our
entire satisfaction with the treatment our-
selves and fellow-passengers have received,
during our voyage from Liverpool to New
York, from vourself, and also from the first
and other officer acting under your command.

Other scenes and circumstances are . about
to engage our attention, but we shall
certainly ever remember with pleasure the
gentlemanly treatment of ourselves and
those under our charge on board the Monarch
of the Sea.

On behalf of the Company,
Jabf.z Woodard, ") *o„ nn i A
H. O. Hansen, I Presidents of the
N. Wilhelmsen, > Company.
E. L. T. Harrison, Secretary.
June 1861.

President Woodard and his Coun-
sellors have enjoyed tolerable good
health. They have behaved as fathers
to us, and I am sure they enjoy the
good feelings of every soul on board.

Trusting the blessing of God may
still continue with us in our further
movements, with love to Presidents
Lyman, Rich, and yourself, in which
Elder Woodard and Counsellors join,
Yours respectfully,

Elias L. T. Harrisoic.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Spain. — Rumours asserting that fresh
disturbances have taken place in provinces
continue to circulate. Ministerial journals
reply that full guarantees have been taken
for the maintenance of tranquility. The
military courts formed at Granada, Malaga,
and Loja to try the insurgents captured have
commenced their operations ; but the Queen
has sent down orders to prevent summary
execution,- and to request that no more
blood shall be shed. It is her wish that the
rioters shall be transported to Fernando Po.
Granada and Malaga are to be placed in a
state of siege. Military law has already been

proclaimed in the latter province. 10,000
men have been sent to Andalusia. The
Spanish Government has summarily closed
the question at issue with Morocco by
appropriating in perpetuity the city of
Tetuan. Tetuan is henceforth to be an
integral part of Spain. According to the
last census, the population of Spain was
15,686,000 souls.

Prussia. — A manifesto issued at ^Berlin
announces that the King and Queen of
Prussia will be crowned at Konigsbery in
October next. A telegraphic despatch from
the city of Baden-Baden informs us that

Digitized by

480

FMTftT. — ADPRBSS.

<m Um 14th iMt, whilst the King of
Prussia was walking on the promeaade,
an unsuccessful attempt was made upon
his life. The miscreant was immediately
arrested, an 1 seals were affixed to the doors
of his residence at Leipsic.

Italt. — In Naples several conflicts have
taken place between the royal troops and
the brigands, in which the latter have
suffered great losses.

Poland. — Fresh demonstrations having
taken place in the Saxon and Krasynsky
Gardens of Warsaw, the Government has
taken strong measures to prevent an out-
break. Much agitation prevails in Warsaw
and the provinces.

Ohina. — Advices from Pekin, reaching to
April 29, state that the Chinese insurgents
have repeatedly beaten the Tartar army,
and that they were rapidly marching against
Pekin. The Emperor of China is still
residing at Geoke, where he proposes to
remain until next autumn. The state of
the country, caused by the progress of the
insurrection, renders his return uncertain.

America. — The internecine conflict in the
States is producing results on the cotton
trade of the country which must be greatly
deplored. Shortly after the blockade of the
Southern ports was established, the effect

was visible in Lowell and other great
manufacturing districts, the operatives being
placed on short time, and in some instances
compelled to seek for subsistence by pur-
suing other occupations. The supply of
cotton afterwards completely ceased, and
the result is that at the present time the
stock is so low in the North that efforts are
being made to replenish the market by
supplies from this port. The blockade of
New Orleans and other cotton ports being
now effectual, the Southern dealers will be
unable to get stocks off their hands, and
they will therefore suffer equally with the
Northern firms. It is stated that a British
ship, conveying several hundred tons of
powder and 20,000 stand of arms, has
eluded the vigilance of the blockading force,
and arrived at New Orleans. The latest
despatches from the capital intimate that
the Government have resolved to prosecute
the war with vigour, and that an onward
movement will be commenced as soon as
the consent of Congress can he obtained.
All the Baltimore police commissioners have
been arrested, and military men remain
posted throughout the city. Tennessee sec-
ession troops have left Knoxville to pre-
vent the the advance of Federals into Bast
Tennessee.

POETRY.

A HYMN.

9 Lord! rcspoMto to flry call.
Thy Saints will gather from alar,
An 1 learn of thee to dwell in peace.
While Gentile nations rash to war.

We thank thee. Lord, for all thy lore ;
We thank thee for a Prophet's voice ;
We praise thee for the Spirits light,
' And in thy kingdom we rejoice.

Celestial masic we shall stag ;
- Thy matchless wisdom we shall team,
London.

As maatHng over Zion's towers,
Bloheim's pillared fires burn.

Then, Father, bless thy Saints on earth ;
Increase our faith and works below ;
And, though unseen by sordid minds,
The kingdom of our God shall grow.
Yes, Lord, responsive to thy call.
Thy Saints are gathering from afar;
And soon the citv of our King
Will be the world's bright guiding star.

O. C. PSBOOSOE.

Address.— Thomas O. King, 9, Twerton Hayes, Bath.

00HTENT8,

Glance at the Present and Future of the

Kattoas 465

A Saint . — .. 468

Reading and Reflection 469

History of Joseph Smith. 479

Editorial— The Past and Present of the Church 47S
Minutes of the Monarch of the Sea Conference... 479

Correspondences-America : Letter from President
H. c Kimball. Letters ' from Elder MDo

Andrus and S. L. T. Harrison ~ 477

Summary of News and Passing Events. 479

Poetry.— A Hymn «. 499

Address „ 499

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHBD BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, tt, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DKPOT. 20, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STREET
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAE.

AwAh tkaU eome even to the ends of iketaartk ; /or the lord hath a oontntrertf with the nation: hewWL
pUad with aU flesh; he will five them that ewe wicked to the tword } eaith the Lor<L"—Ja*Muuu.

No. 32, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, August 10, 1861. Price One Fenny.

CONDITION OF THE NATIONS.

BY ELDER RICHARD SMYTH.

Life, in the great cities and towns of
the nations, presents to the mind of the
philanthropist a most deplorable picture
of human depravity and wretchedness.
In fact, the sin of the nations has
increased to such an alarming extent,
that it is foolish for any one to expect
that the vengeance of God's justice can
any longer be restrained by the hand of
mercy trom falling on the heads of this
generation.

With sin streaming through the streets
of their cities unchallenged and un-
punished, with injustice enthroned as
the dispenser of justice, with ignorance
exalted in their midst as the teacher of
wisdom and truth, with sin approved
of as if it were righteousness, and
righteousness in their midst branded as
if it were iniquity, the nations oannot
much longer remain unpunished by
justice, and preserved by mercy, as a
stink in the nostrils of Jehovah. They
are on the brink of destruction.

Who for a moment can deny the
sad degeneracy of the nations P Who,
though we hear of inventions in the
application of steam and improvements
in the destructive implements of war,
and telegraphic wires, &c, &c, can deny
the sad fact that the nations are dege-
nerating, retrograding, falling far below
the standard of even God's mercy, and

becoming more and more ripe for
destruction P Alas, though a few
ignorantlv may, none trutnfally can ;
for the fruits of degeneracy are too
common and too plain to be denied, all
mankind as it were ffeling it within
and having it branded upon them.

And this is the sad picture of Gentile
life — the Sum total or the full blaze of
Gospel light in this day and age of the
world, while we hear the rumbling of
Jehovah's chariot wjieels, and the cry,
" Behold, the Bridegroom Cometh ; go ye
forth to meet him !"

The present sad condition of the
nations is a complete fulfilment of many
very pointed predictions uttered by the
ancient Prophets concerning the latter
days. For instance, the prophecy of
Paul (in 2 Tim. iii., 1—5,) i* literally
fulfilled in this generation — "This
know also, that in the last days perilous
times shall come; for men shall be
lovers of their own selves, covetous,
boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobe-
dient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
without natural affection, truce -break*
ers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce
despisers of those that are good, traitors,
heady, high-minded, lovers of pleasure
more than lovers of God, having the
form of godliness, but denying the
power thereof: from such turn away.*'

Digitized by

498

OBEDIENCE.

O Christendom ! dost thou here behold
thyself in the mirror of ancient reve-
lation ? Paul of old saw thee reflected
there by the power of God ! And ye
learned teachers, glance at the 9th verse
of the same chapter, and hear ye your
doom pronounced by the Word ye

Srofess to revere. Ye who have turned
le truths of God into fables, who tell us
that the Gospel's gifts and blessings are
done away, — ye powerless members of
a stripped and powerless Gospel, hear
these words of inspiration — " They shall

E roceed no further, for their folly shall
e manifest unto all men." Paul here
intimates the revealing of the Gospel of
saving power from the heavens, to the
complete manifestation of the folly and
ignorance of the learned supporters of
a spurious Christianity. A universal
apostacy from the "faith once delivered
to the Saints," with submission to the
rule of an abominable and fallen church,
has left the nations in their present sad
condition. The Church of Rome has
flooded the world with the grossest
error, and consequently sin. For ages
past she supported tyranny and oppres-
sion by supporting and committing for-
nication with t&e kings of the earth ;
and as tyranny has ever been the
mother ,of revolution, all the blood shed
in the revolutions of the past centuries
of her rule lies to her dark and damning
account.

During the palmy days of the Romish
Chureh, she not only tolerated blood-

shed, tyranny, and injustice, but also
blasphemously, in the name of Jehovah,
sought to legalize transgression by
selling indulgences and pardons. Yes,
and even dared to alter the law of high
Heaven, which tells us to " be fruitful,
and multiply, and replenish the earth;"
(See Gen. ix., 1.) It was that
church, that mystery of iniquity, which
first laid the foundation of the present
existing state of things ; and though
Luther and the Reformers, seeing her
degraded and fallen condition, sought
to reform her, yet they have not done
so. She yet lives and wields a mighty
influence in the earth; and even the
churches originated by the Reformers
are following in her wake, committing
fornication with the kings of the earth,
and making merchandise of the souls
of men.

But as King Jesus is coming to reign
on the earth, he has sent the Gospel by
the ministering of angels, with all its
gifts and blessings, and its primitive
power, and with it a divine, apostolw
authority to administor in its holy
ordinances, that a people may be pre-
pared for living this Gospel. As it is an
emanation from the Great Benefactor
of the human family, it will save the
world from its present deplorable con-
dition, and usher in a reign of righ-
teousness, when the knowledge of the
Lord shall cover the earth as the waters
cover the channels of the mighty deep.

OBEDIENCE.

BY 0. PEARSON.

What a vast deal of importance there
is in the word " Obedience!" The first
command given by God to man was that
of obedience. Whatever part of the
Bible we turn our attention to, we there
find that the only conditions on which
God based his promises was that of
obedience. We find him promising to
the children of Israel the land that
flowed with milk and honey for an
inheritance to them and their children
after them for ever, if they would be
obedient to him and hearken to his
commands given to them through his
servants the Prophets. We find him
again promising to deliver them out of

their captivity and restore them to their
own land, if they would only obey and
serve him aright, and cease from their
wickedness ; and wherever we turn to,
we find that it was only, by being
obedient to his divine laws and com-
mandments that they could obtain their
salvation.

Some people might say that it was
impossible for them to keep his laws in
this day, and therefore it is unreasonable
to demand such a strict obedience from
them, seeing that they are Burrounded
with such difficulties in this world. To
such I would say that he never will
demand more of them than he knows

Digitized by CjOOg IC

OBBDIBNCB.

they are . able to perform ; but he
requires them only to do that which will
be for their eternal good. A father
would not order his son to go and dig
or cultivate the ground when he was
hardly strong enough to carry the
spade. In the same manner, then, does
our Heavenly Father require nothing
more at our hands than we are able to
do. But if we are lazy, and do not
exert ourselves, we cannot expect his
blessing. Let me ask, Where would
all the war and bloodshed have been
that is now rasing in America,
if they had listened to the commands
of God as proclaimed to them through
bis Prophet Joseph, and yielded
obedience to his laws P Why, instead
of war, there would have been peace
and quietness reigning throughout the
land. Indeed, can any rational man or
woman doubs for one moment, if they
look around them, that all the calami-
ties they now see coming upon the earth
have been brought down upon it by the
disobedience and wickedness of the
inhabitants thereof P [

Let the Saints look around them and
notice the difference of opinion there is
in the religious world, the innumerable
dissensions amongst them, and say if
they can see anything like obedience to
the laws of heaven amongst them. No,
they cannot. Does not Christ say that
H is not those who call him Lord, Lord,
bat those who do the will of his Father,
who is in heaven, and keep his com-
mandments P " Oh," says one, "that is
all very well ; but it was only a figure of
speech used by Christ when speaking
to the unbelieving Pharisees." Not so,
my friends. It applies just as much to
the world now as it did then ; and if
they do not believe it now, the time
may come when they will wish they had
done so, and acted up to it, perhaps
when it is too late. But, to return to
our subject. We, as Saints of God in
these latter days, have taken upon us
the name of Christ; we have bowed
ourselves in obedience to his laws and
ordinances as revealed to us through
Mb boly Priesthood, and have been
baptised for the remission of our sins,
and had hands laid upon us for the gift
of the Holy Ghost. But, beloved bre-
thren and sisters, is this the end of our
obedience P No; we have only just
commenced to be obedient. Some of us

may be inclined to say, " I don't see the
necessity for anything else; I have
been baptized, &c, and surely that is
all that can be expected of one in my
circumstances of life.*' We may think
so ; but we shall soon find out our •
mistake, for the kingdom is onward;
and if we do not attend to the instruct
tions and counsels of the Priesthood
from time to time as they come along,
we soon shall be left behind, and wu]
find that we are not capable of keeping
our standing in the kingdom of our
Father in .heaven, and so lose the
Spirit of God, and the blessings we
receive thereby; and that simply by
by disobedience. Therefore, beloved
Saints, it behoves us to be watchful
and unite ourselves together with the
Priesthood of high Heaven, that the
Spirit of our Father may flow in a
direct channel to us all, and enable us
to be watchful and do our utmost to
gain our salvation. For, be assured,
the Devil is ever on the look-out to catch
us in some corner or another at an
unguarded moment ; and if he can but
persuade us to neglect some trivial duty
this time, he is satisfied ; for he knows
that he will be able to tempt us more
easily next time.

We have also been commanded to
use our utmost endeavours to emigrate
to the mountains of Z ion, which perhaps
is a sore trial for some of us to do —
especially those who have friends and
relations in these lands. But if we do
not overcome ourselves, and do our
utmost to obey these instructions, we
shall have to take the reward of our
disobedience by being left behind and
mixed up with the world, and left to
ourselves amidst the desolations which
are coming upon Babylon; and then
we may perhaps be inclined to murmur
against our Heavenly Father, when in
reality it is ourselves that are to blame ;
for we cannot expect Him to do all,
while we look calmly on. No, no, bre-
thren and sisters: let us be up and
doing ; and no matter how little we are
able to save, the Lord will help and
bless our endeavours, if he sees that
we are willing to obey his commands as
far as it lies in our power. I pray that
we may be able to overcome all things,
and at last obtain the promised reward
of our obedience to his laws.

GpOQk

600

THE GOSPEL THE POWBB OF GOD UNTO SALTATION.

THE GOSPEL THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION.

" I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it U the power of God unto satation to i
oetieveth."— Paul.

f |ft is not necessary to enter into detail
as to what Oospel Paul knew was the
the power of God unto salvation, as all
Christians will admit that it was " the
Gospel of Christ but we will endea-
vour to show that the Gospel to which
the Apostle alludes does possess the
power which he attributes to it.

By reference to Heb. iv. 2, we learn
that the Gospel was preached unto the
Israelites in the days of Moses. If, also,
we go back to the antediluvian age, we
shall find that Noah was what the
Apostle calls a 14 preacher of righteous-
ness" — a prophet of God, to whom the
Lord revealed that, on account of the
wickedness of the people, he was about
to destroy them from the earth. Now,
said the Lord unto him, instruot the
people that if they wish to be saved from
the deluge which I am about to bring
upon the earth, it is absolutely neces-
sary that they regard you as my ser-
vant, obey your instructions, and enter
into the ark. Such as do so shall be
saved, but those who do not shall be
condemned. How saved P — spiritually P
No, but temporally ; or, in other words,
both in body and spirit.

We learn also that the Gospel was
preached to Abraham. (See Gal. iii. 8 )
And what effect had it upon those who
received it, and upon those who rejected
itP We should be doing an injustice to
Almighty God to suppose that the Gos-
pel was preached alone to Abraham
in his day : hence it is reasonable to
infer that before Sodom and Gomorrah
were destroyed it was preached unto the
people there. Why preach to them P one
may ask. In order that they who were
willing to receive it might be like the
antediluvians, saved in both body and
spirit. It is not God's policy to destroy
the righteous with tie wicked: hence
Lot, who doubtless received the Gospel,
was commanded to " flee out of Sodom "
before the city was destroyed. His
obedien.ee to the injunction given him
was evidently the effect which the Gos-
pel produced upon him, while subse-
quent events show the dire effect its
rejection had upon unbelievers.

ThtA, again, there is the ease of

Nineveh. The Bible tells us that,
because of the wiokedness of that great
city, Jonah was commanded to go and
cry against it, to reprove the people for
their sins and iniquities, and to offer
them a plan whereby they might
regain the blessings of God and escape
the evils whioh the Lord had threatened
to bring upon them. To the Ninevites it
must have afforded unspeakable plea*
sure to know that the man who had
rebuked them for their sins and pre-
dicted the overthrow of their city had also
"glad tidings*' to communicate to them,
the acceptance of which would avert
the judgments of Jehovah, and restore
unto them his goodwill and pleasure.

Consider now Jerusalem. Before
that city was overthrown, the Lord, true
to his former policy, admonished the
Jews for their sins and iniquities, and
offered them salvation, or pointed oat
a way for their escape, so that all who
would receive the Gospel were to flee
into the mountains " for safety. Why
fleeP Because the fate of Jerusalem
was fixed ; the decree had gone forth that
it should be 44 thrown down " — that not
one stone should be. left upon another.

There seems to be a mistaken notion
extant respecting salvation . Some sup-
pose that so long as their souls are
saved, it matters not what becomes of
their bodies. Others profess to care bat
little how they reach heaven, so long as
they do reach there. Men and women
seem to forget that the spirit and body
are so intimately related to each other
that what affects the one will affect too
other. But, apart from this, God oar
Father is willing and desirous to save
both. We have seen bow in his infinite
mercy he has invariably proffered sal*
vation to all who would accept his offers;
and when he has decreed to destroy a
nation or people, before executing his
decree he has first sent them too (Jot-
pel, which would either save or farther
condemn. For another proof, however,
that the Gospel is the " power of Ged
unto salvation," see Mark xvi, 15, 16,
where we learn that the prmeaoal
believer of the Gospel should be. saved,
whilst oHbelierer should beY

Digitized by

Google

thj! gospkl this poweb of god unto salvation.

501

Professed Christians now tell us that
before " the great and terrible day of
the Lord " come, certain awful judg-
ments are to be poured out upon the
the earth ; and in this they are not mis-
taken, for by referring to the Scriptures
we find their testimony abundantly con-
firmed. Malachi tells us that a day of
heat has to come, which will burn up
the wicked and the ungodly, and entirely
consume them. See also John's testi-
mony, (Rev. xvi, 1 — 10,) where we find
Malachi's testimony confirmed, and
that other judgments are to be poured
out upon the earth. Again, wars have
to transpire ; plagues, famines, pesti-
lences, and earthquakes have to desolate
the land ; men's hearts have to iail them
for fear of the evils that shall come upon
them; and while these things are
transpiring — while the vials of God's
wrath are poured out upon the inhabit-
ants of the earth for their wickedness —
while war, destructive war, exists, by
which the kingdoms of men will be ren-
dered weak and powerless, women will
be husbandless, and children fatherless.
Whither shall the righteous flee to escape
these evils P Has not the Lord formerly
pointed out a way for their escape?
War, destructive war, is in the midst of
the nations — America in particular;
insurrection, turmoil, and strife are rife ;
and now whither shall the righteous
Hee P To where shall the hoary-headed
veteran, bowed down with age, flee for
protection P Where shall defenceless
innocence go for safety P Apparently,
they must suffer with the general mass :
but is this God's decree P If so, how
unlike his former acts !

" But," says one, 44 the present crisis
has come unexpectedlyr-unlooked-for."
That may be ; it may be unexpected to
man, but not to the omniscient Jehovah.
Can we say, seeing this to be the case,

that the creeds and systems and priest-
hoods of the day are of God? No;
otherwise, they would not only have
foretold the present troubles, but have
pointed out a haven wherein the righ-
teous might take refuge while the storm
is raging.

The reader may be ready to exclaim,
Have yours foretold the present troubles
and pointed out the way of escape ?
Yes. See Pearl of Great Price, page
35, by which you will readily perceive
the evils foretold, and the way of escape
declared. . To the mountains — yes, to
the Rocky Mountains, far up in the in-
terior of North America, the people of
God are to gather in the last day?, to
learn the ways of the Lord, to build a
house to his name, and to be hid up
while the wrath of an offended God- 10
poured out upon the land. Reasoning
analogically, can we reasonably suppose
it would be otherwise P We have al-
ready shown that before the deluge oc-
curred, a place of safety for the righteous
was prepared. When Sodom was about
to be destroyed, a place of safety was
pointed out for those who would seek
it ; before Nineveh was destroyed, cer-
tain proposals were made, which, being
accepted, averted the threatened judg-
ments' of Jehovah; before Jerusalem
was destroyed, the haven of rest and
safety was distinctly pointed out ; and
we cannot suppose (and do justice to
the Lord,) that it would be otherwise to-
day. But before the troubles come, the
Gospel, which is " the power of God
unto salvation," and which was to be
"preached in all the world as a witness,"
has been sent; and all will yet find that
obedience to it will save, while the re-
jection of it or disobedience to it wiO
assuredly condemn those to whom it is
sent.

W. T.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 488.)

Shall' the liberty which our fathers pur-
chased at so dear a price be wrenched from
the hands of their children P Shall our
national bannet, which floated so proudly
in the breeze At the Declaration of Inde-
pendence, be disgraced and refuse to show
its motto P Shall we, as American citizens,
fold our arms and look quietly on, while

the shackles of slavery are being fastened
upon our hands, and while men only seek
office for the purpose of exalting themselves
into power P I say, shall we still rush
blindly on and hasten on our own destruc-
tion by placing men in power who neither
regard the interests of the people nor the
prayers of the oppressed P Every American

Digitized by

Google

£02

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

citizen will shout at the top of his voice—
"NO !

Mr. Smith's 1 Views of the Powers and
Policy of the Government' manifest a
Kepublican spirit, and, if carried out, would
*oon place the nation in a prosperous con-
dition and brighten the prospects of those
who now toil so incessantly to support the
profligate expenditures and luxurious equi-
page of the present rulers and representa-
tives of our nation.

Joseph Smith is a man who is in every
way calculated to make a free people
happv. He is liberal in his sentiments, and
allows every man the tree expression of his
feelings on all subjects ; he is sociable and
easy in his manners, is conversant and
familiar on all exciting topics, expresses
himself freely and plainly on the different
methods ot administering the Government,
while he is not ashamed to let the world
know his views and criticise upon his
opinions.

I am, sir, in no way connected with the
Mormon Church, but am disposed to listen
to reason in all cases. I have heretofore
been n warm advocate of the measures of
the Whig party ; but, considering General
Smith's views and sentiments to be worthy
the applause of every citizen of the United
States, and especially the yeomanry of the
-country, I shall in every instance advocate
his principles and use my utmost influence
in his favour. 1 am, sir, yours, in haste,
An American.
Nauvoo Mansion, May 12th, 1844."
Monday, 13.— Heavy thunder showers
during the night. At 10 a.m., went to
my office and conversed with several of
the brethren. Sold Ellis M. Sanders
one hundred acres of land, received
$300 in cash, and his note for $1,000,
and $20 for the Temple. Paid Sisson
Chase $298, and took up a note of
Toung, Kimball, & Taylor's, given for
money they had borrowed for me ; and
gave $10 to Heber 0. Kimball.

At 2 p.m., attended meeting of the
General Council, at which the following
letter fromElder Orson Hyde was read :
" Washington, April 25th, 1844.
Hon. Sir,—

I take the liberty to transmit through you
tQ,the Council of our Church the result of
my labours thus far. I arrived in this place
on the 23rd instant, by way of Pittsburgh,
Philadelphia, and New Jersey.

I found Elder Orson Pratt here, Elder
Page having been called home to Pittsburgh
xm account of his wife's ill health. Elder
O. Pratt has been indefatigable in his
exertions in prosecuting the business en-
trusted to his charge. His business has

been before the Senate, and referred to the
Committee on the Judiciary ; and the report
of said committee is not yet rendered, which
is the cause of his delay in writing to you.

Yesterday we conversed with Messrs.
Hoge, Hardin, Douglas, and Wentworth;
and last evening we spent several hours
with the Hon. Mr. Semple. They all
appear deeply interested in the Oregon
question, and received us with every demon-
stration of respect that we could desire.
Mr. Hoge thought the bill would not pass,
from the fact that there already exists
between England and America a treaty for
the joint occupancy of Oregon, and that any
act of our Government authorizing an armed
force to be raised, and destined for that
country, would be regarded by England at
an infraction of that treaty, and a cause of
her commencing hostilities against us.

But my reply was, These volunteers are
not to be considered any part or portion of
the army of the United States, neither acting
under the direction or authority of the
United States ; and, said I, for men to go
there and settle in the character of emi-
grants cannot be regarded by our Govern-
ment as deviating in the least degree from
her plighted faith, unless she intends to
tamely submit to British monopoly in that
country.

Mr. H. said he would present the memo-
rial, if we desired it. I thanked him for ma
kind offer, but observed that I was not yet
prepared for the bill to be submitted, but
wished to elicit all the facts relative to the
condition of Oregon, and also advise with
many other members relative to the matter ;
and we could better determine then how the
bill should be introduced. We do not want
it presented and referred to a Standing
Committee, and stuck away with five or tea
cords of petitions, and that be the last of it ;
but we want the memorial read, a move
made to suspend the rules of the house, and
the bill printed, &c.

Mr. Wentworth said— 4 ' I am for Oregon
anyhow. You may set me down on yonr
list, and 1 will go for you if you will go fir
Oregon." . .„ . A .

Judge Douglas has been quite ill, but it
just recovered ; he will help all he can ; Mr.
Hardin likewise. But Major Semple sava
that he does not believe anything will be
done about Texas or Oregon this session, for
it might have a very important effect upon
thePresidential election ; and politicians
are slow to move when such doubtful and
important matters are likely to be affectes
by it. He says that there are already two
bills before the house for establishing a
territorial government in Oregon, and ta
protect the emigrants there; and now M
says, Were your bill to be introduced, it mig»

Digitized by

Google

HI8T0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

503

be looked upon that yon claimed the sole
right of emigrating to and settling that new
country to the exclusion of others. He was
in favour of the Oregon being settled, and
t he thought the bills already before the house
would extend equal protection to us; and
equal protection to every class of citizens
was what the Government could rightly do,
but particular privileges to any one class
they could not rightly do.

I observed that the bill asked for no exclu-
sive rights. It asks not for exclusive rights
in Oregon, neither do we wish it. Other
people might make a move to Oregon, and
no prejudices bar their way, and their
motives would not be misinterpreted.

But, said I, Missouri knows her guilt ; and
should we attempt to march to Oregon with-
out the Government throwing a protective
shield over us, Missouri's crimes would lead
her first to misinterpret our intentions, to
fan the flame of popular excitement against
us, and scatter the firebrands of a misguided
zeal among the combustible materials of
other places, creating a flame too hot for us
to enco nter — too desolating for us to indulge
the hope of successfully prosecuting the
grand and benevolent enterprise we have
conceived. We have been compelled to
relinquish our rights in Missouri. We have
been forcibly driven from our homes, leaving
our property and inheritances as spoil to the
oppressor ; and more or less in Illinois we
have been subject to the whims and chimeras
of illiberal men, and to threats, to vexatious
prosecutions, and lawsuits.

Our Government profess to have no power
to help us, or to ledtess the wrongs which we
have suffered ; and we now ask the Govern-
ment to protect us while raising our volun-
teers. And when we get into Oregon we
will protect ourselves and all others who
wish our protection. And after subduing a
. new country, encountering all its difficul-
ties and hardships, and sustaining the just
claims of our nation to its soil, we believe
that the generosity of our Government to-
wards us will be equal to our enterprise and
patriotism, and that they will allow us a
grant or territory of land, which will be both
honourable in them and satisfactory to us.

This, he says, is all very just and
reasonable. But still he thinks that
Congress will take no step in relation to
Oregon, from the fact that his resolution
requesting the President of the United
States to give notice to the British Govern-
ment for the abolition of the treaty of
joint occupation was voted down ; and
while that treaty is in force, our Govern-
ment dare do nothing in relation to that
country. This resolution was introduced
by Mr. Semple to pave the way for the
passage of those bills in relation to a terri-
torial government in Oregon.

AH our members join in the acknow-
ledgment that you now have an undoubted
right to go to Oregon with all the emi-
grants you can raise. They say the exist-
ing laws protect you as much as law can
protect you ; and should Congress pass an
additional law, it would not prevent
wicked men from shooting you down as
they did in Missouri. All the Oregon
men in Congress would be glad we would
go to that country and settle it.

1 will now give you my opinion in rela-
tion to this matter. It is made up from
the spirit of the times in a hasty manner ,
nevertheless I think time will prove it to
be correct : — That Congress will pass no
act in relation to Texas or Oregon at
present. She is afraid of England, afraid
of Mexico, afraid the Presidential election
will be twisted by it. The members all
appear like unskilful players at checkers
— afraid to move, for they see not which
way to move advantageously. All are
figuring and playing round the grand and
important questions. In the days of our
Lord the people neglected the weightier
matters of the law, but tithed mint, rue,
anise, and cummin ; but I think here in
Washington they do little else than tithe
the mint.

A member of Congress is in no enviable
situation : if he will boldly advocate true
principles, he loses his influence and
becomes unpopular ; and whoever is com-
mitted and has lost his influence has no
power to benefit his constituents, so that
all go to figuring and playing round the
great points.

Mr. Semple said that Mr. Smith could
not constitutionally be constituted a
member of the army by law ; and this, if
nothing else, would prevent its passage.
I observed that I would in that case
strike out that clause. Perhaps I took
an unwarrantable responsibility upon my-
self ; but where I get into a strait place,
1 can do no better than act according to
what appears most correct.

I do not intend the opinion that I have
hastily given shall abate my zeal to drive
the matter through, but I have given the
opinion for your benefit, that your indul-
gence of the hope that Congress will do
something for us may not cause you to
delay any important action.

There is already a government esta-
blished in Oregon to some extent ; magis-
trates have been chosen by the people,
&c. This is on the south of the Columbia.
North of that river the Hudson Bay Com-
pany occupy. There is some good country
in Oregon, but a great deal of sandy
barren desert. I have seen a gentleman
who has been there, and also in California.
The most of the settlers in Oregon and

Digitized by

504

XDITOBZAL.

Texas are our old enemies, the mobocrats
of Missouri. If, however, the settlement
of Oregon and Texas be determined upon,
the sooner the move is made the better ;
and I would not advise any delay for the
action of our Government, for there is
such a jealousy of our rising power already,
that Government will do nothing to favor
us. If the Saints possess the kingdom,
I think they will have to take it ; and the
sooner it iB done the more easily it is
accomplished.

Your superior wisdom must determine
whether to go to Oregon, to Texas, or to
remain within these United States, and
send forth the most efficient men to build
up churches, and let them remain for the
time being; and in the meantime send
some wise men among the Indians, and
teach them civilization and religion, to
cultivate the soil, to live in peace with
one another and with all men. But what-

ever you do, don't be deluded with the
hope that Government will foster us, and
thus delay an action which the present is
the most proper time that ever will be.

Oregon is becoming a popular question :
the fever of emigration begins to rage. If
the Mormons become the early majority,
others will not come ; if the Mormons do
not become an early majority, the others
will not allow us to come.

Elder Pratt is faithful, useful, and true ;
he has got the run of matters here very
well, and is with me in all my delibera-
tions, visitings, &c.

Major Semple goes with us this evening
to introduce us to the President, and to
view the White House.

My heart and hand are with you. May
Heaven bless you and me. As ever, I am

Orsox Hyde.
To the Council of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints. 11

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, August 10, 1861.

"PEACE! PEACE! WHEN THERE IS NO PEACE!"

The revolutionary struggle at present raging among the once United States of
America naturally excites a great share of attention on this side of the Atlantic.
Speculations and conjectures as vague and numerous as the rumours which give
them foundation float through commercial and political circles, and every fresh
telegram or item of news received from the Western Continent relative to it,
inspires fresh surmises with regard to the issue. Before the first blow was struck
which announced actual war, strong anticipations were very generally entertained
that the pending difficulties were capable of a peaceable solution ; and even now
that the din of battle is being heard, and blood has been shed on either side, there
are not wanting men, whose opinions are presumed to carry weight with them,
that talk of a compromise, and predict that the waning star of the once great
Western Republic will yet shine forth in a glorious effulgence, with the causo of
war covered over by diplomatic arbitration.

Looking at the subject from a natural point of view, and apart from the light
which the voice of prophecy has thrown upon it, a compromise seems an utter
impossibility, and the idea of it betrays a great amount of ignorance concerning
the genius and characteristics of the belligerent parties. It is not a people who
have been accustomed to look upon the nod of a despot with a reverence almost
equalling that accorded to Omnipotence who' are engaged in the struggle, bnt
a people in whom a strong Republican feeling has grown, until it has become a
part of their very being, and who have learned to look upon themselves as possea-

Digitized by

BDITOBIAL*

505

sing sovereign rights. The cause of the rupture has not been a hasty ebullition
of passion provoked by angry words, or some sudden incendiary act, bnt a feeling
of disunion fomented by themselves, which has been growing and strengthening
for years, and which only required some electric touch to put its gigantic pro-
portions into active motion.

The spirit of war is not confined to a few individuals, select parties, or military
coteries, but pervades the entire mass of the people North and South. This no one
can for a moment doubt who has read the accounts of the prompt responses made
to the demands of both the Northern and Southern Presidents for men and means,
and it is very doubtful if the power which evoked such a display of martial enthu-
siasm could allay it, even if it were inclined to do so. Instead of that, if President
Lincoln vfere disposed to accept a compromise, nothing is more likely than that he
would be crashed beneath the wheels of the car of revolution which has been set in
motion. The storm is raised, and begins to rage bitterlv and fiercely, and stern
necessity compels him to meet the issue ; for the American people, trained to think
independently, and accustomed to act on their own responsibility, would scarcely
permit one whose power rests upon their suffrages to act in opposition to the
united desires of the coalition which he governs. There is no enmity so fierce and
unnatural as that between former friends who have broken peace with each other,
and permitted hatred to usurp the place of amity ; and no war so ruthless and
deadly as that which arrays former colleagues, fellow- citizens, and even kindred
blood in opposing ranks, when, once the earth has drunk the first-fruits of a gory
libation. The very strength of the former ties which bound them together, when
ruthlessly sundered, drives them by the rebound farther apart in feelings, and
strengthens the spirit of resentment against each other. The fact that civil wars
have ever been the bloodiest is demonstrative of this. Sentiments have already
been uttered since this rupture between the North and the South, by men on both
aides, and have been applauded, which nine months ago would have been denounced
as grossly barbarous and fiendish. Brothers and other relatives in the North have
expressed the hope that their brothers in the South, children of the same parents,
and other relatives, would be the first foes they would meet in the conflict, that
they might imbrue their hands in their heart's blood ! The same sentiments pre-
vail and find utterance also in the South towards the North. It is scarcely
reasonable to expect, therefore; that two communities- so deeply embittered against
each other, and who publish and applaud such sentiments as patriotic and praise-
worthy, will very readily agree to a compromise. Again, when we consider that the
Northern and 1 Southern States, once so proud of that unity which made them
mighty among the powers of the earth, have been for years pursuing a course to
destroy every feeling of love between them, and have incessantly fostered a spirit
of hatred against eachother, the idea of a compromise being effected seems still
more unlikely.

But suppose for a moment that a compromise could be effected, what would be
the result P In the first place, the nation is, comparatively speaking, commer-
cially ruined, and years would elapse before it could be said to be in a prosperous
condition. Something might be urged with regard to the natural rebound suc-
ceeding a sudden prostration ; but that prostration in the present case is of so
crippling a nature that such a rebound is impossible.

So many of the business transactions in the States depended on the mainte-
nance of peaceful relations between the North and South, that thousands of
commercial establishments, now that open war has broken out, have already

Digitized by

506

KDITOBIAL.

succumbed, and consequent destitution and want are wide-spread, and daily
becoming more apparent. This is little noticed at present, the enthusiasm of
war being the all-absorbing topic ; but when men would settle down in calmness
and carefully review their position after the excitement of a war-fever had
abated, then the commercial ruin of the once-prosperous Union would stare them
in the face, and the calamitous condition of the States would flood the newspaper
press, now big with the passing news of war. Thousands of families are, at the
present moment, in a condition of starvation, whose natural protectors have gone
to swell the ranks of belligerent forces ; and many' thousands more are in no better
condition, from lack of employment, through factories being closed and workshops
shut up. There is not only a stagnation in general trade, but a complete
suspension of it in many instances, while the means which might have been
employed in continued developments of manufactures are turned into another
and different channel ; added to which, the treasury is impoverished, and the
foundation of a national debt of no mean proportion is laid, while a protective
tariff unprecedentedly heavy threatens legitimate commerce. The surplus
millions which, lying in the treasury, enabled them to gratify greedy, rotten-
hearted place-hunters and cormorant officials, by sending an army against an
unoffending and loyal people four years ago, are squandered ; and a war loan of
five hundred millions of dollars saddles the nation with a burthen which increased
taxation, ever the enemy of prosperity, will have to bear.

But if a compromise were to be effected, would not the cause of the
present rupture remain P It is not in the nature of things to suppose that
grievances which have existed for years, and which have led to hard words, and
still harder blows, could be buried in the grave of oblivion by the bland smiles
and friendly speeches of a few diplomatists, unless indeed the North would
accede to the entire demands of the South, and admit the separation by
recognising them as a sovereign Confederacy ; and this they have pledged
themselves, by every vow which they call sacred, not to do ; and the earnestness
with which they have entered into the work before them testifies to their sincerity.
Neither would this be a compromise, but an entire acceding to the demands which
they have so determinedly repelled. No ; compromise is not the means which
will bring about the end, and the spectacle of a great nation deliberately
destroying itself is grievously appalling ; but the blood of Saints has been found
in its borders, the wrongs it has committed demand retribution, and Missouri
(whose plains drank in the blood of defenceless men and women, persecuted to the
death for the faith they so zealously clung to,) now feejs, in being the theatre of
civil war, part of the retributive justice she has worked out for herself. The
destiny of the once United States is pregnant with a dark and fearful future, as
revolution and fratricidal war sweep like a simoom from north to south.

Let them patch up peace, if they can, — compromise, if possible,— or cover up the
canker-worm at their vitals with a hollow friendship, if in their power ; but the
word of the Lord, through his servant the Prophet Joseph, will have a certain
fulfilment.

Arrival op Missionaries — Appointments. — We have much pleasure in an-
nouncing the arrival of a company of Elders from Zion on missions to this and other
countries at a time when efficient help is so much needed to carry on the labours
of the ministry. Elder J. G. Bigler, Warren S. Snow, George Peacock, George
W.Grant, Parley P. Pratt, John D. Chase, William Fotkeringham, John Talbot*

Digitized by

XOITOntAL.

507

A. W. Van der Woude, and Paul A. Schettler reached Liverpool on Tbnredayjmorn-
ing, the 25 th ult., per steamship Etna, after a pleasant passage of twelve days ; and
Elder Edward Pugh arrived on Sunday morning, the 28th ult., per William
Tapscott.

With the experience of these brethren, and their devotedness to the work of
God, they will prove valuable assistants in promoting the cause of truth, and be
a blessing to the Saints among whom they may labour.

Various changes and appointments have been made from time to time since
the commencement of the year, as wisdom dictated and circumstances required,
which have not f up to the present time, appeared in the columns of the Star.
These we consider it wise to notice now, with the appointments Of those brethren
who have lately arrived.

Elder Thomas Jeremy has been appointed to succeed Elder Benjamin Evans, who has
emigrated, in the Presidency of the Welsh Mission.

Elder W. G. Mills has been appointed to succeed Elder Milo Andrus, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Birmingham District.

Elder William Bramall has been appointed to succeed Elder Claudius V. Spencer, who
has emigrated, in the Presidency of the Southampton District.

Elder W. C. Staines has been appointed to succeed Elder John Cook, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the London Conference. .

Elder Samuel L. Adams has been appointed to succeed Elder Homer Duncan, who has
emigrated, in the Presidency of the Warwickshire Conference.

Elder Edward Cliff has been appointed to succeed Elder B, F. Cook, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Staffordshire Conference.

Elder Eugene Henriod has been appointed to succeed Elder Edward Hanham, who has
emigrated, in the Presidency of the Southampton Conference.

Elder Joseph Bull has been appointed to succeed Elder Joseph Silver, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Bedford Conference.

Elder R. Hodgert has been appointed to succeed Elder Willett Harder, who has emi-
grated, in the Presidency of the South Conference.

Elder T. O. King has been appointed to succeed Elder J. H. Kelson, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Wiltshire Conference.

Elder Willard G. Smith has been appointed to succeed Elder William Moss, who has
emigrated, in the Presidency of the Cheltenham Conference.

Elder Charles Welch has* been appointed to succeed Elder W. T. Cromar, who has emi-
grated, in the Presidency of the Hull Conference.

Elder William Dallin has been appointed to succeed Elder J. Stanford, who has emi-
grated, in the Presidency of the Newcastle-upon-Tyne Conference.

Elder Robert Sands has been appointed to succeed Elder John Reed, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Glasgow Conference.

Elder W. 8. Baxter has been appointed to succeed Elder Charles Turner, who has emi-
grated, in the Presidency of the Dundee Conference.

Eider G. G. Bywater has been appointed to succeed Elder Barry Wride, who has emi-
grated, in the Presidency of the Cardiff Conference (Welsh Mission), and also First Coun-
sellor to President Jeremy.

Elder D. M. Davies has been appointed Second Counsellor to President Jeremy.

Elder R. Palmer has been appointed to succeed Elcler E. Burgoyne, who has emigrated,
in the Presidency of the Monmouthshire Conference (Welsh Mission).

Elder Mark Barnes has been appointed to succeed Elder William Fuller, removed to
labour in this Office, in the Presidency of the Dorsetshire Conference*
* Elder Philip De la Mare has been appointed to succeed Elder Mark Barnes in the Pre-
sidency of the Channel Islands.

Elder W. Thurgood has been appointed to succeed John Redington, released, in the Presi-
dency of the Worcestershire Conference.

Elder W. O. Owens has been appointed to succeed Charles Astle, released, in the Presi-
dency of the Herefordshire Conference.

Elder Richard Bentley has been appointed to succeed Elder S. Pyne, released, in the Pre-
sidency of the Norwich Conference.

Elder John Gibbs has been appointed to succeed W. Coslett, released, in the Presidency
of the Pembrokeshire Conference.

Elder Robert Evans has been appointed to preside over the Carnarvon shire Conference
(Welsh Mission). / ""

Elder George J. Taylor has been appointed to succeed Elder Edwin Scott in the Presi-
dency of the Essex Conference. Elder Scott will continue his labours in that Conference,
under the direction of President Taylor.

Elder John Lindsay is appointed to labour in the Lincolnshire Conference, under the
Presidency of Elder J. S. Brown,

Digitized by

508 EDHTOBIAL.

Elder J. Hudson is appointed to labour in the Warwickshire Conference, under the
Presidency of Elder W. G. Mills.

Elder George Burgon has been appointed to travel in the Southampton District, under the
Presidency of Elder William Bramall.

Elder Alexander Rogers has been appointed to travel in the Scottish District, under the
Presidency of Elder D. M. Stuart.

Elder Septimus Sears has been appointed to travel in the Norwich District, under the Pre-
sidency of Elder K. H. Blackburn.

Elder George Webb has been appointed to travel in the Norwich District, under the Pre-
sidency of Elder E. H. Blackburn.

Elder George Stanneforth will continue to labour in the South District, under the Presi-
dency of Elder George Halliday.

Elder Henry Duce will continue to labour in the Nottingham District, under the Presidency
of Elder J. S. Brown.

Elder Charles H. Rhees will continue to labour in the South District, under the Presidency
of Elder G. Halliday.

Elder Edward T. Edwards will continue to labour in the Bast Glamorganshire Conference,
under the Presidency of Elder Thomas Jeremy.

Elder William C. Moody will continue to labour in the South District, under the Presidency
of Elder G. Halliday.

Rider R. A. McBride will continue to labour in the Manchester District, under the Presi-
dency of Elder John M. Kay.

Elder F. M. Lyman will continue to labour in the London District, under the Presidency of
Elder John Brown. '

Elder Joseph C. Rich will continue to labour in the Nottingham District, under the Presidency
of Elder J. S. Brown.

Elder Thomas C. Stayner will continue to labour in the London District, under the Presi-
dency of Elder John Brown.

Elder George Reynolds will continue to labour in the London District, under the Presidency
of Elder John Brown.

Elder Jacob G. Bigler is appointed to succeed Elder Thomas Crawley in the Presidency of
the Irish Mission. Elder Crawley will still continue his labours in that field, under the
direction of Elder Bigler.

Elder Warren S. Snow is appointed to labour in the South District, under the Presidency
of Elder G. Halliday.

Elder George Peacock is appointed to labour in the Scottish District, under ihe Presidency
of Elder D. M. Stuart.

Elder Alexander Letham is appointed to labour in the Edinburgh Conference, under the
Presidency of Elder D. M. Stuart.

Elder John D. Chase is appointed to labour in the Nottingham District, under the Presi-
dency of Elder J. S. Brown.

Elder Edward Pugh is appointed to labour in the Cheltenham District, under the Presi-
dency of Elder W. Gibson.

Elder George W. Grant is appointed to labour in the Cheltenham District, under the Pre-
sidency of Elder W. Gibson.

Elder Parley P. Pratt is appointed to labour in the Sheffield District, under the Presidency
of Elder Joseph F. Smith.

Elder William Fotheringham is appointed to the Presidency of the South African Mission.

Elders Henry A. Dixon," John Talbot, and Martin Zyderlaan are appointed to labour in the
South African Mission, under the Presidency of Elder Fotheringham.

Elders A. W. Van der Woude and Paul A. Schettler are appointed to go to Holland.

Ever desiring to see the work of God roll on with increasing rapidity, we anti-
cipate much good will result from these changes and appointments, and pray thai
the blessings of heaven may rest abundantly upon the faithful Elders now in the
field, that they may be instrumental in gathering many souls into the fold of
Christ, and hasten the deliverance of those who are desirous of escaping from the
tribulations rapidly coming upon the nations of the earth.

Ama8a M. Lyman,
Charles C. Rich,
. Geo. Q. Cannon.

Notice.— Elder John Tobin, late from Great Salt Lake City, and who has been
labouring in the Glasgow Conference, has been excommunicated from the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for adulterous and other unchristian-like
conduct.

Amasa M. Lyman,
Charles C Rich,
Geo. Q. Cannon.

Digitized by Google

COBBBSPONDSNCB.

509

i CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.

G. S. L. City, June 13, 1861.
Presidents Amasa M. Lyman and Chas.
C. Rich.

Dear Brethren, — Your interesting and
very welcome letter of April 15, 16,
and 17 arrived during my absence on
a trip to the southern setfclemerits, and
I improve the opportunity to reply by
the first mail since my return. We
were much pleased to learn of your
welfare, of your good spirits, of your
interest and diligence in tne great cause
in which we are engaged, and of the
prosperity of that cause in your exten-
sive and important field of labour.

Home affairs moving along quietly,
and my sense of duty and my feelings
incliuing in that direction, on the 1 5th
of May I started on a tour through our
southern settlements, President D. H.
Wells, nrjr sons Joseph A., Brigbam,
John W., and Heber, and a goodly
number of brethren accompanying me.
We travelled by the customary route to
Cedar City. From there we journeyed to
Port Clara by way of the Mountain
Meadows, and returned to Cedar by
way of Tonaquint, Washington, Toker,
(diverging at Toker to Pocketville and
Grafton,) and Harmony. From Parowan
we travelled by the new road across
the mountains to Minersville, and
reached home on the 8th instant,
having been absent a few hours over 24
days. We were much pleased with the
privilege of meeting our brethren, both
in public and private, in their several
settlements ; and they expressed much
gratification that we had been moved
upon to visit them. During our journey
I addressed the brethren in Lake City,
and dedicated their new meetinghouse ;
also addressed the brethren in Spring-
yille, Payson, Nephi, Fillmore, Beaver,
Parowan, Cedar, Pinto, Fort Clara,
Tonaquint. Washington, Toker, Pocket-
ville, Grafton, Harmony, and Miners-
yille. Preeident Wells, Elders W.
Woodruff, G. A. Smith, and John
Taylor, Bishops A. O. Smoot, E. D.
Woolley, and John Sharp, and other
Elders in the company also addressed
the different congregations, all of which
seemed to rejoice in the instructions
given ; and we trust those instructions

will prove of much benefit to the true
welfare of all the honest-in-heart who
beard them. The company highly
enjoyed the trip, and returned much
refreshed and invigorated for the re-
newed prosecution of home duties.

The settlements south of the Rim of
the Basin are as yet small, but it is
expected they will rapidly strengthen
and increase as the demand for cotton
increases under increased facilities for its
manufacture. They can also furnish a
large amount of fruit to settlements
north of them, in exchange for wheat,
&c. ; also wine, olive oil, castor oil;
indigo, molasses, and sugar, — a trade so
mutually beneficial that we trust soon
to see it exj>and more commensurately
with the wants of the people.

While at Parowan I conversed with
Bishop Warren in regard to his starting
a cotton factory in that place, and!
have also conversed with brother Ebe-
nezer Hanks upon the same subject,
proffering the use of the building lately
occupied as a bucket factory. They
both express a readiness to engage in
the manufacture of cotton as speedily
as circumstances will permit ; and if
they are energetic in the matter, they
can soon begin to supply a goodly
portion of that class of goods we have
thud far been obliged to import. Quite
a breadth is planted in cotton this year,
ancL the planting will increase as
facilities multiply for its profitable
manufacture.

We visited the mines near Miners-
ville, and at once saw that an abundance
of lead, zinc, and antimony, and red,
yellow, and white point can be pro-
duced there, so soon as the proper skill
and attention are devoted to those
matters.

Upon our return home we found all
well, with the exception that many,
especially children, were somewhat
afflicted with an influenza or cold, which
however appears to be passing off
without having proved fatal to any, bo
far as I have heard, except a few small
children. During our absence, brother
Isaac Chase and Elder W. WoodrufPs
father died.

On the 12th inst. I received by pOBJ
the following telegram

Digitized by Google

510

CORRESPONDENCE.

" Omaha, Jnne 3.-67 waggons, 226 souls,
started for Utah, 29th May ; D. H. Cannon,
Captain. 620 Saints arrived on the 2nd
inst. with Milo Andrus.

J. Gatbs."

States news to the 7th inst. from St.
Louis informs us tnat the war spirit is
still prevalent between the North and
South, though as yet no engagements of
any special importance.

Prospects for an abundant harvest cfi
fruit, wheat, and other rich products of
the earth continue favourable; and
with the people very generally there is,
to all appearance, a constantly increas-
ing spirit, seal, and energy in seeking
first the kingdom of our God and its
righteousness.

It would have been gratifying to
have selected a greater number of
lilders for Foreign Missions last spring;
but, as already advised, we were sending
bo large a number to Florence to aid
the immigration across the Plains, that
wisdom dictated the selection of a com-
paratively small number of Missionaries
at that time. We doubt not the Elders
abroad will, so far as consistent, make
up in diligence what they lack in
numbers, until the way opens for sending
more labourers into the field.

Praying for the blessings of heaven
to attend you, brother George Q., your
fellow-labourers, and all the Saints in
your Mission and throughout the world,
I remain

Your brother in the Gospel,

Brigham Young.

SWISS AND ITALIAN MISSION.

Basle, June 12, 1861.
President Cannon, — There are a few
scattered Saints, in various parts of the
Missions, who are deprived of the
.privilege of meeting together, or receiv-
ing visits froni the Priesthood. Since
January, 1861, we have organized three
newBranches in Switzerland, the greater
art of the members having been
aptized Since that time.
The work in Italy, by report of Elder
Rivoir,,has been at a stand-still for a
long time. In Germany our prospects
' are brightening ; still we find it neces-
sarj V> use a great deal of caution, and
encfeavoiir Wcounsel in wisdom, teaching
the 8aints to keep the laws of the land
in which they dwell Elders Ballif and

Gerber, from the Valley, are very
efficient in moving from place to place
among the Saints, comforting them and
giving such instructions as are neces-
sary for the spreading of the Gospel,
and carrying out the instructions given
us in our appointments.

We feel that the Church is in a more
healthy condition at present than it has
been for some time, although many of
the Saints are entirely out of work, and
know not what course to pursue to gain
a livelihood.

By letter from Elder Muller in Ger-
many, we learn that he has accomplished
nothing in the way of preaching the
Gospel, but has gone to work making
nails. Elders Goes, Huber, and Looser,
native Elders, are doing exceedingly
well in the ministry.

Although persecution still rages, and
occasionally an Elder gets attacked in
the street, knocked down, pounded, and
his hairs pulled out, yet our lives are
spared and the Lord has blessed us ; for
which we feel truly thankful.

With many prayers for your pros-
perity, and the prosperity of all who
labour for the kingdom of God,
Yours faithfully,

John L. Smith,

VUSTRALIA.

Hinton, April 23, 1861. v
President George Q. Cannon.

My dear Brother, — I embrace this
present opportunity of addressing you,
to let you know that I am still in
existence in this far-off' corner, and
that, amid the trials and troubles of life,
I am still endeavouring to tread the
narrow path.

From Adelaide, South Australia, I
continue to receive, every Quarterly
Conference, a very good report. They
do not increase in numbers, but they
are doing the best they can, and,
although poor, are living their religion,
and would gladly gather home if they
had the means. They number, in that
Conference, 29. The Hunter River
Conference, when I wrote last (in Sep-
tember), numbered 26 ; since which time
I have baptized six ; so that we have
now 32. But, my dear brother, this is
a dark corner ; and I believe that it
will not be until after, the people of these
lands shall have iti ^<3®&^7 the

CORRESPONDENCE.

511

judgments of the Almighty, that they
will ever be prevailed upon to obey the
Gospel.

I am doing the best I can to keep the
work alive in this quarter. We have
meetings in Hinton every second Sunday,
in the afternoon, where we in general get
more or less of the people to attend ;
in the morning, at Morpeth; every
fourth Sunday at the Faterson; and
every fourth Sunday at Rosebank, where
I reside ; and I must acknowledge the
fact that, although I cannot get many
Of the people to attend the meetings,
yet they all treat me and my family
with kindness and great respect.
• I will now, my dear brother, conclude
this epistle by asking God to ever bless
you and those connected with you in
the Presidency, with wisdom and Know-
ledge, so that you may be enabled to
counsel and instruct all committed to
your watchcare, — with a desire also
that you will pray for my welfare and
enlightenment in all matters devolving
npon me, so that I may be enabled to .
perform the duties required of me, even
better than I have hitherto done.

Thomas Ford.

ENGLAND.

NORWICH DISTRICT. '

t Hemel-Hempstead, Bedfordshire,
July 14, 1861.

President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since my last to you,
I have been travelling through the
Norwich Conference, and have visited
all the Branches, although many are
-very isolated from the main body. I
am happy to say that the Spirit of our
God. is with them, and they are con-
tinually striving to apply the Gospel to
their daily life ; and it is a great gratifi-
cation to us to know that the Saints in
these smaller Branches are on the
improve, as well as the larger ones.
, On Saturday, the 29th ult., Presidents
Lyman and Rich arrived in Norwich,
and on Sunday the 3rd held Conference,
ofwnichyou have a brief report. It
was a day long to be remembered by
the Saints in the Norwich Conference.

On July 2nd the Presidency and
myself rode twenty-five miles to the,
small town of Lowestoft, pleasantly

situated on the sea coast We hired
the Town Hall, and the news spread all
over the town that two of the Twelve
would preach, and at 8 p.m. the large
and splendid hall was filled to excess.- .
We had over 500 strangers, besides a
goodly number of Saints. All enjoyed
themselves.

'On Sunday, the 7th, we held a Con-
ference in Bedford. A large number
of the Saints were present, and I am
sure that they enjoyed themselves under
the teachings of the Presidency. Much
of the Spirit and power of God was
manifest throughout the day, and all
felt the influence and power of the
Gospel. All returned to their homes
feeling that it was the best Conference
they had attended for many years.

On Wednesday, the 10th, the Presi-
dency held a meeting in the town of
Luton. It was well attended, and gave
satisfaction to all. ,

We have been preaching out-doors
for the last two months, and I am happy
to say with good effect ; and we feel
that in the places where we do not see
the fruits of our labours we are casting
our bread upon the waters, to be seen
after many days.

On the 11th inst. the Presidency bid
us adieu, and took train for London.

To-day I have word from the Tra-
velling Elders in this and the Norwich
Conference. All breathe a good spirit
of energy and life, and they talk of
baptizing a number soon. I am happy
to say that all the Priesthood throughout
the entire District are united, and en-
deavour to second all our efforts to roll
on the work of God.

The spirit of emigration is every-
where manifest throughout the District,
and many look forward to the spring of
1862 with fond anticipations that they
will have the happy privilege of bidding
adieu to their native land and the
graves of their ancestors, to fulfil the
great command of Heaven to come out
of Babylon, that they may not partake
of her sins and receive not of her
plagues. From present appearances, we
shall, in the spring of 1862, more than'
double our last spring's emigration.

Ever praying God to bless you in
your Presidency, I am yours in the
truth,

Ellis H. Blaoxbubk.

Digitized by CjOOglC

512

SUMMARY. — PORTBY. ADDRESS.-~DBATH.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

disturbances in the
It is said that Viana is

Portugal. — The
Algarve continue,
also disturbed.

Hungary. — The resistance to the collec-
tion of taxes in Hungary still continues,
and even Austria can only spare troops
enough to quarter on the refractory towns
and villages in detail. Here and mere an
unfortunate place, finding itself unable to
endure the burden of the soldiers quartered
on it, gives in and pays, but the majority
hold out. To seize the goods and chattels
of the refractory is well nigh useless, for
purchasers cannot be found m the neigh-
bourhood.

Morocco. — The Madrid papers assert that
anarchy and disorder reign in Morocco. As
instances, they mention the assassination of
Moorish travellers by the Kabyles of Vadras;
and state that their crimes remain un-
punished.

PoLAND.*-In Warsaw there are what are
called "important rumours'* about the
Cacasus. It is said that the Cossacks who

are entrusted with the defence of the frontier
have shown symptoms of great disaffection,
so as almost to rouse fears of a mutiny
among them. This would account for the
inactivity which has been observed this year
along the whole line of these borders.

American States.-— A Philadelphian from
Richmond ^reports the Confederate force
there 10,0()0, and at Manasses Junction
60,000 men. The f*ean£fcYorkstown has
been seized by the Confederates, who have
iron-cased and mounted her with eight 64-
pounders. The Government has. decided
that no more fugitive slaves shall be allowed
to follow the enemy.

West Indies. — A letter of the 9th instant
from Port-au-Prince informs us that the
people of St Domingo had commenced a
movement for resisting the annexation- to
Spain, and that a fleet of Spanish steamers
were lying before the town, threatening to
bombard it in case the demands of the
Spaniards were net complied with.

POETRY.

1 AN OPEN VISION."

Angels still are on the earth !

I hate seen them, felt their breath,
In the chill simoom in? dearth,
' * In the atmosphere of death.

Angels* Yes, they hovered round
When affliction laid me low,

Placing me on holy ground,
Making heaven where they go !

Angels ! They have brought to me
AH that I had strength to beat ;

Through the gloom thi y made me see
Vision glorious, bright, and fair.

O. S. L. City, April, 1861.

Angels ! Hearcn is in the name,
Ou my track they've, ever been :

If oue left, another came,
Faithful through life's c

Guardian spirit !— angel mine!—
Planet star that guides my soul.

Watch my steps through coming time.
Cast e'er me thy sweet control.

Radiant spirit ! shedding light
On my pathway, drear and lone,

Leave me never, day or night.
Till I reach my Father's home !

Iota.

Address.— John Clark, 103, Hodgson-street, Sheffield.

Di«d— In London, on the 18th of July, Miss Rebecca' Jones, of toiumpt on, i i t%t twe lty-sixt'i y a of
"her age. She died full of faith in her religion. She was beb/ed by r" *

amiable disposition, and her grca*. fortitude in suffer! i g.

• all who knew ber fo/ her kind and

Condition of the Nations. 497

Obedience : 498

The Gospel the Power of God unto Salvation... 500

History of Joseph Smith 601

Bditorial — " Peace ! Peace! when there is no
Peace!' — Arrival of Missionaries. — Appoint-
ments.— Notice..... 504

Correspondence— America: Letter from President

CONTENTS.

B» Yonng.— Swiss and Italian Mission : Letter
from President J. L Smith.— Australia : Letter
from Elder T. Ford.— England : Letter from

» Elder Blackburn 50*

Summary of News and Passing B*»nt« — ... ... ... o»

Poetry.— M An Open Vision" 51S

Address „ ait*

Death ; t..„... Ms

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 4 J, ISLINGTON.
£ONT>ON:

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, SO, FLORENCE STREET, CROSSE
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. .

Digitized by

Google *

• THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL* STAK.

4 noj^u shall eome even U the end* of the earth ; for the lord hath a controvert? with the natioto : he tvffi
. fhtad wUlnto fieeh ; he will five t*np tha^ are wicked to the mvord, eaUh the Lord."— J»r*mi ah.

sfc, Vbi. xxiii.

Saturday, August 17, 1861. *

Price One Pe:

j EEMARKS BY PRESIDENTS CANNON AN© LYMAN,

MADE AT THE CONFERENCE HELD IN LONDON, JULY 14th, 1861.

President Cannon rose and said —
Brethren, Sisters, and Friends, — If
there is one thing for which we should
Ibe more thankful than for anj other, it
is this— that we have the knowledge
that God has put himself in communi-
cation, with, men, and rerealed truth*
which wiH aid' them in their onward

/course to the celestial kingdom of our

'lleavfeflly Father. Saving this know**
Utfge, we have a testimony wlthja us
4l)atwehave embraced IheGospe'f, which*
6i»uM never gm* from the Bible.
rWIra some men it is unpopular to say
anything which may appear derogatory
ito the chtfsa<$ter of thatjtK>ok, Their
affections and their faitji are concen-
trated upon it ; 'the^falmost worship it as
a God. They reverence* it as something
so great, so sublime, so noble, so truthful,
and so clear a reflection of God's oounte*

"nance, that to deprite them of itwould
"be, they say, to derive them of what
they hold most dear, and prize above
everything they have besides. I would
jlcrt lessen their affection for the Bible
T taking a large copy of it from the table
Before him] . K certain amount of reve*
-ranee for it is good. It is good to read
hefe of the holy and good. It is
. good to have confidence in goodness, in

- holiness, in good and pare men. But
if we were to place all our confidence in

; this book, Ve should put something

between us and a that God, the
light of whose wisdom illuminates
its pages and gives it all it* worth. . To
do this is to worship the b6$k: J call
it idolatry. I know that itt calling it$a
I am subjecting myself te tbe»anatheuias~
of those who wof^ip the B i ble. But I
would as soe^ftejrtrip Peter ;the Vir-
gin* Mat^wWot^a^ to
worahip a boot. "$t do not look upon it *
as the Creator, nor as the fountain or
source of all light. I do not look upon
it as the Deity. I can read its pages,
and be instructed by the record of the
teachings and sufferings of men who
have, like myself, laboured and con-
tended for the truth ; and it strengthens
me to* persevere and faithfully exert
myself, until I, like them, f> may obtain
eternal life. Raadiflg ft thus, the Bible
is jrtduable, and should be appreciated,
and command love and reverence ; but
it should not be placed upon a pedestal
and worshipped. It is through the sub-
stitution of the book for God that con-
fusion * prevails through the religious
world. They put it in the place of the
revelation, and truths, and the gifts of
God of which it tells us. It is through
this substitution that infidelity marshals
its hosts by thousands ; for why should
they adore a book that sccuis to split
up f he religious world, and produce such
confusion?

Digitized by

Google

514

BEMABKS, ETC.

I want to teach you not to go to the book
'alone, but beyond it — to the fountain
whence it emanated — to Him who has
filled us with noble and lofty aspira-
tions, who has brought us into intimate
connection with himself by revealing
unto us his Gospel. We ought
not to depend for our salvation
and exaltation upon books, but upon
the Creator of the world, who in-
spired the men who wrote this book.
Possession of God's Spirit enables us to
know whether this book is what it pro-
fesses to be, and exalts us to the same
level as the men whose narratives are
here found.

In making these remarks, it is not my
wish to weaken your love for this book ;
but it is to give you to understand that
it alone is not aM that is necessary to
build up the kingdom of God. It is to
induce you to look beyond it to that
Being who is the fountain of revelation,
and who is the true source of all intel-
ligence ; so that if this book were burned
and destroyed — if the millions of other
books were all destroyed, there would
still be a fountain of intelligence acces-
sible to you from the life-giving stream,
of which you might eternally drink.

It was not books alone that directed
the ancients ; the law of God was writ-
ten in their hearts. They drank at the
fountain of knowledge which God had
opened up unto them as it flowed forth
pure from himself, and thus were ena-'
bled to write the records which we now
so much venerate. It is, our privilege
to receive and enjoy this same Spirit
and knowledge. This Spirit makes
known unto us the object for which
religion exists — for which the Gospel was
revealed in ancient days, not to inspire
blind reverence in books, or even in the
men who have recorded their faith, their
gifts, and their endowments ; but to lead
men on in all ages to the exaltation God
has reserved for them, and to lead them
to an acquaintance with their Father
and God.

Brethren and sisters and friends, in
standing before you this afternoon, I
appeal not to the book alone, although
I love to appeal to its pages. I stand
before you as a servant of God, an Elder
of the Church of Jesus Christ, who has
received the Priesthood from the eter-
nal God, who has authority from God
to call upon men to come unto him. I

do not not appeal to books to prove my
authority, but to heaven,— point you to
Him whose blessings are ready to be
poured Out in rich abundance upo» all
who will in humility and faith make
known their wants and inquire of him.
We have come to tell you that there is
a God in heaven — a living Goo! — a
speaking God ; to tell you that we know
tnis, and have realized hia blessings
through obedienc ; to tell you that the

Eath that has been trod to obtain these
lessings is open to you,; to tell you
that God has placed in his Church the
living eracles, like he did in ancient
days, who speak not in fables or dark
sayings* enveloped in mystery and ob-
scurity, as the uncertain oracles of
ancient Greece, but in plain terms,
speaking in his stead in the midst of the
people. -Are not these good tidings ?
What manner of men would you expect
to see, were those who were his
oracles in ancient times, and who
wrote the books which are now vene-
rated, to come and stand here before
you to-day, as they stood before the
people then P Think you that they
would be very different in appearance
to ourselves — that they would be
perfect beings, more finely proportioned
or more beautiful than others of God's
children P No. They were men of
" no beauty that men should desire 1 '
them, but they were rough and mostly
unlettered men taken from the lowest
ranks of life — fishermen. They were
not men whose majestic mien struck the
beholders with admiration, the music
of whose voices filled the raging multi-
tude and awed them into silence. Tbej
were men of like passions with our-
selves — with .frailties as great as ours —
persecuted, tortured, marred, forsaken
by nearly all but God. What, then,
made them great P Their contempora-
ries would tell .us they were, wicked
men, deserving of death and unworthy
of credence. They said they were wine-
bibbers, gluttons, evil men — men guilty
of heinous crimes. But they lived
through all this, because God had
opened their minds and given them his
Spirit, inspired by which they wrote
those epistles and narratives that to-day
we hold as most precious.

Have you, brethren and sisters and
friends, thought of the condition of the
men who wrote this book [holding up

Digitized by

BEMABXS, ETC.

515

the Bible] ? They were then des-
pised and rejected. They were charged
with adding to the word of God. "We
have Moses and the* Prophets! " cried
the Pharisees then. "What need of
more revelation P" It was with that
generation as with this: they were
willing to venerate the memory and ac-
cord great honour to the servants of
God who had lived ; but those who were
in their midst they hated and despised.
Jesus said to them then — " Ye build the
tombs of the Prophets, and garnish the
sepulchres of the righteous, and say, If
we had been in the days of our fathers,
we would not have been partakers with
them in the blood of the Prophets.
Wherefore ye be witnesses unto your-
selves that ye are the children of them
which killed the Prophets." The men
of their day villified the servants of God ;
they slandered them — paved their way
with persecutions. You do not believe
the things they said about them ; but
you look back and think how gladly
you would have listened to the teach-
ings of those men, have wandered with
them from place to place, have watched
their countenances, and noted every
smile, and gathered up every tear. If
we really possess this feeling insincerity,
we shall feel to value the teachings and
counsels of those men now living who
hold similar authority. We should re-
member that it is not more unlikely for
God to give Prophets and Apostles and
revelations now than in any other
period in the world's history. There
was no more evidence then that there
should be such officers, or that the
Saviour should come, than there is now
that there should be, or that he will come
the second time. But we are despised
as were the Saints of old ; our Prophets
are traduced as were the former dis-
ciples of Jesus. Mankind look at Joseph
Smith and his brethren, and they see
they were of humble origin, they hear
all the evil reports circulated so indus-
triously concerning them; and they ima-
gine Joseph especially to have been one
of the basest or men. They look at our

generations, and they imagine these
ave not been causeless, forgetting that
the Gospel has always had these things
to contend with — that the Church in
ancient times had just such slander and
persecution as we have. Stephen said
to the Jews— "Which of the Prophets

have your fathers not persecuted ?" So
universally had persecution and death
lain in the pathway of the servants of
God that he could with propriety ask
such a question, and add, "And they
have slain them which have showed be-
fore of the coming of the Just One."
Jesus sets forth this plainly when he
says to the disciples that " the time
cometh that whosoever killeth you will
think he doeth God service." They
were to come up, as must all the people
of God, through great tribulations.

It is no new thing for men to be
driven, persecuted, and martyred; nor
is it a new thing that slanders should be
circulated, so that men's lives should be
sacrificed, as were those of Joseph and
Hyrum and others. They, like all the
Prophets, were persecuted by their con-
temporaries because they were guilty of
crimes, they said; but I say because
they had received revelations from hea-
ven — because they were constituted
God's oracles on earth. We know how
harmless and simple a thing it is to
meet for the breaking of bread in re-
membrance of our Lord's death. We
would scarcely imagine that any evil
construction-could be put upon such an
observance ; yet the statement is left on
record that the partaking of the sacra-
ment was believed (in the days when
Christianity was hated with that inten-
sity of hatred with which truth has ever
been met,) to be a real cannibal banquet,
in which the body of a freshly-murdered
child was devoured by the votaries of
this "new and horrible superstition."
This slander, it can readily be supposed,
caused them cruel persecution. Thus
charges have been made against us as a
people, based upon no better foundation,
and we have been affected similarly by
them. But gather them all up, and they
will not be any worsoor any more nume-
rous than the crimes alleged against the
ancient Saints. Future history will
vindicate us, as history now vindicates
the early Christians ; and the time will
come when these statements of mine
will be justified by all the reliable
records of the age which can then be
found.

My desire is to impress upon your
minds that God is the same yesterday,
to-day, and for ever, — that having
restored his Priesthood to the earth, the
words and acts of those who bear it are

Digitized by

516

BBMABXI, ETC.

now entitled to the same respect as the
written words of those who formerly
were endowed with it upon the earth, or
as their words and acts would he if they
were here now as they once were on the
earth. They were mortal and suhject
to weaknesses ; they were maligned and
slandered and accused of many crimes ;
yet they were servants of God, they were
obedient and devoted to the truth, and
held the authority to act in the Lord's
stead in the midst of the neople. So it
is with those who hold tne Priesthood
now.

My testimony is as T have borne it :
it is true. You who have not embraced
the truth can obtain a testimony for
yourselves by asking the Lord in the
appointed way.

My prayer is that the Lord may bless
you with that knowledge that will enable
you to escape the corruptions of the
world, and impart unto you his Holy
Spirit to enable you to practise righ-
teousness and live through all the per-
secutions and wrongs that you, in com-
mon with his people, have to endure.
Amen.

President Lyman said — " I wish you
to make yourselves as comfortable as
you can in your very crowded condition.
I do not wish to compel any one to
believe against their will, or without
evidence, in our sincerity. I do not
say what you shall think of our state-
ments. They are simply our testimony,
and our testimony is true ; for we do
verily know that we are honest, and that
a dispensation of the Gospel has been
revealed, and we are its called and
chosen ministers, as we say we are. If
you do not perceive at once the truth,
you have the same opportunity to learn
this that has been extended to us to
obtain this so-much-to-be-desired and
invaluable knowledge, in the light of
which sin and wrong appear in au tHeir
disgusting deformity to be shunned as
you pursue the way of truth. I want
all tlje Saints, and all the sinners, (for I
intend, in the exercise of the principle
of true godly charity, to step over that
little imaginary line drawn by bigotry
and cold charity — the deplorable results
of ignorance of God and the truth,) and
all classes of .men, in all the varied
conditions, walks, and oircumstanoes in

life, to have all the mutual charity they
can. It will, if exercised, diffuse
among the mixed communities of men
over the wide earth the spirit* of peaceful
harmony and goodwill, which cannot
fail to still the storm of passionals
strife, and do all good. This will con-
stitute the so-much-needed preparation ,
of the mind for the proper inception of
the great work of its own emancipation
from the bondage of ignorance, thus
forming the firm basis upon which to
build (by the extended and limitless
acquisitions of knowledge — the parent
element of power,) the superstructure
of its greatness in a future of inter mi- .
nable increase of glory. I am, with
my brethren, convinced, as all who read
the Scriptures free from prejudice may
be, that the Gospel was a religion of
practical purity of life, which is evinocd
m the nature of its requirements, as the
liar is required to cease his lying, the
thief his -stealing, the corrupt his cor-
ruption, and the unrighteous his
thoughts. This I would have all the
people of the world know — that an
abstinence from the perpetration of sin
is its death, or the destruction of its
power over the human soul. Thus,
obedience to "the precept, " Thou shalt
not steal." would prevent the develop-
ment of that odious character, the thief.
The same with all the dark catalogue
of wrongs, the bitter fruits of which
have filled and do fill the world with
wretchedness and deep sorrow and woe.

It would seem that weak and but
partially-educated humanity could un-
derstand the truth that, if they never
fall into the mire, they may alwavs
remain clean, — not because it is in tne
Bible, but because it is a correct prin-
ciple, whether written in the Bible or
on the face of the heavens, or heard in the
deep- toned thunders that shake creation,
or in the still small voice of the Spirit
as it utters its deathless testimony in
the depths of the waiting, listening soul
of the believer.

As long as men bow down to idols,
(I do not care of what they consiA
whether it is an idol of wood or stone,
or whether it is a written record of
the actions of God or man,) they are
alike impotent to save their worshippers
in all their blind adoration : hence tin?
still remain the same unenlightened,
needy, helpless mortals, held hj the

Digitized by

B2MABXS, *TC.

517

chains of their ignorance in their utter
state of helpless misery and woe, with
the future with all its solemn, grand,
and momentous realities awaiting their
coming. Thus they are slaves of sin
and darkness. In the midst of heaven's
richest provisions from its exhaustless
stores of all the elements of light and
bliss, they are grovelling in the depths
of moral and physical degradation, dark-
ness, and wretchedness, from which the
practical religion of Jesus, as leading
them to a knowledge of God as eternal
life, alone can deliver them and give
liberty to the sin-enchained soul of
uneducated humanity.

From the foregoing it is plainly to
be seen that the great and ruling prin-
ciple of the Gospel, as taught by Jesus,
is this — that we must cease to do evil
and learn to do well, in order to bring
about the happy result and blissful
condition of things of which my brother
has spoken. The transformation of man
involved in this view of the Gospel we
have entertained and partially presented
to you is not the work of a moment, and
may not be consummated during our
brief stay on the shores of time. Hence
it will be far better to continue to
struggle for years than to fail. I do
not expect to see you transformed in a
day, a week, a month, or a year ; but to
render this happy consummation sure,
and the attainment of this high destiny
sure, I wish to see you permanently
and perpetually increasing in your store
of knowledge, that you may be ever be-
coming more and more rich in the pos-
session of the elements of power, that
you may, through their exercise, use,
and application in the regulation of
your actions to please God, be the re-
cipients of the fulness of the blessings
of the Gospel of peace.

I have never asked God to do aught
but bless any one ; I hope I never may.
All are already, sufficiently miserable.
I wish you to understand, both Saint
Jfcnd sinner, that if ever you obtain
lieaven, happiness, and glery, it will be
tipon the principle of practical purity.
I talk of religion as a system of educa-
tional salvation, revealed by Jesus, that
may be made subservient to the interest
and blessing of humanity in its salva-
tion from sin and its degenerating and
damning influence. Where is the ne-
cessity for it, if it will not make the peo-

ple here in London a pure people P There
is theorizing enough here to damn Lon-
don, while its millions listen to theory
and neglect the practice of those virtues
that raise the inebriate from the gutter,
and the debauchee from the haunts of
coruption, and the profane from his
profanity, — in fine, the sinner from all
the errors of his ways. I want it un-
derstood that there is one man in the
world who dares to say that it is practical
religion that is wanted. Here in Lon-
don, in the midst of its vastly-increased
religious facilities, under the influences
of misconceived and wrong opinions,
men are ever learning, but never com-
ing to the knowledge of the truth,
like the man who sought for, but did
not find work, for this reason — he never
sought where it was to be found.

Another important consideration I
would impress upon your minds is this —
It Is not enough to say that we
are pure and honest there, but we
must continue to practise honesty
when we leave this meeting. This is
our duty. Well, what is God's dutyP
It is God's duty to tell us, as he has
done, to cease to lie, to cease to steal,
—in short, to cease from all evil, and
cleave to him and the truth with all the
strength of affection. It would not
change the fact of the truth being the
truth if I, myself, should become a
castaway.- it* would only prove that I
was a fool, choosing death instead of
life, and darkness instead of light, and
preaching salvation to others which I
fail to attain to myself.

While we abide in the practice of
truth and virtue, we plant the rose of
contentment along that thorny way
which leads to the opening future of
joy or misery. This Gospel will place
you all in the possession of these bless-
mgs,if received and applied by you : with-
out this application it is worthless to us.
We have no quarrel with any, but
would that all would come to the know-
ledge of the truth and be saved. For
this we ever feel to labour and pray.

Reported by Elder George J. Taylor.

[We are under obligations to Mr. J ohn
T. Dexter, for his report of our remarks
to the Christian Cabinet, from which we
have been enabled to complete the above
report. — En. M. S.] i

518

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 505.)

Also the following letter : —

" Washington, April 26, 1844.

"Dear Sir,— To-day I trouble you with
another communication, which you will
please have the goodness to lay before our
Council.

We were last evening introduced to the
President at the White House by the polite-
ness of Major Semple, where we spent an
hour very agreeably. The President is a
very plain, homespun, familiar, farmer-
like man. He spoke of our troubles in
Missouri, and regretted that we had met
with such treatment. He asked us how we
were getting along in Illinois. I told him
that we were contending with the difficulties
of a new country, and labouring under the
disadvantageous consequences of being
driven from our property and homes in
Missouii.

We have this day had a long conversation
with Judge Douglas. He is ripe for Oregon
and the California. He said he would resign
his seat in Congress if he could command
the force that Mr. Smith could, and would
be on the march to that country in a month.

I learn that the eyes of many aspiring
politicians in this place are upon that
country, and that there is so much jealousy
between them that they will probably pass
no bill in relation to it. Now all these
politicians rely upon the arm of our Govern-
ment to protect them there ; and if Govern-
ment were to pass an act establishing a
Territorial Government west of the Rocky
Mountains, there would be at once a tre-
mendous rush of emigration ; but if Govern-
ment pass ho act in relation to it, these men
have not stamina or sufficient confidence in
themselves and their own resources to
hazard the enterprise.

The Northern Whig members are almost
to a man against Texas and Oregon ; but
should the present Administration succeed
in annexing Texas, then all the Whigs
would turn round in favour of Oregon ; for
if Texas be admitted, slavery is extended to
the South ; then free States must be added
to the West to keep up a balance of power
between the slave and tne free States.

Should Texas be admitted, war with
Mexico is looked upon as inevitable. The
Senate have been in secret session on the
ratification of the treaty of annexation; but
what they did we cannot say. General
Gaines, who was boarding at the same house
with Judge Douglas, was secretly ordered
to repair to the Texan frontier four days
ago, and left immediately. I asked Judge

D. if that did not speak loud for annexation
He says, No. Santa Anna, being ajesloas
hot-headed pate, might be suspicious the
treaty would be ratified by the Senate, ani
upon mere suspicion might attempt some
hostilities, and Gaines has been ordered
there to be on the alert and ready for action,
if necessary. Probably our navy will in a
few days be mostly in the Gulf of Mexico.

There are many powerful checke-upon our
Government, preventing her from moving
in any of these important matters ; and for
aught I know, these checks are permtted, to
prevent our Government from extending her
jurisdiction over that Territory which God
designs to *ive to his Saints. Judge Douglas
says he would equally as soon go to that
country without an act of Congress as with ;
' and that in five years a noble State might
be formed; and then, if they would not
receive us into the Union, we would have a
government of our own.' He is decidedly of
the opinion that Congress will pass no act in
favour of any particular man going there ;
but he says, if any man will go, and.desns
that privilege, and has confidence in his own
ability to perform it, he already has the right,
and the sooner he is off the better for his
scheme.

It is the opinion here among politicians
that it will oe extremely difficult to have
any bill pass in* relation to the encourage-
ment of emigration to Oregon ; but much
more difficult to get a bill passed designat-
ing any particular man to go. But all coocor
in the opinion that we are authorized already.

in case of a removal to that country,
Nauvoo is the place of general rendezvous.
Our course from thence would be westward
through Iowa, bearing a little north until
we come to the Missouri river, leaving the
State of Missouri on the left, thence onward
till we come to the Platte, thence up the
north fork of the Platte to the mouth of
Sweetwater river in longitude 107°45 W„
and thence up said Sweetwater river to the
South Pass of the Rocky Mountains, about
eleven hundred miles from Nauvoo ; ani
from said South Pass in latitude 42°28 north
to the Umpqua and Klamet valleys is
Oregon, bordering on California, is abosi
600 miles, making the distance from Nauvot
to the best portions of Oregon 1,700 miles.

There is no government established there ;
and it is so near California that when a
government shall be established there, iL
may readily embrace that country likewise.
There is much barren countrv, rocka, sod
mountains, in Oregon; but the valleys are

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

519

rery fertile. I am persuaded that Congress
will pass no act in relation to that country,
from the fact that the resolution requesting
the President to give notice to the British
Government for the discontinuance of the
treaty of joint occupation of Oregon was
voted down with a rush ; and this notice
must be given before any action can be had,
unless Congress violates the treaty ; at least
so say the politicians here.

Judge Douglas has given me a map of
Oregon, and also a report on an exploration
of the country lying between the Missouri
river and the Rocky Mountains on the line
of the Kansas and great Platte rivers, by
Lieut. J. C. Fremont, of the corps of Topo-
graphical Engineers. On receiving it, I
expressed a wish that Mr. Smith could see
it. Judge D. says it is a public document,
and I will frank it to him. I accepted his
offer, and the book will be forthcoming to
him. The people are so eager for it here
that they have even stole it out of the
library. The author is Mr. Benton's son-
in-law. Judge D. borrowed it of Mr. B. I
was not to tell any one in this city where I
got it. The book is a most valuable docu-
ment to any one contemplating a journey to
Oregon, llie directions which I have given
may not be exactly correct, but the book will
tell correctly. Judge D. says he can direct
Mr. Smith to several gentlemen in Cali-
fornia who will be able to give him any
information on the state of affairs in that
country ; and when he returns to Illinois, he
will visit Mr. Smith. ,

Brother Pratt and myself drafted a bill
this morning, and handed it into the com-
mittee on the judiciary from the Senate,
asking an appropriation of two million dol-
lars for the relief of the sufferers among our
people in Missouri in 1836 — 9, to be depo-
sited in the hands ot the city council of
Nauvoo, and by them dealt out to the suf-
ferers in proportion to their loss. We intend
to teaze them until we either provoke them
or get them to do something for us. I have
learned this much— that if we want Congress
to do anything for us in drawing up our
memorial, we must not ask what is right in
the matter, but we must ask what kind of a
thinjr. will Congress pass P Will it suit the
politics of the majority P Will it be popular
or unpopular P For you might as well drive
a musket ball through a .cotton bag, or the
Gospel of Christ through the heart of a
priest, case-hardened by sectarianism, big-
otry, and superstition, or acamel through the
eye of a needle, as to drive anything through
Congress that will operate against the popu-
larity of politicians.

I shall probably leave here in a few days,
and brother Pratt will remain. I go to get
money to sustain ourselves with.

(TobiconHmud.)

I shall write again soon, and let you know
what restrictions, if any, are laid upon our
citizens in relation to passing through the
Indian Territories. 1 shall communicate
everything I think will benefit. In the
meantime, if the Council have any instruc-
tions to give us, we shall be happy to receive
them here or at Philadelphia.

John Boss is here ;. we intend to see him.
Tt is uncertain when Congress rises. It will
be a long pull, in my opinion. As ever, I
am yours sincerely, Orson Hyde.
Elder Piatt's best respects to the brethren."

Willard Richards was instructed to
answer the above letters, and Elders
Lyman Wight and Heber C. Kimball
were instructed to carry the answers.

Council adjourned at 5 p.m.

The steamer Maid of Iowa returned
from Bock ftiver with 400 bushels of
corn, and 200 bushels of wheat, which
had been purchased for the Temple. At
8 p.m, I went on board with Dr. Wil-
lard Richards, and visited Captain Dun v
Jones.

I insert a letter which I received
from Henry Clay, and my answer: —
Ashland, Nov. 15, 1843.

Dear Sir, —

I have received your letter in behalf of tha^— ^ ^
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints****
stating that you understand that I am acan^
didate for the Presidency, and inquiring
what will be my rule of action relative to you
as a people, should I be elected.

I am profoundly grateful for the nume-
rous ana strong expressions of the people in
my behalf as a candidate for President of
the United States ; but I do not so consider
myself. That must depend upon future
events and upon my sense of duty.

Should I be a candidate, I can enter into
ho engagements, make no promises, give no
pledges to any particular portion of the peo-
ple of the United States. If I ever enter
into that high office, I must go into it free
and unfettered, with no guarantees but such
as are to be drawn from my whole life,
character, and conduct.

It is not inconsistent with this declaration
to say that I have viewed with a lively
interest the progress of the Latter-day
Saints; that I have sympathized in their
sufferings under injustice, as it appeared to
me, which has been inflicted upon them;
and I think, in common with other religious
communities, they ought to enjoy the secu-
rity and protection of the Constitution and
the laws.

I am, with great respect, your friend and
obedient servant, H. Clat.

To Joseph Smith, Esq."

Digitized by

Google

620

EDITOBIAI*.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, August 17, 1861.

ORDINATIONS— CARE TO BE OBSERVED.

Ik visiting the Conferences of this Mission, and holding meetings with the
Priesthood and Saints, we have been struck with the disproportion there has ap-
peared to be, in point of numbers, between those who hold offices in the Priest-
hood and the members. To judge from the numbers who have met with us in
Priesthood meetings, there have been but few of the male members that have not
been ordained to some office in the Melchisedek or lesser Priesthood. As the
half-yearly statistical returns from the Conferences are now coming in, we have
been induced to examine those already received from some twenty Conferences,
and have become convinced that the disproportion is fully as great as we had any
reason to believe it would be. We do not find the same proportion of officers in
every Conference. In some, the officers are far more numerous than in others.
This, of course, depends to some extent upon the number of Branches there are in
the Conference — a large number of Branches requiring a larger number of Elders
or Priests to take charge of them. But we have taken an average of all the
returns we have received, and we find that the officers are in proportion to the
members as one to four, and that out of these officers the Eiders are in proportion
to the members as one to seven — that is every fourth person (men, women, and
children,) in the Church, holds some office in the Priesthood, and every seventh
person is an Elder ! After making this estimate, we cease to wonder at the num-
ber of officers we always have the privilege of seeing at the Priesthood meetings
we attend.

Though we know fliat it is the design of our Heavenly Father now, as it was
in past times, to raise up " a kingdom of priests and an holy nation," yet we do
not think it wisdom to complete the first part of the design here at present, by
making every one that enters into the Church, and is eligible on account of sex
to hold the Priesthood, a PrieBt either after the order of Melchisedek or Aaron.
Some portion of this can be done hereafter, and neither the individuals nor the
work of God suffer by the postponement. It has been too frequent a practice in
many Branches that have been raised up at a distance from the main body of the
Church in Zion to ordain large numbers to the Priesthood, regardless of the dic-
tates of the Spirit, the necessities of the ministry, or wants of the work, or the
eligibility of the person thus ordained. The mischievous effects of this unwise
and unwarrantable course has been apparent for years to those who have had to
labour among Branches of this description. A host of men have had authority
placed upon them, have been raised to positions that they, at least, have thought
to be so important as to demand respect and honour, and have been left without
employment in or opportunity pf magnifying their offices. Whatever other persona

Digitized by CjOOg IC

EDITORIAL. §21

may have thought of their ordination, they have supposed that they were a
power in the Church, and a power, too, that could not he slighted — a power that
should be consulted upon any and every occasion when they might suppose con*
sultation or counsel might be needed. The effect of these views has been that
when a presiding officer has been disposed to be energetic and to carry out mea-
sures that he would feel were for the good of the work, he has had to first convert
these officers to his way of thinking, and accommodate himself to the pace they
were accustomed to travelling, or he would likely find them hampering him in
every movement and acting as perpetual obstacles in his pathway. They are
Elders ! — important men in the kingdom ! —and as such have rights ; and they must
be honoured, arid their rights must be respected, or they will show that they can-
not be passed over with immunity. The thought of their greatness is ever present
with them ; they suffer under the burden of it, and so heavily does it weigh upon
them that for them to stop or cease to lend their aid would be, in their opinion,
the stoppage of the whole kingdom and a suspension of its progress 1 Of course
these remarks do not apply to all the Elders or other officers who have been
ordained. There are hundreds of humble, faithful men who are constantly striv-
ing to do all the good in their power, willing to labour in any position that may
be assigned them, and work heart and hand w ith their Presidents or fellow-
labourers. But we have met with a class of officers, in the course of our labours,
to whom these remarks do apply, and not unfrequently we have found that they
were men that had the least to do, and the least disposition to do, of any of their
brethren.

While upon this subject, the Presidency here wish to caution the presiding
Elders upon the subject of ordination. We wish you to be wise and exceedingly
careful in the bestowal of the authority of the holy Priesthood upon your fellow-
man. Do not let your own feelings of partiality, or the persuasions or representa-
tions of others, or your own spirit, lead you to ordain a man to any office what-
ever *, but if you ordain, do it because God dictates it through his Spirit, and do
it by his power ; and if this ordination be attended to in this manner, it will
prove a blessing to you and to the man receiving it, if he will be faithful. Do
not ordain men merely to place the Priesthood upon them through an itching de-
sire they may have to receive, or you to bestow, this authority. We wish it dis- «
tinctly understood that there shall be no person ordained to the Priesthood in
these lands unless there is a place for him to be actively engaged in the ministry.
This counsel we expect to be binding upon the Elders until they hear further
upon this subject. Other ordinations than these can be attended to when the
parties gather to Zion. If Teachers or Deacons be needed in any of the Branches,
and you have Elders or Priests who are not fully employed, use them, if they are
as suitable as they ought to be, in preference to ordaining more officers. Use the
material you have, as far as you can, before proceeding to create more. In Zion,
Elders and High Priests and Seventies do not consider itfn the least derogatory
to their dignity to act as Teachers or in any of the lesser offices. If an Elder,
acting in the office of Teacher, magnify his calling properly, he will not find that
he has a particle more power or experience than he needs.

If you wish your Branches and Conferences to be free from difficulty, and to
prosper, keep your officers well employed. There is a proverb in the world "that
an idle man's brain is the Devil's workshop." It is particularly applicable to an
idle Priesthood, or a Priesthood that will not be employed in the duties of their
calling. If they would confine themselves to total inaction, pursuing the even

Digitized by Google

522 C0BJLE8PONDBNCE.

tenour of their way as members of the Church merely, they would do very-
well; but this they rarely, if ever, do. Not finding anything useful to the work
to be employed in, they sit in judgment upon the conduct and actions of those
who are actively and usefully employed, criticise their labours, and form their
little cliques and parties to counteract and nullify their influence.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — Elder Needham, • in a letter
dated from Faversham, Kent, August 2, informs us " that eight have been bap-
tised in this Conference within the previous ten or twelve days, and that the
prospects are very favourable for many more."

Elder John Clark, in a letter from Sheffield, of same date, informs us " that the
Saints are rejoicing in- their holy religion, are striving to keep the commandments
of God, and use all diligence to help themselves to escape from Babylon." He
also says — " We have gQod meetings at our rooms and out-of-doors. • Many are
investigating our doctrines^ and seem much interested therein. Several have been
baptized since our last report, and there are others who are almost ready for
baptism."

Elder Gibson, in a letter dated Cheltenham, August 5, says — " Our future
prospects are very good. I never saw such a spirit of emigration as there is now
among the Saints. Almost everybody talks of getting away next spring, or trying
hard to do so ; and even the strangers who attend our meetings speak of emi-
gration before they speak of baptism. As for myself, no matter what subject I
begin to speak upon, it is sure to end in emigration."

News from the Emigration. — A telegram from Elder Gates to President
Young, of June 14 th, announces the departure from the Missouri river, for
Utah, of the first company (Capt. D. H. Cannon's) on the 29th of May, consist-
ing of 225 persons, with 57 waggons. We also learn that the second Church
train (Captain Eldredge's company) left Florence and encamped in tents on the
30th June; the third (Captain Horn's) on the 1st July; the fourth (Capt.
Murdoch's) and the fifth (Capt. J. W. Young's) were expected to encamp soon
after ; the sixth (a portion of the Monarch of the Sea's company) arrived at
Florence on the 1st July; and the seventh (the balance of the ship's company
divided at New York) were expected at Florence shortly.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

BIRMINGHAM DISTRICT.

Birmingham, July 31st, 1861.
Dear Brother Cannon, —

I am very anxious to receive a visit
from the Presidency of this Mission, or
as many of them as can conveniently
come and our funds will meet. I am
here alone, and may be either remiss in
consequence of a lack of zeal, or mis-
taken in my duties for want of expe-
rience ; so I want to have the Presidency
feel and judge the spirit of things here,
and know their true state as they really

exist, and not from my representation,
only ; for, as you are fully aware, it is
a failing of poor humanity that we
think very highly of ourselves and
everything we perform. '

It is true, I seek to carry out the
spirit.of our great mission as faithfully
as if the Presidency were here them-
selves administering in the power of
their calling, so Tar as I have wisdom
and ability ; yetl am far from infallible,
and may be mistaken sometimes ; and I
do not want my errors to go too long,
nor to do too much mischief before they

Digitized by Google

C0BBE8P0NDENCB.

523

fet corrected, lest the castigation might
e too severe for my rather sensitive
nature : whereas a little kind reproof,
given in time, for a little mistake, may
save the aforesaid consequences. I
want you to see and know everything,
without any cloaking or shuffling on
my part ; and where improvements are
needed, they may be suggested and
executed.

I am desirous, too, that the Saints
may see you, hear your instructions,
and enjoy your spirit. It will be a treat
to them, and do them much good, to be
visited ; and it will tend to confirm them
in our holy faith, as well as give them
proper confidence in my course, if it is
as it should be. I know that they will
enjoy themselves much ; indeed, they
already anticipate it since I have stated
the proposed Conference and visit of
' some of the Presidency.

I purpose, therefore, holding a Con-
ference on Sunday, the 11th instant, in
this town, if it will suit your minds and
prior engagements. If it will not, the
Sunday afterwards will do as well.

I have called Out an Elder to the
ministry for the Warwickshire Con-
ference, as brother Adams needs one
very much for an important district.
The Elder is an intelligent man, and has
experience. '

With love to brothers Lyman and
Eich, yourself, &c,

I am yours truly,

W. G. Mills.

WORCESTERSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Worcester, July 20, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Believing that you
ever feel interested in hearing of the
welfare of our Father's work, I find
pleasure in communicating with you at
this time touching the condition of the
work in the Worcestershire Qpnference.

It will afford 'you happiness, no doubt,
to know that in most parts of that Con-
ference the work is steadily on the in-
crease, and the feelings of the Saints
are on the improve. From what ex-
perience I have had with the Saints, I
feel certain that there is a decided im-
provement in them, which, I trust, will
continue until the wishes of God's
Priesthood are realized and the pur-
poses of God accomplished.

We have 'had the great pleasure of

baptizing twenty-nine during the past
half-year, and prospects for the future
are bright.

We have had some excellent out-door
meetings, and receive the best of atten-
tion ; and the seed sown, I believe, will
germinate and bring forth fruit to the
honour of God.

That God may continue to bless you
and Presidents Lyman and Bich, is my
prayer. I remain yours truly,

Wm. Thurqood.

liverpool conference.

Liverpool, July 30, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I feel desirous of
laying before you a brief report of the

E resent condition and prospects of the
liverpool Conference, ana am very
thankful before the Lord that it is of an
encouraging character. Having had
charge of the Conference since the close
of March, 1800, and being intimately
acquainted with the Saints by observa-
tion and communion, I can say that I
have never known so good a feeling
among the Saints generally as there
exists at the present time ; neither at
any time, since I became acquainted
with the' Conference, have prospects
been so good as they are^ now for an
increase in our numbers.

The Priesthood are more or less
actively engaged in out-door preaching,
while attentive and increasing congre-
gations testify to an increased interest
growing in the minds of the people
relative to the great Latter-day Wore.

President Kay has lately been visiting
among the Branches, and his visits have,
with the blessing of God, been the
means of producing an increased desire
on the part of the Priesthood and Saints
to accomplish something more than
heretofore towards rolling on the work
of God and saving themselves therein.

At Haydock some sixteen miles
from here, we held a camp meeting on
Sunday, July 7th, where a large
concourse of people, both Saints
and strangers, attended and listened
attentively to the words of life spoken
by the Elders who addressed them. The
sun poured his strong beams down upon
us as we stood around on the green
sward, and the upturned faces of the
listeners betokened the interest they
felt in the truths presented before them*

Digitized by CjOOQ IC

524

COBRESPfHDENCB.

After the close of the services, several
declared their intention of being united
with the Church, and demands have
been made repeatedly since, from other
localities, for similar meetings, which
we will attend to as speedily as
possible.

Through a variety of reasons, our
baptisms were not so numerous during
the first half of the year as we could
have wished; hut brightening prospects
inspire faith that the close of the year
will see a rich increase. Having no
Travelling Elder in the Conference, I
am happy to say that the local Priest-
hood have evinced a willingness to
second every effort made to do good,
which has increased my love and esteem
for them, while the brethren labouring
in the Office have kindly assisted with
their services through the Branches,
when desired.

Financially the Conference is in an
improving condition, though in the
matter of Tithing I cannot report so
favourably as I could desire. Some of
the Saints who used to pay Tithing
paid it under a feeling of compulsion,
and consequently were never in a posi-
tion to realize the blessings obtainable
through a willing observance of that
law. Such we are endeavouring to
instruct and enlighten with regard to
their own best interests, and hope well of
them for the future. Others, again, have
evinced a carelessness with regard to
the principle which does not accord
well with their professed faith in it;
but these in general express a determi-
nation to secure by their works the
blessings which in times past they
enjoyed, but have lacked since they
ceased to strictly observe the law of
Tithing. Still there is an improvement
in that respect, compared with the past ;
but that improvement is confined almost
exclusively to the Liverpool Branch,
where, through the ministrations of
yourself and Presidents Lyman and
Itich, when in Liverpool, and the wise
counsels of President Kay, an increase
of faith and good works has been
manifested, which is soul- cheering in-
deed.

On Sunday last, the meetings were
much blessed with the company of the
Presidency and the Elders recently
arrived from Zion. Through the day
much joy was felt in listening to the

testimonies of the brethren and the
teachings of yourself and President
Rich ; and at the close of the powerful
discourse delivered by President Lyman
in the evening, I conversed with
several individuals who had never
attended a meeting of the Saints before,
and who expressed themselves very
much pleased, and stated their intention
of returning and investigating further
concerning the principles of truth.

Such is a brief report of this Con-
ference at the present time ; and for
myself I can truly say that I never felt
better in the work of God, nor have I
ever enjoyed my labours in the ministry
so much as I have done since the com-
mencement of the present year.

I remain, dear brother, yours obedi-
ently in the truth,

E. L. Sloan.

WALES.
Merthyr Tydvil, Aug. 6, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — Things seem
to be on the move in the Eastern Gla-
morgan Conference at the present. The
Elders seem to have a new hold upon
the work. They are striving to preach
the Gospel with zeal, and as it were
with renewed vigour ; and I have felt
that they have the Spirit of the Lord
with them. The people are stirring up
to search for themselves. Great congre-
gations gather to hear the word of God
preached. There have been about 26
baptized this month, and there are good
prospects here and there of baptizing;
more. We have camp meetings through
the Conference, and these meetings
have commenced to kindle the fuel, and
it begins to blaze.

May the Lord bless us with his Spirit,
to enable us to go forward in the dis-
charge of our duties, and to fulfil the
same with an eye single to his honour
and glory !

I remain your brother in the Gospel,
Thomas W. Rbes.

SWISS AND ITALIAN MISSION.

Basle, July 24, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since my last, con-
taining the report of these Missions, I
have been on a tour to the Durlaoh
Branch, 168 miles from this place.
Elder Frederick Gass is 'doing a good

• Digitized by Google

COERBSPONDBNCE.

work in that vicinity. Daring my visit
we held three meetings, ordained three
Priests, baptized four persons, and orga-
nized a Branch in Carlsrue, the capital
of the Duchy of Baden.

I did not feel to ordain new members
Elders, bat let them commence and
work their way up, and prove them-
selves worthy of the .Priesthood, and
show their willingness to be engaged in
the ministry, and learn to follow counsel
themselves, that they may be able to give
counsel to others. Two of the Priests I
placed to preside over the two Branches,
and the third is on a mission to Stutt-
gardt, the capital town of the kingdom of
W urtemburg, as he was born in that
place and has many relatives there,
to whom he has written and sent pamph-
lets. He has also received an invitation to
go and pay them a visit and tell them of
the good that he has got hold of ; so we
have hopes of being able soon to report
a Branch in that place. The Baden
Conference has been commenced by
Elder Gass, and he has a good tact ,to
keep all in good order, being very strict
himself in following counsel. I placed
him as President of that section of
country, with directions to report every
week. By letter received from him yes-
terday, all was going on well, though a
great deal of care has to be used to keep
everything in a shape that will not come
in contact with the laws of the land,
and to avoid getting too many people
together so as to create so much'
excitement.

I am confident that, with care and the
right teaching, a start will be made in
Germany that will bring many good
men and women into the kingdom of
God. I should have remained in that
vicinity for some time longer, but found
that the police were searching after those
who were teaching such strange doc-
trines and baptizing the people.

My instructions up to the present to
the Elders and Saints have been to live
up to the laws of the land ; for by so
doing they would have nothing to fear,
but could face whatever might come,
knowing that they had done naught but
their duty ; and when people ask what
they believe, they have a right to speak
fearlessly in a private capacity.

In Switzerland, the work is still pro-
gressing. I have sought to have all
understand that they should be well

525

posted in what they are about, and
teach by the Spirit, of the Almighty
instead of by their learning, and to have
the Priesthood work with united hearts,
trusting in the Lord for all that is neces-
sary to enable them to accomplish the
work placed upon them. With the
united efforts or Elders Ballif and Ger-
ber, I feel that the Mission has improved
considerably.

With prayers for the prosperity of all,
and kind love, Ac,

Yours faithfully,

John L. Smith.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Aalborg, July 24, 1801.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother,— I think a few lines
from here will be welcome. Generally
speaking, there is only good and cheering
news to communicate, with the exception
of an increasing lack of employment
and a corresponding increase of poverty,
— which, however, is nothing new, as
poverty has been gradually gaining
ground in this section since the money
crisis of 1857.

The country people, who are almost
the only ones wno receive the Gospel
here, furnish themselves with food and
clothing, with an average expenditure
of about two pence daily for each indi-
vidual ; and perhaps that is setting the
amount too high, for the fact is their food
consists of black bread, vegetables, and
a little pork or fish. Some own a cow
or two ; many spin and weave their own
clothing. Their houses are composed
of clay supported by a framework of
timber, with a thatched roof and some
thatch work on the walls to preserve the
clay from the action of the weather,
clay or stone floors, and a loft over
head.

Their poverty, as a general thing, is
not the result of the oppression of
employers, but rather their own unde-
veloped ability to render life agreeable,
itself the consequence of the circum-
stances that surround them. There are
a few farmers among us who have
advanced a little higher in the scale of
improvement, but their numbers are
few. These generally evince a cheerful
readiness to extend a helping hand to
the poor Saints; and should you see
them on their way home to the Moon-

Digitized by

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

ou will observe that in temporal
they have all arrived at about
tie point — namely, equally rich
or equally poor. A9 a general thing,
though poor, they are contented, and
willingly divide their scanty means,
being kind, warm-hearted, devoted,
obedient, and faithful ; and the Elders
of Israel can find among them an ample
field for the exercise of their feelings of
fatherly kindness and sympathy. Sew
that the harvest has begun, all hands
are busily engaged " from early morn
till dewy eve," and we very seldom can

father them to meeting on week-days ;
ut on Sundays they come from every
quarter to the place of meeting — some-
times a distance of ten or fifteen miles,
" in rain or shine." Many times, when
I consider the people's poverty and their
weary toil during the six week-days, I
have thought they were worthy of better
things, and I have been astonished to
see them so glad and happy and full of
good works. We have no railroads or
other extraordinary means of convey-
ance ; so we go on foot. I am convinced
that all the Saints who can, do pay their
Tithing, and respond with ungrudging
willingness to every requirement.

We have some opposition and perse-
cution from priests and rich men, but
generally the country and village popu-
lation are very liberal-minded.

We have the privilege of preaching
wherever we come, and the people
willingly hear us. When the autumn
comes, we shall have opportunity of
preaching every day to attentive hearers.

This District numbers about 1,040 mem-
bers : 170 souls emigrated from here last
spring, and there have been 500 souls
added by baptism during the past year.
The prospect is very good for the future,
and I trust the Lord will bless our
labours. A considerable number are
now ready to emigrate ; and should the
conditions be as favourable next year
as they have been this, I hope wo can
start from 3 to 400 souls from this
District. The house and hall rent for
this District does not amount to more
than £14 per annum.

We hold our Conference and District
meetings in private houses, barns, and
out-buudings around in the country.
Every fortnight we distribute about
500 numbers of the Scandinavian Stferne,
besides many tracts and books from the
office at Copenhagen. They are a blessing
to the people and a great help towards
the advancement of the Mission, though
for the lack of means their distribution
has slackened a little. This is considered
a good vear by the farmers, which fact
has helped many to sell their little
property, and with the means they hope
next year to get as far as Florence on
their homeward journey. Everywhere
among the Saints the next year's emi-
gration is almost their only thought :
this circumscribes their prayers, their
anxieties, and* their exertions* They
think it high time to go home.
Yours devotedly,

C. A. Madsen.

(Translated by Elder Jesse N. Smith. J

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

France. — Paris, it seems, is rapidly
becoming a centre of conspiracy against the
tranquility of Italy, witn as large and
, active a committee as that which is presided
over by King Francis and Cardinal Antonelli
at Rome. The Neapolitan noble families
who, since the flight of Francis II., have
lived in the French capital, have identified
themselves with Legitimist and Orleanist

Sarties ; and their great object is to influence
le Emperor Napoleon to permit the French
flag to defedd wnat is styled " the royal-
brigand -band-government of Francis II. at
Rome." For this purpose certain Neapolitan
ladies are employed in political intriguing
duties at the Court.

Bohemia. — On the evening of Aug. 1st,
the Jewish quarter in the city of Prague was
the scene of fresh disturbances and mobbiAgs.
The synagogue and some houses were da-
maged, and much property was carried off by
the mob. Forty-five persons were arrested.

Denmark. — On the evening of the 30 th ult.
the inhabitants of Copenhagen gave a grand
banquet in the neighbouring forest to
500 persons who lately arrived from Schles-
wig. Two thousand persons sat down to
dinner. The King placed his hunting castle
at the disposal of the guests. Several
Schleswigians made speeches in favour of
the rights of Denmark dver Schleswig, which
were received with great cheering.

Digitized by

Google

VAKrETUCS.

527

Turkey. — Accounts from Bucharest, of-
recent date, speak of great discontent pre-
vailing there, and of the probability of an
early insurrection against Prince Couza,
towards whom the commercial classes and
' a majority of the officers of the army are
reported to be very much disaffected.

America. — The news from the United
States is most important. A great battle
has been fought, and the South has proved
victorious in the opening trial of arms. On
the morning of the 21st of July, the whole
of the "grand army," commanded by
M*Dowe*ll, advanced on the Confederate
batteries at Bull's Run, and after nine
hours' fighting they succeeded in capturing
three Confederate batteries ; but this suc-
cess **s not maintained. The Confederate
army, having been reinforced, attacked the
Federals with great vigour, and drove them
in disorder from the ground. At this junc-
ture, one of those panics with which newly-
levied troops are frequently smitten, when
they%re thrown into disorder by an enemy,
appears to have seized on the Federals ; a
complete route resulted, and the "grand
army" retreated in great confusion towards
Washington. At Centrevilleu General
M'Dowell endeavoured to rally his broken
battalions ; but the disorder was so great
that the effort was futile. At Fairfax a
second attempt was made to bring the panic-
stricken Unionists to a stand, but they

- appear to have unheeded the appeals of the
General, and continued their retreat to
Alexandria, where safe quarters were found.
We cannot estimate the loss in this battle
from the scattered and hurried reports
despatched from Washington to this country
a few hours after the disordered legions of
the North had rushed into Alexandria.
These statements give the Federal loss at
from 500 to 2,000 men, and fix the number
of Confederates killed at 3,000 or 4,000
men. But the loss was probably much
heavier on the Federal side than is stated.
A battle raging "for nine hours," and
resulting in a complete retreat, which
caused the road from Centreville to Alex-
andria to be " strewed with men wounded
and fallen from exhaustion," must have been
attended with a great loss of life, as a
retreating army, when in disorder, often
loses nearly all its power of self-defence ;
and Beauregard, the Confederate General,
pursued the Federals, we learn, as far as
Fairfax, which is within a short distance of
Alexandria. The Confederate Congress had
assembled at Richmon dandPresident Davis,
in his opening message, congratulated the
States on having joined the Confederation.
He criticised the policy of General Lincoln,
and intimated that other States were about
to join the Confederation. He demanded an
increase of the military forces.

VARIETIES.

An unsocial old Snarl says that love is a combination of diseases — an affection of the
heart and an Inflammation of the brain.

" Nature's Order Reversed. — There are more men than women born into the world ;
yet in England alone there are at this moment upwards of half *a-million more women
than men. The mere statement of this fact is the revelation of infinite and most terrible
tragedies. Woman's holiest, truest vocation is that of wife and mother. She is sinned
against or sinning when this vocation is not fulfilled. In all healthy nations marriages
have been early and universal. The indestructible tenacity and vitality of the Jewish
race may be ascribed to the circumstance that the. Jews loathe celibacy as guilt and
abomination, and marry when exceedingly young. Earth is wide enough ; not above a
tenth part of it is yet cultivated, and even for that tenth part thorough cultivation is far
from existing. Malthusianism is a crotchet as idiotic as it is impious. There is room at
the vast banquet for all the children of men. If, then, a woman cannot accomplish her
highest and holiest destiny in England— that of being at the head of a household— she
should be sent to where she can accomplish it. If we in the three kingdoms have seven
or eight hundred thousand women too many, the British colonies have seven or eight
hundred thousand women too few. The colonies are panting and clamouring for what
we have in abundance. Here women are a curse and an encumbrance to themselves and
toothers. In the colonies they would be happy and the diffusers of happiness. We are
not indifferent to the loftiest, most sacred, religious, and moral aspects of society. But
religion and morality cannot be promoted at the expense of social needs. Whatever
diviner food there may be, daily bread is indispensable. How huge in England is the
sum of useless misery 1 From its boundless wealth England ought not to tolerate within
its borders one single anguish which human means could relieve. It cannot be right that
the rich should be so very rich and the poor so very poor, and that in the abyss between
them there should be the erucifixion and the cry of intolerable woe. We must keep
hammeVing into the dull brain of public opinion the grim and gloomy truth that m
England the order of nature is reversed, and that we see army after army of the

Digitized by

b&> ^ PORTBY. ADDRESSES. MATH. INFORMATION.

• *

miserable marching past us, all of whom are women. If each of tbes^sttflfering
could give her his* ory, would public, omnion stall remain unmoved? If a grajfti cut*
fessional were erected, and each breaking heart could paft with blood and tears fhe
picture of its trials, its temptations, and its tortures, woul£ public opinion still listen t»
social science and to the catalogue of its contemptible palliatives ? The $vil will increase
with frightful rapidity if it is not with a gigantic rapidity mastered. Let us wait for
another census, and we shall be, a nation of women altogether. It would be better to sell
our women for the harems, as the Circassians do, than to pine and perish* or to qell them-
selves. Of course it is very consoling to know that we are a yesy free people ; so very
free that we permit myriads of fair and gifted beings to sink info the gqsve, or offer theis,
when dying, a few tracts on social science to comfort them!* If we are so besotted, cannot
the colonies themselves do something P If Parliament is too busy with its party
squabbles — if its chief occupation is to be for ever the noisy contest whether .-©no fmcAsm
which does nothing is to succeed another faction which has never dtae anything, ought
not Colonial Parliaments to show a little more sense and activity P ^s tolomaTnyney
can be better spent than that which conveys sweet English maijens ttousanils to 4to
antipodes. Let benevolent English women, on whom fortune hafe smiled, help* Itaqfi-
volent Englishwomen, much do ye give, in fruitless alms ; much do ye* spend im footijk
luxuries. Abridge a few of the alms and of (he luxuries, and do a mighfy deed of chjurfy
for all. Boundlessly blessed will that charity be." — Orr's Kentish Journal.

— ^ ; f

POETRY.

; GOD IN ALL HIS WORKS.
. u Far of him, and through Aim, and to him are oBtAinf*"— (Ron. xL *&)

Had we no fag* of inspiration given
TeteJLtby name, Almighty God of heaven,
in Nature's charm* vre see enough of thee
To know thee, infinite, eternal Betty !
The rambling brook, the river's rolling tide,
The valley's depths, the mountain's rooky side,
The fruitful bower, the barren wilderness,
All, ail declare thee, God of holiness !
Thy wisdom glistens from each fragrant flower;
Upon the rocks we read thy name of power ;
And Sol, enthroned in majesty above,
Reflects the beams of thy undying love.
Dublin.

The spreading fields of waria» —Mug com.
The very soil, the sout&w wealth unborn,
Claim, Lord, for thee and thy ezhaasUess grace

The adoration of the human race.'
And when we soar on wings of new surprise*
Am id the starry venders of the aides,
Oh, there; ttryieeepdnts, o'er eternity
Tell us our littleness and thy immensity.
Thus, Lord, Creator, in tjhy works divine.
As nature's centre, thy perfections shine :
There may we see thy universal law,
Which speaks of thee In soul* impressive awe.

Ribnanst Smth.

Addrkssks.— William Gibson, )

WiUard G. Smith, > 37,
George W. Grant, )

St George's Place, Cheltenham.

Dibb— At his residence in Great Salt Lake City, on the 5th of May, Thomas Seddin. formerly of Woraley,
Lancashire, England, in consequence of injuries received from falling off a horse whilst transacting business
at American Fork, U. T. Also, on the 13th of June, a few hours after childbirth, lira. Sarah Jane 9rf
Eddington, in the fist year of her age. She was a native of Portsmouth, England.

Invorm ati os is wanted by David George concerning the whereabouts of Frauds and Prudence Tarter, in
England or Wales. Any person able to give such information will o bli g e by communicating the same to
.David George, 24, ShutUeworth Street, Pendleton, Manchester. k

CONTENTS.

Remarks by Presidents Cannon and Lyman, Letter from President John L. Smith.— Scandi-

made at Loudon Conference 513 navian Mission: Letter from Elder Madsea

History of Joseph Smith 518 Summary of News and Passing Events............^

Editorial— Ordmations— Care to be Observed.— Varieties ..........

Abstract ot News from the Conferences.— Pootrv.— " Ood in all His Works.".....,..

News from the Emigration 520 Addresses

Correspondence— England : Letters from Elders Death „ 1.

MUls, Thurgood, and Sloan.— Wales: Letter * Information Wanted ~

from Elder Rees.— Swiss and Italiau Mission :

*9*

— 5!

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, it, ISLINGTON.
LONDON t

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 80, .FLORENCE STREET, CROffc

ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. • .jjf

Digitized by

Qopgle

THE LATTER^t SAINTS' . .

MILLENNIAL STAK.

A miee thaU eowu men to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controvert* with the nmHont : hewfU
plead wUh aUjUeh; he will give them that' owe wicked to the eword\ eaUh the 'Lord."— Juiklul,

No. 85, VoL XZHI. . • Saturday, August 31, 1861.

Price One Fenny.

RESTORATION OP THE GOSPEL.

BY ELDER THOMAS ORAWLEY. '

" And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the ererlasting Gospel to preach onto them
tlpt dwell in the earth, and to every nation, and kingdom, and tongue, and people."— Johx. .

The above quotation is altogether
overlooked by the great majority of the
Christian world, and the few who pay
any attention.to it do not understand its
meaning. Now this arises from the
total ignorance which exists in relation
to the " inspired Volume." Too much
have they relied upon the interpolations
of uninspired commentators, rather than
judge for themselves by the light of
the Holy Spirit, which " enlighteneth"
• every man tnat oometh into the world."
If the Scriptures cannot be under-
stood but by the learned and licensed
few, then might they as well have been
written in some unknown language,
which none but the " learned*' could in-
terpret ; for in both cases we should be but
depending upon their 'interpretations.
But, thank the Lord, it is not so. The
%isdom of the world is foolishness in
the eyes of the Almighty. ,No man, by
his wisdom or learning, can find out
God, or understand the .truths of that
holy religion which comet!} down from
above* tor the salvation of mankind.
The learned and the unlearned are alike
this* matter, for no maw can

understand the things ot God but by ( ^-its magnificent palaces, towers, and

the Spirit of God. WB? ? Because the
Holy Sprntos the key that unlocks tlto
door dr mystery and brings, to view the

principles of truth through which the*
Father and the Son are known — whom
to know is life eternal: * Through this
means the Saints of old became heirs
unto salvation. They in their child-like
simplicity bowed to the mandates of
heaven's King, which were the princi-
ples of truth, and continued to - live
thereby by day and by night, and the
Spirit of God rested and abided with
them in rich effusion, until they became
prepared to hold personal interviews
with angels and with God himself, who
unlocked the door of the unseen world
and showed them its magnificence and
glory. And Isaiah, Jeremiah, and others
could, by the same Spirit of revelation,
foretell the coming of the Messiah, and
describe most minutely the events of .
his memorable life* from his birth at
Bethlehem to his crucifixion \ipon
Mount Calvary, and by w^iich the Hon
of God could tell of his owk and the
nature of his own death, resurrection;
and ascension. And David, # al$o, the
sweet singer of Israel, by "the same
Spirit, could ilescribe the beauty and
grandeur of tne Latter-day Zion, with •

bulwarks; and by. the same Spirit all
the Prophets could foretell of the gather-
ing thousands thronging the way to •

Digitized tfy Google

556

RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL.

Zion, in the tops of the mountains, that
they might 44 hear of his ways and walk
in his paths." Yea, time would fail for
me to enumerate all the many truths
which the Father has revealed to his
Saints by his Spirit, and through the me-
dium of dreams and visions, and by per-
sonal interviews with the heavenly host.

But suffice it to say that our Father
educated our brethren and sisters of
former days in this way, and the places
of their education have been many as
they have been various. Of these we
may mention the lion's den, the fiery
furnace, the mountain heights, the
humble cottage, and the gorgeous
kingly mansions. These have all been
the seminaries which the God of
heaven selected to educate his children,
without the aid of old musty records or
the opinions of the fathers.

And those whom he chose to accom-
plish bis purposes, and through whom
he proposed to reveal his will to the
world, were the " poor among men" —
those whose minds were free from cor-
ruption, upon which he could impress
the living truths of eternity. To accom-
plish this, he did not seek for, or sound
his voice in the ears of men of high
worldly repute ; but he did speak, and
his voice was heard by the poor and
humble peasant; and his angels did
visit, and their voices were heard within
the humble dwelling, arousing the sons
of God to' go forth among the slumber-
ing nations, there to lift up their
untutored voices, and call upon kings,
princes, and statesmen — yea, all man-
kind of all classes and climes — to repent
of their sins and obey the 44 word of the
Lord." And the words they uttered
were the words of the Lord, and the Lord
did acknowledge their administrations.
Kings were anointed and placed to rule
by them; and others, by paying no
attention to, or altogether disobeying,
the message which the Lord had sent,
had their kingdoms taken from them.
In fine, whoever received them received
Him that sent them, but he that rejected
them rejected Him that sent them also.
Hence, we read of the kingdom of Saul
departing from him, and a poor shepherd
boy being placed upon the throne ; and
of the powerful nation of the Jews being
broken up, and its subjects scattered,
for rejecting the servants of God and
the message they bore.

Those in whom the Spirit of truth ha*
shed its enlightening rays can under-
stand the Scriptures of divine truth—
not only that portion denominated the
Holy Bible," written by Moses, Isaiah,
, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Matthew, Mark,
Luke, John, &c, but that portion called
the 44 Book of Mormon," written or
engraved by Nephi, Alma, Mormon,
Moroni, &c, and translated by the gift
and power of God by Joseph Smith ; or
the revelations of J esus Christ contained
in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants,
revealed to Joseph Smith and others;
and the writings of Joseph, Brigham,
Heber, Orson, Parley, &c. Sbc. ; for they
44 wrote and spoke as they were moved
upon by the Holy Ghost." All this is
Scripture, 44 given by the inspiration of
God, and is profitable for doctrine, for
reproof, for correction, for instruction
in righteousness, that the man of God
may be perfect, throughly furnished
unto all good works." All this is reve-
lation — words of life and salvation—
which the Saints of God should cherish
more than the glittering eold. The
quotation at the heading of this article
is therefore no mystery to them ; and
those who perchance may not understand
it, but who will studiously examine it,
will, I feel assured, finally come to a just
conclusion, inasmuch as the Spirit of
truth is their guide.

John writes — 44 1 saw another angel
fly through the midst of heaven, having
the everlasting Gospel to preach unto
them that dwell on the earth, and to
every nation, and kingdom, and tongue,
and people, saying with a loud voice,
Fear God and give glory to him, for the
hour of bis judgment is come; and
worship him that made the heavens,
and earth, and the sea, and the fountains
of waters." (Rev. xiv., 6, 7.) It is
evident from this that John, while on
the isle called Patmos, saw a holy
angel descending to earth, with nothing
less than the everlasting Gospel to
preaeh to the inhabitants thereof. It
must be evident, however, that the angel
was not sent to preach the Gospel Mmielf
to every nation, kindred, tongue, and
people (man's legitimate work); for this
itself would take him hundreds of years.
And again, could the angel administer
in all the ordinances, such as baptism
by immersion, and scores of others
equally as important, which must be

BESTOBATION OP THE GOSPEL.

567

observed by the candidates for salva-
tion before they can be "throughly fur-
nished unto all good works " ? No : this
would be just as absurd. And if the
everlasting Gospel has to be preached
only, thereby convincing mankind of
the necessity of attending to the ordi-
nances of the Gospel, (which the preach-
ing of the ancient Gospel would do,) then
it would fill the world with greater
misery than exists at the present time ;
for they would be convinced of the
necessity of the ordinances of salvation,
without having the means by which
they could be attended to. A man may
be comparatively happy if he does not
know of the danger which surrounds
him. But be convinced thereof, and
at the same time be quite convinced
that there is no means of escape, would
create insanity. Such would be the
condition of mankind. Question : " What
are we, then, to understand from the
above statement P" Answer: "We are
to understand that the angel had the
everlasting Gospel to preach or reveal
to some one, and that he would be called
of God as was Aaron — viz., by revela-
tion ; and, like him, be clothed with the
« holy Priesthood, which is authority from
God ; and he would be sent forth to tell
of the wonders of the risen and exalted
Redeemer, and preach the Gospel to a
dark and benighted world." Question :
*• And would it not be quite as impos-
sible for him to preach the Gospel to
all the world as for the angel to do it P"
Answer : " Granted.' But we find him
clothed with and possessing the power
of the Priesthood ; and what he had he
could impart to others. When the Son
of God commenced to set up his kingdom,
he was the only one on the Eastern
continent possessing the Melchizedec
Priesthood; and, as he could not preach
the Gospel himself to 4 every creature,'
he called forth the poor fishermen and
others, to whom he gave power, even
the holy Priesthood that he held him-
self, and made them Apostles, Seventies,
and Elders ; and thus by them was the
Gospel preached to all upon the Eastern
continent. And God designed that it
should be so with the subject in ques-
tion. The same Priesthood tvould be
conferred upon others, and thus there
would be thousands of messengers of
life and salvation sent to preach ^the
Ctospel to every creature in every nation,,

with power not only to preach the
Gospel and convince the judgment, but
to take them by the hand like kind and
tender fathers, (after they had sincerely
repented of their sins and humbled
themselves before the Lord,) and lead
them into the water, and there baptize
them for the remission of their sins ;
then initiate them into the Church
and fold of Christ by laying hands
upon their headB for the reception of
the Holy Ghost. And then, (like the
Apostles of old,) after they had laid a
foundation of faith towards God, repent-
ance of sins, and baptism by immersion
for the remission thereof, and received the
gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on
of hands, they would by the blessing of
God lead them on unto perfection. Then
they would know the Father and the
Son, and consequently would possess
within themselves eternal life."

Perhaps the reader may next in-
quire—" Did not this event transpire at
the time when John saw the angel fly
through the midst of heaven P" To this
I answer, " No." And in proof of this
I shall quote the first and second verses
of the first chapter of Revelations, which
say — " The revelations of Jesus Christ;
which God gave unto him to show unto
his servants things which must shortly
come to pass. And he sent and signi-
fied it by his angel unto his servant
John, who bore record of the word of
God, and of the testimony of Jesus
Christ, and of all things which he saw."
From this we gather that the whole
book is a series of " revelations of
Jesus Christ," and that " God gave them
unto him to show unto his servants
things whichmust shortly come to pass ;"
and that " he sent and signified it by
sending his angel unto his servant John,
who bore record of the word of God and
of the testimony of Jesus Christ." This
is a key not only to the verse at the
heading of this article, but to the whole
Book of Revelations, and the student
thereof should bear this in mind that
John understood it to be the future
scenerv of the world rolling before him
in all its grandeur. And, in order that
the servants of Bod might know it, a
holy angel was sent unto him, who
commanded him to " write the vision"
and make it plain.

If all, when reading this " remarkable
book," would look upon it in this light,

558

RESTORATION OF THE GOSPEL.

with the desire to understand the future,
and at the same time prepare them-
selves to obey the " everlasting Gospel"
of which it speaks — the time when
thrones and empires are crumbling to
dust — when the whole face of nature is
changing — when the angels will come
forth and pour out their vials of wrath
upon the inhabitants of the earth,
creating lamentations and woe such as
the heart of man has never imagined,
would be ready to stand in their place
in the last days. We have demonstrated
that an angel would come with the
Gospel. Let us next inquire if the
angel has made his appearance. This,
perhaps, may appear to some to be a
very difficult question to answer. But
does it appear at all likely that such
an important event would take place
without anyone knowing anything about
it ? Would not the historian write it
in blazing characters, and the writer
refer to it in his soul-stirring orations ?
The answer is obvious. But when we
consult the mouldy records of the past,
they give no account of it. We can read
of poets who have filled the world with
their fame, and of noble and wise states-
men who have controlled the millions
by the power of their eloquence, but in
all their productions nothing has been
said upon this subject: all, all is as
silent as the grave. Next, if we inquire
of the Mother Church, the Pope of which
professes to hold the keys of Peter,
(which if true would altogether obviate
the necessity of an angel coming with
the Gospel,) he will tell you that
no angel has appeared unto him or to
any of his predecessors. And if you
dared to reason with him upon the sub-
ject, he would in all probability order
that you be silenced in death. And if
we next inauire of all her daughters,
they will tell you that this (or any other
age since the Apostles fell asleep) is not
an age of revelation — that angels will
not come and hold converse with men
now as in the " dark ages." And this
has been the cry of all the Protestant
Beformers from Luther until the Re-
formers of yesterday. And although
they have been the means, in a great
measure, of shaking off the despotic
mother of Popery, and have taught
many precious truths, yet they, like
their aged and decrepit mother, are in
total ignorance upon this subject.

Therefore from them we can gather
no satisfaction — only that the angel has
not been to any of them. And as they
are the only churches of any " note,"
or in anywise " respectable" in the world,
we may not think, perhaps, of pushing
our inquiry any further.

But what do we hear in this our day
from the land " shadowing with wings" P
A cry both strange and new to this
generation, which has made a greater
stir in the world than any other since
the saying went abroad — "Behold he
is not here, but is risen." All seem to be
amazed. But why this amazement?
Is it because an illiterate youth has
testified that the angel which John saw
descending to earth has come, and that
the Gospel which the celestial messenger
had to reveal was revealed to him?
Why be thus amazed?, when it has been
foretold upwards of one thousand eight
hundred years ago P Had the world of
mankind been looking for and expecting
the coming of the angel, it would not
have created so much amazement. But,
instead of this, they have been sleeping
under the darkness of error for ages,
and nothing less than a voice from the
heavens could awaken them from their
deathly slumber. The whole world
have been wandering after and serving
other gods — gods of wood, stone, beasts
of prey, the sun, moon, and other hea-
venly bodies ; and others in still more
" Christian" or "civilized" nations wor-
ship " a god without body, parts, or
passions," which is just as powerless as
those the "heathens" worship. Can
we wonder, then, when all the world
have returned to idolatry, that he who
is a "jealous God" should send a holy
angel to call upon the world to " wor-
ship him that made the heavens, the
earth, the sea, and the fountains of
waters." This God the ancient Saints
worshipped, and is the only God worthy
of the worship and adoration of intelli-
gent beings.

After Joseph had received the Gospel
from the heavenly messenger, and while
he was searching over its sacred pages,
his soul was filled with heavenly light.
He, with Oliver Oowdery, retired from
the busy scenes of the world into a
secret place, and bowed themselves in
humble prayer. "And while we were
thus employed (says Joseph,) praying
and calling upon the Lord, a me

Digitized by VJ\

HISTOBY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

559

from heaven descended in a cloud of
light, and having laid his hands upon
us, he ordained us, saying unto us —
44 Upon you, my fellow-servants, in the
name of Messiah, I confer the Priesthood
which holds the keys of the ministering
of angels, and of the Gospel of repent-
ance, and of baptism by immersion for
the remission of sins; and this shall
never be taken again from the earth
until the sons of Levi do offer again an
offering unto the Lord in righteousness. "
He said this Aaronic Priesthood had not
the power of laying; on of hands for the
gift of the Holy Ghost, but that this
should be conferred on us hereafter;
and he commanded us to go and be bap-
tized, and gave us directions that I
should baptize Oliver Cowdery, and
afterwards that he should baptize me."
(" Compendium," page 123.) This is
gratifying in the extreme. Here we
learn that not only the Gospel is re-
stored, but the Priesthood of Aaron,
giving them authority to baptize by
immersion for the remission oi sins all
who would come unto them. This
Priesthood (the Aaronic) is but a branch
of the greater or Melchizedec Priest-
hood ; hence it gave them no power to
lay on hands for the reception of the
Holy Ghost. But they T«ceived a pro-
mise that this should afterwards be
conferred upon them. Hence we read
that he (Joseph Smith) " continued to
receive visions, revelations, and the
ministering of angels ; by whom he was
at length ordained to the Apostleship or

High Priesthood after the* order of Mel-
chizedek, to hold the keys of the king-
dom of God, the dispensation ( of the
fulness of times." (See " Key to Theo-
logy," page 82 J also "History of
Joseph Smith.") 1

Here we find, then, that all the Priest-
hood that God ever conferred upon man
was conferred upon our great and
beloved Prophet, to establish the king-
dom of God upon the earth, no more to
be thrown down. what a glorious
scene now bursts upon our view !
After the sons of Aaron have been buried .
in total darkness so long, we learn that the
everlasting Gospel is once more restored
to earth — that the kingdom of our God
once more lifts up its royal standard to
the nations — that its officers are sent ,
forth as messengers of peace to every
nation, clothed with the holy Priest-
hood, — that hundreds of thousands have
hailed them as messengers of the Most
High, obeying their message, and
receiving a testimony for themselves
that " the Gospel is the power of God
unto salvation." Surely this is a har-
binger of a still brighter day when the.
kingdom of God shall shed its heavenly
rays throughout our benighted world —
when its officers (those who have the
royal robes of the Priesthood) shall be
the only ones who shall rule among the
nations. Then shall begin a reign of
peace — a year of jubilee, preparing its
recipients for that reign of righteousness
which hath no end.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from pagt 587.)

Wednesday, 15. — At home; much
rain through the day; river rising
rapidly. Mr. Adams, son of John
Quincy Adams, with Dr. Goforth, called
to see me at the Mansion.

At 5 p.m., went to my office, and heard
my letter to Mr. Clay read. At 7 p.m.,
rode to the upper landing with Mr.
Adams.

I insert the following from the Times
and Seasons —

" We take pleasure in announcing to the
Saints abroad that Nauvoo continues to
flourish, and the little one has become a
thousand. Quite a number of splendid
houses are being erected, and the Temple

is rapidly progressing, insomuch that there
is one universal expectation that, before next
winter closes in upon us, the top-stone will
have been raised and the building inclosed.

The Saints continue to flock together from
all parts of this wide-spread continent
and from the islands of the sea. Three
ship's companies have arrived this spring
from England, and are now rejoicing in the
truths of the everlasting Gospel.

The Prophet is in good health and spirits,
and unwearied in his anxiety and labours to
instruct the Saints in the things of God
and the mysteries of the kingdom of Jesus
Christ. Indeed, we may truly say that
those who came to scoff remain to pray.

Many have come here filled with prejudice

Digitized by

560

HI8TOJLY OF JOSEPH BMI3£I.

and strange anticipations, but have been
convinced that report is false with her
thousand tongues, and have almost in
invariably left a testimony behind them.
Instead of finding Mr. Smith the cunning,
crafty, and illiterate character that he had
been represented to be, they have found in
him the gentleman and scholar — frank,
open, generous, and brave.
But it is his immediate connexions and asso-
ciates alone that can appreciate his virtues
and his talents. While his face is set as a
flint against iniquity from every quarter,
the cries of the oppressed ever reach his
heart, and his hand is ever ready to alle-
viate the sufferings of the needy.

A few heartless villains can always be
found who are watching for his downfall or
death ; but the Lord has generally caused
them to fall into their own pit, and no
weapon formed against Him has prospered.
One or two disaffected individuals have
made an attempt to spread dissension ; but
it is like a tale that is nearly told, and will
soon be forgotten.

It was first represented as a monster cal-
culated to spread desolation around ; but we
are credibly informed, by a person who at-
tended their first meeting, that there was
much difficulty in raising a committee of
seven, for there was some objection to

Father ; but as none could be found to

fill the vacuum, he constituted one of the
seven stars!

It will be unnecessary for us to say much
about those luminaries of the last days, as
they shine forth in their true colours in our
columns this week in the trial of President
Smith. But to say anything by way of
warning to the brethren abroad would re-
semble the ' ocean into tempest tossed, to
waft a feather or to drown a fly.' • By their
fruits ye shall know them. Do men gather
grapes of thorns* or figs of thistles P "

The glad tidings of salvation and the
fulness of the Gospel are fast spreading
from city to city and from nation to nation.
The little stone will still increase till the
knowledge of God covers the earth, and
righteousness and truth extend from pole to
pole."

I copy from the Neighbour : —
" To the Friends and Voters of Hancock
County.

Elder William Smith (late representative)
wishes to say to the friends and voters of
Hancock County, that in consequence of the
sickness of his family, now in the hands of
a doctor in the city of Philadelphia, he re-
linquishes the idea of offering himself as a
candidate for a seat in the next Legislature
of Illinois ; but, as a matter of the highest
consideration, would recommend his brother
Hyrum Smith as a suitable and capable

person to fill that office, and worthy of the
people's confidence and votes.

We know of no person that would be more
qualified to fill his station than General m
Hyrum Smith (his brother). We are not *
informed whether the General will accept of
the office or not. If he will, we don't know of
, any gentlemen in Hancock County who would
be more competent. Gen. Smith is a man
of sterling integrity, deep penetration, and
brilliant talents. He is well versed in
politics, and as unchangeable as the ever-
lasting hills. He is a man of probity and
virtue, and an unwavering patriot.

If Gen. Hyrum Smith will atlow his name
to be brought forth, we go it for him ; and
we know from the confidence and respect
that are entertained for him as a gentleman
and a patriot, he will be elected. What say
you, General P"

Thursday, 16. — Went to my office at
8 a.m., and heard read a letter written
by Elder Hiohards, in behalf of the
Conncil, to Elders Orson Hyde and
Orson Pratt at Washington.

I ordered the Municipal Court te
meet at one p.m., and spent the morn*
ing in reading.

At one p.m., I presided in Municipal
Court. The case ox Jeremiah Smith, sen.,
who had been arrested by Jones on the
charge of procuring money at Washington
under falsepretences, came up on Habeas
Corpus. The complainant, T. B. Johnson,
by his counsel, Chauncev L. Higbee, asked
for and obtained an adjournment for one
week in order to procure witnesses. The
petitioner, by his counsel, Geo. P. Stiles,
objected to the plea, supposing the prose-
cuting party always ready for a trial. The
court decided that it was an important case,
and was not best to be in haste ; and if the
prisoner is discharged on the merits of the
case after a full investigation, he goes tree
for ever. The majority of the court de-
cided to adjourn until Thursday next.

I was about home the rest of the day,
and read in the Neighbour the report of
my trial before the Municipal Court on
the 8th inst.

The following appears in the Times
and Seasons: —
" Dear Sir,—

I have just returned from the north part of
this State, where I have been on business
for our beloved President Joseph Smith ;
and it feels so good to breathe the pure air
of liberty and friendship after spending
some three or four days in a swamp, or
rather a slough of religious prejudice and
political hypocrisy, which are equally nau-
seous and offensive, that I cannot let this
opportunity pass withot giving vent to some

Digitized by

HI8T0BT OF J08EPH SMITH.

561

of my feelings in regard to what passed
while I remained at the town of Dixon, on
Bock River.

My principal business was to appear in
the Lee County Circuit Court as a witness
in the case of Joseph Smith v. Joseph H.
Reynolds and Harmon T. Wilson, for false
imprisonment and using unnecessary force
and violence in arresting the plaintiff.

A plea had been entered in this suit by
this counsel for the defendants, to which the
counsel for the plaintiff demurred. The de-
murrer was argued on Wednesday morning,
the 8th inst., and the parties finally joined
issue on the charge for using unnecessary
forte and violence ; and the court gave per-
mission ; by consent of the bar, to proceed
with the trial, but the counsel not being
fully prepared, it was laid over until the
following morning, the 9th inst.

On Thursday morning, after the usual
preliminaries of opening court, the above
case was called up for trial, and the clerk
ordered to impanel a jury : and here, sir,
a scene took place which ought to make
every honest American citizen blnsh and
weep for the credit and honour of his
country and laws. A number of men were
called up, and when questioned as to whether
they had previously expressed opinions in
relation to the suit now pending, nearly the
whole answered in the affirmative. The
further question was then put as to whether
they had any prejudice against either of the
parties ; to which a great majority replied
they had against Smith. They were then
questioned as to what their prejudice had
reference — his religous sentiments, or general
course of conduct. The greater part replied,
To his religious sentiments; and the remainder
said they were opposed to his general course
of conduct.

About twenty men had to be called upon,
one after another, out of which number the
court finally selected twelve as competent
jurors, although the majority of these de-
cidedly expressed their feelings of prejudice
against the plaintiff. They were, however,
accepted on the ground that they said they
thought they could do justice to both
parties, although some of them expressed
a doubt whether they could do justice or not.

The jury being sworn, the court, or rather
the counsel, proceeded to examine the wit-
nesses on the part of the plaintiff, which
occupied nearly the whole day. But little
of the real matter of fact could be set before
the court, on account of their being confined to
the charge of unnecessary force and violence;
hnt this was proven in the clearest point of
light.

I must refer to the testimony of old Mr.
Dixon, whose silvery locks seem* to tell an
age of many years. His evidence related
to the circumstance of the Missouri Sheriff

refusing for a length of time to give the
plaintiff the privilege of Habeas Corpus, and
threatening to drag him to Missouri in
fifteen minutes from the time they arrived
at Dixon. The old gentleman seemed to
tremble with indignation while relating the
simple facts as they transpired at the time ;
and, like a true lover of his country, ap-
peared proud of the priviledge of telling
those men that the citizens of Dixon would,
not suffer themselves to be disgraced by
permitting them to drag away a citizen of
this State to a forign State for trial, with-
out the privilege of a trial by Habeas
Corpus — a privilege which is guaranteed to,
every individual under like circumstancea
and especially when it was understood that
he was to be dragged to Missouri, amongst
a people whose hands are yet dripping with
the blood of murdered innocence, and
who thirst for the blood of General Joseph
Smith as the howling wolf thirsts for its
prey. Surely such a picture would melt
the heart of anything but an adamantine.
There are those, and men too who profess
to be the followers of the Lord Jesus Christ,
who can hear such things, and still wish the
Missourians had got Gen. Smith to Missouri
to murder him without judge or jury ; and
surely they are no better than murderers
themselves, and only lack the oppurtunity to
make them shedders of innocent blood.
After the evidence was through on the

Sart of the plaintiff, the witnesses for the
efence were examined, which only occupied
a few minutes. The arguments were then
advanced on both sides, during which time
I could not help noticing how apt the re-
spectable gentleman of the opposite counsel
was to sing the song of ' old Joe Smith, &c. f
which might appear very gentlemanly in
his mind, but to me it seemed as contempt-
ible as the voice of a stupid ass, or the
tongue of slander.

Finally the case was submitted to the jury,
who were charged by the court, and then or-
dered to retire and bring in a sealed verdict
the following morning at nine o'clock.
Friday morning came and with it the
verdict, and it proved to be in favour of the

Slain tiff and against the defendants for forty
ollars and costs of suit. I confess 1 was
astonished when I heard it, and could not
help thinking that prejudice sometimes
overrules justice even in the jury box. I
could not help comparing the results of this
trial with one which came off the day pre-
vious, wherein a certain person complained
of another for destroying his cow by setting
his dogs on the animal until they worried
her. It appeared the cow of the plaintiff
had seen fit to break into the defendant's
lot without asking leave, and the defendant,
or rather his men, not liking such treat-
ment, set their dogs on her and destroyed

Digitized by

EDITORIAL

562

lier. Well, the result of this trial was a
Yerdict of damages for the plaintiff of thirty
dollars and costs.

Now, sir, compare the two cases. On
the one hand, here is a citizen of the
United States near two hundred miles from
his home and his friends : he is on a visit
with his family, not dreaming of danger
or difficulty. Two men — rather wolves in
sheep's clothing— for it is a fact that when
Wilson and Reynolds, made inquiry tor Gen.
Smith at Dixon at the time of the arrest,
they said they were Mormon Elders, and
wanted to see President Joseph Smith, &c.,
— two men, I say, while he is thus enjoying
himself with his family, came upon him
with each a loaded pistol in his hand, and
threatened to shoot him dead if he offered
the least resistance, although no resistance
had been offered. They then began to haul
him about ; and when he asked them what
they wanted with him, and what was their
authority, they replied they were going to
take him to Missouri ; and, jamming their
pistols at his side, swore that was their

authority. He requested them to let him
go into the house to bid his family good-bye ;
but this they positively refused, not even
giving him the privilege to get his hat.
They then forced him into the waggon, and
placing themselves one on each side, with a
loaded pistol pressed close against Ms side,
and repeatedly striking him with them, so
as to make him lame and sore for two
weeks afterwards, they drove him to Dixon,
and ordered horses ready in fifteen minutes
to drag him among his murderers; and
otherwise abused, insulted, threatened, and
treated him in the cruellest manner possible,
filling his family with the most excruciating
pangs, and rending the heart of his beloved
"companion with grief to witness their fero-
cious cruelty, not knowing but his life would
be sacrificed before morning; and finally
pursued their persecutions until it cost him
thousands >upon thousands of dollars ex-
penses ; and all this without a cause ; and
when he sues for justice against these men,
he obtains damages to the amount of FORTY
dollars !

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, August 31, 1861.

THE REDEMPTION OF ZION DEPENDENT ON THE PROGRESS
MADE BT THE SAINTS.

There is, perhaps, no event in the future that has been anticipated with more
eager, anxious desire, by the people of God in these days, than the triumph of the
Church and kingdom which he has established. By its triumph we do not mean
a temporary success over mobocratio assailants; but we mean its complete
ascendancy over and independence of every other power on the face of the
earth — an ascendancy that would enable it to assume its legitimate position as
the ruling power among men. Various causes have contributed to make this
the leading desire in the minds of the Saints. Foremost among these has been,
the knowledge that when the kingdom of God -should emerge from its subordinate
position, and cast aside every trammel and symbol of inferiority, truth and
righteousness would prevail, virtue would be respected, and they who desired to
be governed by those principles would be encouraged and protected, and not
have their lives endangered. Thef past sufferings of the Saints, on account of
their devotion to these principles, have caused them to think that they could ap-
preciate the day of liberty which such an event would usher in, — a day when
misrule, dishonesty, corruption, and fraud, and the long list of evils which follow
in their train, would be banished from among men, and good government, in-
tegrity, virtue, and justice would take their place. They have had every reason
to believe, [and feel confident that the kingdom of God, now established, will

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

563

triumph. Prophets of ancient days have agreed in their testimonies and predic-
tions that at some time in the future God's kingdom would be set up in power,
never more to be thrown down. It was to rise from a condition of weakness —
a condition where it could be treated with contumely and contempt, to an exalted
position. They who had despised it, and the sons of them that had, in its time
of weakness, afflicted it, should come bending in humility unto it, bowing them-
selves down, and in their deep abasement willing even to lick up the dust of its
feet, or the feet of those composing it. It should become so powerful, also, that
the nation or kingdom that would not serve it should perish — should be
utterly wasted away. Prophets in modern times have also added their testi-
monies and predictions to those of their ancient predecessors upon these points,
and they have all united in describing this as being the time when these things
should begin to be fulfilled. v

In consequence of the pointed manner in which these predictions have referred
to the present as being the time when the redemption of the kingdom of God, or
Zion, from the thraldom in which it has been placed, should be consummated,
and when it should be elevated to supreme power in the earth, many have sup-
posed that there was an exact period or year fixed and decreed in the bosom of
the Almighty for this event to take place, irrespective of the condition of the
people composing Zion, or their fitness for the assumption of such power. En-
tertaining this idea, many have been disappointed ; more, however, by their own
imaginings respecting the time when certain events shall take place than by any-
thing emanating from the Lord on the subject. Imagining that the time was
fixed for the kingdom to triumph, or for Zion to be redeemed, they have also
imagined that if the Saints were not in as suitable a condition as they might be —
not quite qualified and prepared to assume the important position of rulers in the
midst of the earth — that the Lord would exert his power, and they would be en-
dowed by him with every essential qualification. This feeling may not have
found utterance in plain language as frequently as it has been exhibited in the
anticipations and hopes constantly indulged in and often expressed. The pro-
gress of the Saints in the knowledge and in the exercise of the truth has nob
been accepted by many as an evidence by which to judge of the approach of the
day when Zion shall be' redeemed ; but this has been overlooked, and the lapse of
time —of some fixed period that has been supposed to be the amount allowed by the
Lord for the consummation of his purpose — has been closely scrutinized and
measured, as affording an index by which a correct conclusion might be arrived
at as to when the Saints would possess the kingdom and the greatness of the
kingdom under the whole heaven, and Jesus make his appearance.

Need we say, at this late day in the progress of the work of God, that this is
an erroneous method of judging of the approach of these events P By what, then,
shall we judge ? When will the Saints possess the kingdom P Of this we may
rest assured — they will not possess the kingdom, if by that is meant the power to
' rule and exercise dominion over the earth, until they themselves have made such
progress in the knowledge of God and the principles of truth as to be willing to
yield an implicit obedience to him and to be governed in all things by his laws.
No matter how long a period may elapse before the Saints attain unto this con-
dition, they must attain unto it (whether it be they who are now recognized as
Saints, or their children, or another people who may be raised up,) before the im-
portant and immense interests which God has promised shall yet be in their
hands, can be entrusted to them. If it were otherwise than this, the triumph of

564

EDITORIAL.

the kingdom of God would be anything but a blessing to his people, for the power
they would thus obtain they would not know how to use, except for their own
destruction. Before the kingdom of God can have the power which every Saint
anticipates and desires to see enjoyed, there must be a growth and development
of the whole people suited to the new power and position which will be laid upon
them. It is not only necessary that the authorities of the Church should com-
prehend the truth and be willing to be governed by its laws, but the whole people
must become educated in the truth and be equally obedient to its requirements.
The kingdom cannot have power only as the people are willing to be governed
by its laws. However desirous the Almighty might be to bestow power and do-
minion upon the people, he could only de so, to be consistent with his designs, in
proportion to their willingness to be thus governed ; and they cannot be thus
governed until among the people of God themselves there shall be found a
majority of the Saints understanding the truth, and having faith in the work and
willing to render unmurmuring obedience to every requirement that may be made
of them. When the time shall come — if it has not already come— when the
majority of the people are in this condition, and the remainder are approximating
towards it, then may we indulge in the hope that the redemption of Zion and the
triumph of the kingdom are nigh at hand.

It is that we might be brought into this condition that God has been educating
his people for the past thirty years in the school he has placed us in ; and though
many may think that we have learned the lessons pretty thoroughly, we are far
from being as perfect as we must be. The great difficulty the Prophet Joseph
had to contend with throughout his life was the unwillingness of the people to
submit to the requirements demanded by the laws of God. He was a man that
had learned rapidly, and thoroughly understood what would be for the good of
mankind : but the Saints could not see as he could ; they were not sufficiently
advanced in their education, and their want of understanding acted as a perpetual
restraint upon him. He could impart to the people only a small portion of that
which he himself had learned : the laws which he understood by his advancement
in knowledge, and would willingly obey, they could not understand nor receive,
and he did not dare to enforce them, or even make them known in their fulness :
the people generally could not have endured them, rebellions being frequent, in
consequence of what little he did communicate. Simple and plain laws, that now
are easily comprehended, could, in his day, be appreciated by but few. And
though the Saints have made great progress in understanding and in the prin-
ciples of obedience since then, they are not yet in the condition they must be in
before any considerable amount of power can be given to them. To illustrate
this, we have only to examine the feelings of the Saints. Though there are but
very few requirements made of them, and those of the most simple nature— so
simple that a child might attend to them without their being irksome, yet how
few there are, comparatively speaking, who submit to them without murmuring !
And if this is the case with the few simple requirements made of members 6f the
Church, how much more would it be the case with them were they to be required
to, submit to all the laws of God being put in full force upon them in a national
capacity, with the consequences of a violation ! How many would be willing to
submit unmurmuringly to these ? Take the fruitful source of apostacy as an
instance — the sin to which almost every man's apostacy who has received a know-
ledge of the truth, can be traced — namely, adultery, (and when we say adultery we
include its kindred sins,)— how many of the Saints would be willing to submit to

Digitized by

BDlXOBIAt.

565

God's law, with its penalties for this sin, being made binding npon them P Other
laws might also be enumerated, but this is sufficient for our illustration.

When the people become so advanced in the truth as to readily recognise this
law just alluded to as a law to which they are willing to be amenable, then it
will be an easy matter to put this law in foroe, because, when this shall be the
ease, they will have made such progress that the law will be as a dead letter to
them ; they will be living entirely above it. And so with every other law the
people must progress until they recognise it as a law binding upon them ; and
when they have thus recognised it, the public sentiment will admit of its being
put in force, because the people will have already obeyed it. While the majority
of the people of God are violators of a law, suoh is the constitution of the king-
dom of God, being founded upon the obedience of the people through the exer-
cise of their free agency, that law cannot be put in force. A few may obey it,
but it cannot be made universally binding. The Lord may present it to them ;
and though at the time they hear H their education in his school may not have
been so advanced as to enable them to comprehend it, they may after a while
accept it and submit to it. As the number of those who love the truth, and are
gathered together in one place, increases, so does their power over evil increase.
This is the ease in Zion. There the knowledge of the people is being developed ;
they are being rapidly educated in the ways of righteousness ; and when they
become so advanced as to readily recognise and submit to all the revealed laws of
God, then they will be in the possession of power. Apostacy will be compa-
ratively unheard of; for the sin, which is the most fruitful source of apostacy,
will receive its meet punishment before the sinner gets to that point. Dissension
and division will become less and less ; and if any, still under the influence of
the Evil One, should seek to promote discord, he would be unable to obtain fol-
lowers ; the class which now contributes all or nearly all of those who swell the
ranks of Dissenters would not be in existence. It was the ushering in of this
time that the Prophets looked forward to and foretold in rapturous strains. They
saw that the time was coming when there would be gathered together upon the
earth a sufficient number of men and women devoted to the truth to form the
nucleus of that kingdom which should stand for ever. They also saw that circum-
stances would be favourable to their continued increase in numbers and knowledge,
and that eventually, through this increase, they would be governed by the laws of God,
which would extinguish sin, and they would become a power in the midst of the
earth. They had tried, while they lived, to accomplish this, but in vain. They died
without the sight of such a condition of things, only as they saw it in vision. But
they saw Zion after she had progressed far beyond the point to which she has yet
attained : they saw her when the glory of God would be revealed in her midst.
They did not, however, see this until the people, by diligent adherence to the word
and laws of God; were prepared therefor.

It is folly for the Saints to neglect their duties, and still think, while doing so,

and it may be within the period estimated by them ; bat they will not be in a

and His work admits of their obtaining.

Movements op the Presidency. — Presidents Amasa M. Lyman and Charles C. Rich
left this place on the 16th inst., for Copenhagen, on a visit to the Scandinavian Mission.
T!hey intend, in company with brother Van Cott, visiting the Saints in their various Con-
ferences, and holding meetings with them, and will probably be absent a few weeks.

redeemed. Zion will be redeemed,

Digitized by

566

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.
( Extract of a letter from Elder Clayton.)

G. S.L. City, July 16, 1161.
President Gannon.

Dear Brother, — To-day commences
the sale of all the Government property
at Camp Floyd, by auction, — buildings,
grain, hay, and everything except arms
and ammunition, soldiers 1 clothing, and
waggons and teams. They will move
away for the States within two weeks,
and thus end the great Buchanan Utah
Expedition, costing the Government
millions, and accomplishing nothing,
except making many of the Saints com-
paratively rich, and improving the cir-
cumstances of most of the people of Utah.
You may well believe that merchants
and speculators look blue and gloomy
enough, and the true Saints feel well
in proportion ; while some, who think
more of money and riches than they do of
eternal life, feel nearly as bad as Gentiles.

Last week the first telegraph pole
was raised in the city, and they are now
upon the western route, a considerable
distance on the State road. The daily
mail is in full operation ; passengers
pass through nearly every day for Cali-
fornia and the States, and things gene-
rally look lively and very good. Crops
never looked better. Farmers are in
the midst of harvest ; but it is feared
much grain will be wasted for want of
labourers. Cradlemen are asking
three-and-a-half bushels of wheat per
day for cutting grain, and we see very
few indeed loafing in the streets. The
California emigration which has gone
through this season has been heavy,
and nearly all appear to be wealthy
farmers. The trouble in the States is
the chief cause, which is indeed bad ;
but it is only just commencing : they will
have enough of it by-and-by.

Some kind friend sends me tho Mil-
lennial Star regularly. I thank you for
that. God bless you and your asso-
ciates and all faithful Saints.

As ever, your friend and brother,
William Clayton.

Philadelphia, July 30, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — From the time of our
arrival in the States up to the time of

the Saints starting from Florence, we
were adding slowly, but steadily, to the
Church. Also in New York great good
has been done ; the honest have sought
the truth and obeyed. It is true, they
number very few when we think of the
thousands there are who attend " divine
service," and as yet have never heard
the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and conse-
quently have never obeyed. They will
listen i to our fireside talk, and acknow-
ledge the truth with a home phrase —
"That's so," or "That's true;" but
when the words come — " I am a Latter-
day Saint." it is, "What! a Mormon P"
Yes. "Oh, such trash! Who could
ever believe such stuff P" The name of
" Mormon" kills them. Apostles are
" done, away ;" revelations are " no
longer needed ;" any man who has re-
ceived an * education, or has common
sense, can preach the Gospel: "We
have our Pope, our Bishops, our Right
Reverends, our D. D's." I*ut they have
never given it a thought that God " set
in the Church, firstly, Apostles ; se-
condarily, Prophets ; thirdly, Pastors and
Teachers, for the work of the ministry."
The Pope is not mentioned ; although,
when he dies, they will have another.
The Bishop is not mentioned ; still, the
Protestants make him the head of their
church, and when he dies it is necessary
to have another, so that their church
organization may be complete. But
when an Apostle dies, he must not
have a successor, as it is not necessary
to have the organization of the Church
of Christ complete on earth ! O man,
how hast thou perverted the ways of the
Lord!

I accompanied nearly a thousand
Saints (gathered up from Massachusetts,
Connecticut, New York, Pennsylvania,
Delaware, &c.,) to Florence, and en-
joyed the society of the brethren and
sisters on the frontiers very much. I
left brother Snow at Florence, and ex-
pected to find brother Pratt in New
York ; but when I arrived in that city,
I learned that he had gone home.
Yesterday I received a letter from them,
dated Florence, July 17th, stating that
they expected to leave for home that
day, in company with Elders J. W.
Young, N. V. Jones, Jacob Gates, and
others. God speed them on their jour-

Digitized by ViOOQ IC

C0BBE6P0NDENCE.

567

ney ! Every Saiiit who reached Flor-
ence, and desired to go home this season,
has had the privilege. The sending
down of waggons from Utah to Florence
is a grand scheme, and those going to
Zion by them are truly the Independent'
Companies. Every waggon nas its
teamster, and from twelve to fourteen
persons to a waggon. A mounted
guard has also been sent with the com-
panies — men of experience in herding
and guarding ; also leaders of the right
stripe — Elders Ira Eldridge, Joseph W.
Young, Joseph Home, John Murdoch,
&c., — men who have crossed the Plains,
understand camp life and the Indians,
and are not afraid of the devils. The
thanks of the Saints are ascending to
God for their deliverance from this land
of death and destruction, fbr truly it is
so. The feeling of "M kill you" has
taken hold of all creeds, sects, secret
societies, and parties. Catholics are
heading Catholic to kill Catholic Epis-
copalian to kill Episcopalian, Baptist
to kill Baptist, Methodist to kill Me-
thodist, and Presbyterians to kill those
of the same faith. It does seem as
though the Lord intended to make a
full end of all nations, that the cry of
the Saints "and the blood of the Saints
may cease to ascend unto him.

My kind love to brothers Charles
and Amasa, and all my brethren. . Your
fellow-labourer in the Redeemer's
cause,

John D. T. M'Allister.

ENGLAND.
Sawtry, Hunts., Aug. 14, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since my last to you,
I have been actively engaged in visiting
the Saints in the various Branches that
compose the Bedfordsjiire Confer-
ence as often as circumstances and my
other duties would permit. The Spirit
of God has attended my administrations
among the people, which has caused
me to have many times of rejoicing with
the Saints.

Having just completed a visit round
the Conference, I feel gratified in being
able to state that I find the Branches of
the Church, as a general thing, in a
healthy condition. The great majority
of the Saints are striving to live their

religion, and, I believe, are doing the
best they can under the varied vicissi-
tudes of life by which they are sur- ■
rounded. In this, as in many other
Conferences, the Saints are not over-
burdened with a super-abundance of
the riches of this life, but still they feel
happy in the faith of Christ. What
they have, together with themselves, if
required, is on hand to be used for the
rolling forth of the work of God and the
spread of truth.

Our meetings, as a general thing, con-
tinue to be well attended. Up to the
present time there has been no disposi-
tion to interfere or molest us in any
way. The people pay good attention,
and treat us respectfully wherever we
go. Our out-door preaching has been
attended with good, and we are adding
to our numbers by baptism nearly every
week. , Persons who once were in the
Church, but in a dark hour stepped
aside for a little season, are now return-
ing to the fold. Some say they have
never known a happy hour since they
left the Church. Thusx the work of the
Lord still continues to roll forth in
this part of his vineyard, and is gather-
ing in the honest from among the chil-
dren of men, in spite of all opposition.

On the 7th ult., we held our Confer-
ence at Bedford. We had the pleasure
of having with us Presidents Lyman
and Rich, also Elder E. H. Blackburn.
The weather was very unfavourable;
still the Saints gathered in from the
Branches for thirty miles round, and we
had a large attendance. It was truly
a happy time and a season of rejoicing,
and will long be remembered by the
Saints of the Bedfordshire Conference.

The financial condition of the Con-
ference was reported, showing it to be
entirely free from debt, and having a
balance ef several pounds in hand.
The Saints had the opportunity of hear-
ing in what way their means had been
UBed, and how and on whom the same
had been expended. The report gave
entire satisfaction to all.

The statistical report for the half-
year ending June 30th showed that the
Conference numbered 478 members,
including officers. Since January last,
68 had been added by baptism.

On Monday the 8th instant, a tea-
party was held, when between one and
two hundred persons sat down to tea.

Digitized by CjOOQ IC

568 SUMMARY.

A part of the evening was devoted to
singing, reciting, &c ; after which, Pre-
sidents Lyman and Rich gave some
valuable instructions. The Saints then
dispersed and went to their homes, feel-
ing that their spiritual strength had
been renewed, and that they had been
greatly benefited by attending Con-
ference.

The spirit of emigration is in lively
operation among the Saints. Many are
making everything bend to that object,
and are not leaving anything undone
that will in the least way tend towards
their emancipation from these lands in
the coming spring. The prospect is, at

{present, that over twice as many will
eave this Conference in the spring of
1862, for Utah's peaceful vales, than
did last spring.

The Millennial Star comes to hand
very regularly, and is hailed as a welcome
messenger to the dwellings of all who
take it. The Saints manifest their ap-
preciation of it by striving to practically,

carry out the valuable instructions it
contains.

Elders Matheson and Cooper, who
are at present travelling in this Con-
ference, are doing a good work : they
are ever willing to obey counsel and do
all in their nowerto roll forth the wort
I can also say the same with regard to
the local Priesthood : all seem to be
alive in their duties, and realize the ne-
cessity of thrusting in their sickles
while the harvest is ripe. As for my-
self, I never felt better than I do at the
present. I desire to do all I can, in my
feeble way, to spread the truth and
assist in gathering the Israel of our
God. I am on hand to be where I can
do the most good, and where my humble
services are most required.

Ever praying for your continued
prosperity and welfare in the kingdom
of God, and that of your associates, I
subscribe myself, your brother and
fellow-labourer in the Gospel,

Joseph Bull.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — The details respecting the out-
rages committed by the Neapolitan brigands
increase rather than diminish in horror.
AtViestri the brigands barbarously killed
nine gentlemen of the Liberal party, and
similar atrocities were committed in other
villages. In the commune of San Paolo, in
the district of Molise, the brigands, all
dressed in the uniform of the old Bourbon
gendarmes, surprised the town, and, after
having sacked the houses, without exception,
took the curate, his brother, and the syndic
of the village, and having brought them out
naked on the public square exposed them to
the derision and the insults of the vilest of
the populace, who made common cause with
the brigands, and, after this spectacle had
lasted several hours, murdered them with
their bayonets. They then took the wife of
the syndic, and, after having stripped her
naked, committed on her person every
imaginable outrage, leaving her half dead.
Having learned that a certain Guisoppe
Cawarano, a respectable man, was trying
to escape in order to alarm the neighbour-
ing villages, they arrested him, and having
pressed him up as a woman in the middle of
the public square, they set fire to his dress
and burned him alive. Hearing the ap-
proach of a detachment of troops^ from
Barano, and of National Guards from the
neighbouring villages, they betook them-
selves to a precipitate retreat.

Spain. — Accounts from Spain state that
in Catalonia the wheat and other crops have
been burnt up. At Malaga and Seville the
heat has become insupportable, and do one
can leave his house between nine in the
morning and nine at night without danger.

Germany. — The procession, and show,
and demonstration of the tourners are hailed
as the most effectual and grand popular
affair of Germany since the days of the
rising and resurrection of the nation against
Napoleon in 181 1 - 12. The gigantic fearn-
platz was fenced in, and ornamented by
thousands of flags and streamers, and the
entrance to it was a mile-long succession of
triumphal arches, garlands, flags, banners
and streamers, deputations, ornamental
young " women in white," surrounded by
many hundreds of thousands of enthusiastic
spectators and cheering crowds. But the
most important day was the 12th, when the
representatives of the 80,000 tourners of
Germany held their long parliament in the
" Walhalla," and, after much dissenska
and discordant speeches, finally decided on
the best means and modes for further deve-
lopment of the united muscles and minds cf
all Germany.

Poland.— A letter from Proktrow, in
Poland, states that, on the 12th, the anni-
versary of the union of Lithuania with
Poland, the population, in spite of the orders
of the authorities that no demonstration

Digitized by CjOOQIC

THINGS WOBTH BEMEMBBBINO.

569

should be made, shut up their shops, went
en masse to the churches, and afterwards
sang patriotic hymns. But suddenly the
police went round the town, and by force
compelled the shopkeepers to take down
their shutters. Orders were also given that
there should be no illuminations, and at
nightfall the police stationed themselves in
the streets to prevent any ; but all the popu-
lation — men, women, and children — turned
out with paper lanterns in their hands, and
paraded before the house of the military
commander, General Wagner. This de-
monstration was all the more amusing from
the fact that the general had a few days
before issued an ordinance that at night no
one should appear in the street without
lanterns ! He was greatly exasperated, and
ordered the troops to charge the people, but
the latter dispersed with loud laughter. The
troops, however, were made to remain all
night under arms.

Syria. — News from Beyrout states that
the organisation of native tribunals is pro-
- gressing. A measure prepared by the Pasha
had produced a favourable effect.

New Zealand. — The intelligence from
New Zealand is most gloomy. Sedition is
spreading among the natives. The Gover-
nor has issued a proclamation demanding
obedience.

America. — A despatch has been received
by Senator Harlan, of Iowa, stating that a
large force of Confederates had invaded that
State and taken possession of Cro^on, near
Keokuk. A battle occurred at Dug Spring,
19 miles south of Springfield, Mo., between
the Federal forces under General Lyon and
the Confederate forces under General
M'Culloch, in which it is said that eight of
the former were killed and 30 wounded,
and 40 of the latter killed and 44 wounded.
General Lyon took 80 stand of arms and 15
horses and waggons. On the 7th inst. the
United States gunboat Flag arrived at Fort
Miffin, with 38 Confederate prisoners taken
from a Confederate war vessel which the
revenue cutter Aikin seized at Charleston
last winter. The following is an extract
from a letter received by a gentleman in
Quebec, from a resident in Montgomery : —
" Now for war news. Of course all the
accounts you receive are in favour of the
North. Don't believe a word of them. We
have whipped* the Yankees badly every time,
and Will do it again and again. Out West,
last week, we killed 800 and took 1,200 pri-
soners. On Thursday last, in Virginia,
near Manassas Gap, we killed 900, besides
taking a number of prisoners, and our loss
was only 120 men. In every engagement,
so far, we have fairly mowed them down."

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

" Common Law." — What is termed " common law" is the unwritten law of the country,
founded on custom, usage, and maxims of common sense ; but it is varied by written,
printed, or " statute law," made for the purpose of correcting and defining common law.

i? inger Rings.— If a gentleman wants a wife, he wears a ring on the first finger of the
left hand ; if he is engaged, he wears it on the second finger ; if married, on the third;
and on the fourth if he never intends to be married. When a lady is not engaged, she
wears a ring on her first finger ; if engaged, on the second ; if married, on the third ; and
on the fourth if she intends to die a spinster.

Stars of the First Magnitude. — The stars of the first magnitude are as follow : —
Aldebaran, in the constellation Taurus ; Castor, in Gemini ; Regulus, in Leo; Spica, in
"Virgo ; Autares, in Scorpio ; Dubhe, in Ursa Major ; Capella, in Auriga ; Arcturus, in
Bootes; Vega, in Lyra; Beneb, in Cygnus; Achernar, in Eridanus; Betelguese, in
Orion; Canopus, in Argo; Sirius, in Canis Major; Procion, in Canis Minor; Cor
Hydra, in Hydra ; Fomalbaut, in the Southern Fish.

Chain Rule. — The German chain rule, which is useful in calculating exchanges, &c.,
solves many complicated questions. A number of circumstances produce one result, and
a number of others some other which is required. Multiply each set, and their quotient
is the answer. To effect this, enter the terms in two columns, the first on the right being
the term of demand, or what is sought. Then to the left enter the same in kind, and on
the right what it is equal to ; then, again, on the left, the same in kind as the last and
its equal. Proceed thus till all are set down ; then multiply each set, (after cancelling
similar numbers on each side), and their quotient will be the required answer.

How to test a Bank Note. — The most characteristic features of a genuine bank-
note are — 1st, its extreme thinness, and semi-transparency ; 2nd, its roughness, or
unevenness of surface felt on passing the paper through the fingers ; 3rd, its peculiar
watermark, which is incorporated in the very texture and constitution of the paper ; 4th,
its bevil edges, having three sides rough, and one (which is always a short side) smooth
•r cut ; 5th, its remarkable strength, or power of resisting tension ; 6th, the combination
of letter-press and copper-plate printing, the body of the note being printed by the copper-
plate process, and the cypher, place, and date with types ; 7th, the signature of the clerk.

Digitized by LjOOg IC

570

. * . POETRY.

• . • VARIETIES.

Why are the milkmen like ihe whale that swallowed Jonah ? Because they take in a
great profit out of the water. %

Irish Sergeant: "Attention, company, and 'tend to rowl call. All of ye that are
presint, say Here, and all of ye that are not presint, say Absint."

A Scotch -carrying firm, in the last century, announced that a waggon would leave
Edinburgh for Inverness, " every Tuesday, God willing ; but on Wednesday, whether or no !"

A preacher down South said — " Lord ! we pray thee to curtail the Devil's power in
this place ;" when an old negro, always ready with a response, exclaimed, " Dat right.
Xord ; cut he tail smack off!"

An Irishman got out of the cars at a railway station for refreshments, and unfortu-
nately the bell rang and the train left before he had finished his repast. " Hould on !"
cried Pat, as he ran like mad after the cars ; " hould on, ye murtherin' old sthame ingin—
ye've got a passenger aboard that's lift behind !"

Blacking. — J lb. ivory black, £ lb. treacle, J oz. powdered alum, 1 dr. turpentine, 1 oz.
sulphuric acid, and 2 oz. raw linseed oil. Mix the ivory black and oil till thoroughly
incorporated, and then add the rest of the ingredients. The blacking keeps best in a
bladder. Water must be added if liquid blacking be required.

Pitcher Plant. — Being the inhabitant of a tropical climate, and found on the most
dry and stony situations, nature has furnished this plant with the means of an ample sup-
ply of moisture, without which it must wither and perish. To the footstalk of each legf,
near its base, is attached a kind of bag, shaped like a pitcher, of the same consistence and
colour as the leaf in the early stage of its growth, but changing with age to a reddish pur-
ple. It is girt round with an oblique band or hoop', and covered with a lid neatly fitted,
and movable on a kind of hinge or strong fibre, which, passing over the handle, connects
the vessel with the leaf. By the shrinking or contracting of this fibre, the lid is drawn
open whenever the weather is showery, or dew falls, which would appear to be just the con-
trary of what usually happens in nature, though the contraction is probably occasioned
'by the hot and dry atmosphere, and the expansion does not take place till the moisture
has fallen and saturated the pitcher. When this is the case, the cover falls down, and it
closes so firmly as to prevent any evaporation from taking place. The water having gra-
dually absorbed through the handle into the footstalk of the leaf, gives vigour to the lid
itself and sustenance to the plant. As soon as the pitchers are exhausted, the lids again,
open to admit wijatever moisture may fall : and when the plant has produced its seed, and
the dry season fairly sets in, it withers, with all the covers of the pitchers standing open.

POETRY.

BYE -AND -BYE.

(Selected.)

There's a little mischief-mailing Those who heed his treacherous wooing,

Elfin, who is erer nigh, Will his faithless guidance rue ;

Thwarting every undertaking ; What we clearly put # off doing,

And his name is " Bye-and-Bye." Clearly we shall never do.

What wo ought to do this minute We shall reach what we endeavour,
Will be better done, he'll cry : If on " Now" we more rely,

If to-morrow we begin it, / But unto the realms of" Never"
" Put it off," says Bye-and-Bye. Leads th4 pilot " By-and-Bye."

CONTENTS.

•

Restoration of the Gospel 555 Clayton and M'Allister.— England . Xetter

History of Joseph Smith 559 from Elder Joseph Bull ; 566

Editorial.— The Redemption of Zion Dependent - Summary of News and Passing Events. « f&8

on the Progress made by the Saints.— Move- Things Worth Remembering 569

meats of the Presidency....^. 562 Varieties...* v 570

Correspondence.— America : letters from Elders Poetry.— Bye-and-Bye 570

LIVERPOOL: \

BDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, *2, iSEfflfeTON.

LONDON : ~
FOR SALE AT TlfE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STROt*
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by C^OOglC j

THE UTTER-BAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR,

A noise shaU come ewn to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations : he wUl
plead with aU flesh; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord."— J *to*Hi am

No. 38, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, September 7, 1881. * Price One Penny.

SYNOPSIS OF A DISCOURSE

DELIVERED BY PRESIDENT LYMAN, IN LIVERPOOL, JULY 28, 1861.

(REPORTED BT E. L. SLOAN.)

In addressing you this evening, I
hope that I shall enjoy your discrimi-
nating attention, so that if I say anything
which may appear strange to you, you
may be in a position to carefully com-
pare it with the/Scriptures, and by the
exercise of your unbiassed reason, come
to an honest conclusion. In endeavour-
ing to arrive at knowledge and under- .
standing, we often pursue a course
whieh, instead of reflecting light upon
our minds, leads us into a bewildering
darkness until we find ourselves in-
volved in an intricate net of opinions
and human conceptions, not knowing
with certainty what some things mean
from the places where we find them,
and from their conflicting with some-
thing else which we have received as
truth. We find this exemplified in the
entire history of Christendom, and for
this reason the varied opinions enter-
stained by professors of religion are all
i predicated on particular portions of the
Scriptures, which, in their inability to
comprehend, has led to a multiplicity
of beliefs and endless diversities of
gg&iion.

< -Jfcr my own edification, and for, the
regulation of my own actions to secure
salvation, I want to know what the

' Gospel is, what is required of me, and
what the prospect it extends to me. In
the pursuit of these inquiries I am in-

formed by one friend that all there is
to be accomplished for salvation has
been secured by the mission of Jesus
Christ ; • but, notwithstanding this, he
tells me there is (strange to say,) still
something for me tjo do. Another indi-
vidual infojms me that be is a minister
of the Gospel, and he says that all I
have to eta is to believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ ; and if I believe on the
Lord J*esu8, that believing will secure
me salvation. He has hardly got
through, • when another of my friends
(I have got a great many of them,) comes
forward, who tells me that I need not
trouble myself about believing ; for,
quoting to me a portion of Scripttire, he
says, 44 Whom he did foreknow, he also
did predestinate ; whom he .did predes-
tinate, them he also called; and whom
he called, them he also justified j" and
does not that satisfy me that my ber
lieving or not believing, my efforts to
work righteousness or my servitude
to the carnal appetites, which wo/keth
iniquity, are of no account in the
scheme of salvation, — the fiat having
been pronounced in the bosom of eter-
nity, which ofdains for me eternal feli-
city, or consigns me to irremediable and
never-ending torments. I cannot*
therefore, believe an^r one of my three
friends witnout disbelieving some of the
others and this leads me -to think that

Digitized by

572

8YN0P8IS OF A DISCOUBSK.

they all may be deceived, and that, like
myself, they don't know much : conse-
quently, I am unwilling to place confi-
dence in them . I will therefore start out
for myself in the investigation of the
Scriptures ; and before starting, we will
take one of the declarations contained in
the Bible, which is to be found in Romans
8th chap., 29th and 30th verses, — the
same that has been used to satisfy me
that if I am one of the elect I could not
help being saved. The declaration runs
thus: — "For whom he did foreknow,
he also did predestinate to be conformed
to the image of his Son, that he might
be the firstborn among many brethren.
Moreover, whom he did predestinate,
them he also called; and whom he
called, them he also justified; and whom
he justified, them he also glorified." I
want you to notice particularly the lan-
guage of this portion of Scripture. You
will notice that he says " that he," the
Son, " might be the firstborn among
many." He was not, you will observe,
to be the only one, but he was to be the
firstborn among many brethren.

Now, if you can bring your minds to
imagine anything, I want you to travel
back in imagination to the time when
in the mind of our*Father the concep-
tion was first awakened that he would
send out a branch of his progeny on
this little world — a colony from his habi-
tation of glory to people this planet on
which we reside. But before we go back
in the travellings of imagination, and
leave the Scriptures for a space,' we will
note another declaration contained in
them, which will be found in the 2nd
of Hebrews — " For it became him, for
whom are all things, and by whom are
all things, in bringing many sons unto
glory, to make the Captain of their sal-
vation perfect through suffering." From
this we learn that those things which we
discover in the progress and destiny of
humanity are the development of the
secret purposes of Jehovah, planned in
the councils of heaven long anterior
to their being developed. Then things
were arranged relative to the human
race which embodied the eternal condi-
tion and welfare of the generations of
mankind. The object for which huma-
nity was developed was to bring many
sons to glory, the first pair representing
the entire race. What was designed,
therefore, relative to them, or to any

portion of the family of man, must have
its application to all the human race.
But something is said about somebody
that he should foreknow ; hence, some
have concluded that there were others
he should not foreknow. He has no-
whfcre told us that there were any con-
tingencies with which he was not ac-
quainted. He knew the ends from the
beginnings, for 44 known unto Him are
all his works." He knew what kind of
beings would be thrown out on the tide
of time to struggle on its surging waves,
and in the majesty of his nature he
planned out for them a haven of felicity
— an eternity of glory, that they might
enjoy it with himself. He marked the
sorrowing scenes and ever-changing
vicissitudes which would darken man's
brief existence in mortality. He viewed
the long stream of human generations,
and saw their woes, their sorrows, and
afflictions. He knew this condition
of life would be so constitutionally with
all, for all were made constitutionally
the same ; for he " made of one blood
all nations of men for to dwell on all
the face of the earth. " D i d he foreknow
one ? Yes. Then he foreknew the
entire human race, the same as any
skilful architect comprehends every
portion of his design. He foreknew
them, and provided for them a plan of
salvation sufficiently comprehensive to
exalt all his children in his presence ;
yet there was nothing in this plan which
exercised any influence over man to
make him an irresponsible being. He
gave him power to eat and drink, and
he gave him power to refuse to eat and
drink ; he gave him power to walk, and
he gave him power to refrain from walk-
ing ; he gave him power to do good, and
he gave him power to do evil ; he be-
stowed upom him power to minister bles-
sings, and yet left him free to become
the dispenser of their opposites; he
endowed him with power to assist his
fellow- man ; yet the same hand which
could extend aid to preserve life, under
other circumstances, could grasp the
assassin's dagger and minister evil and
death. Thus we discover that humanity
are constituted to do good or evi — to
walk in the truth, or to follow after and
love a lie, — to be holy in thought and
action, or to descend into the depths of
iniquity and unholiness. This is the
way the race w&e constituted. Then,

Digitized by

SYNOPSIS OP

if he foreknew that I would occupy a
position among mankind, constituted
like the rest of humanity, and subject to
the contingencies which equally affect
them all, what did he predestinate me
forP Why, to become all that huma-
nity were constituted to become. He
foreknew me because he constituted me,
and he predestinated me because he
foreknew me— predestinated me to have
all the exaltation he constituted me ca-
pable of enjoying. The Scriptures say
that " whom he did foreknow, them he
did predestinate ;" for what P 41 To be
conformed to the image of his Son" —
of him who was " the firstborn among
many brethren," that they might be the
recipients of God's mercy and blessings ;
for his charity and preserving care ever
manifest a living remembrance of all
his children. Some suppose that I was
foreordained and predestined to enter
the abyss of hell, to welter irredeemably
in the depths of eternal torments, and
that God — a being of long-suffering and
mercy — a Father whose bowels of com-
passion are ever open towards his chil-
dren, is the Author of the decree which
dooms me unconditionally to this eternal
misery. It is only a mistake ; I was
quite the contrary. I was predestined
to hear — to be called that I might hear ;
and what is true of me is true of all the
race. Man was the object of God's
mercy, who decreed that he should be
exalted to immortality and endless lives.

Well, 44 whom he did foreknow, he
also did predestinate; whom he did
predestinate, them he also called ; and
whom he called, them he also justified."
When you have found the evidence that
any one of the humnn race was predes-
tinated and justified, that evidence will
apply to you and me and to all mankind.
If one man was predestinated to im-
mortality and eternal life, then all man-
kind were included in this foreordination,
for all were constituted alike and made
subject to the same conditions of exist-
ence. It is said in our text (for we
will call it a text,) that 41 whom he did
predestinate, them he also called ;" and
if we can find that this call embraced
the whole of the human race, then all
mankind were predestinated to this
glorious future. When we come back
to see what the Scripture teaches on
the subject of this calling, we find some
light thrown on the matter. How did

A DI8COUH8E. 573

God call any one P He called John and
sent him forth to preach the immediate
advent of the Saviour ; and when perse-
cution shut him up in prison, Jesus
came preaching the kingdom of heaven,
but did not preach to everybody him-
self. He sent out his Apostles into all
world, saying, 44 Go ye into all the world
and preach the Gospel to every creature."
Was this a call P Peter said, on the day
of Pentecost, 41 Repent, and be baptized
every one of you, m the name of Jesus .
Christ, for the remission of sins, and ye
shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost ;
for the promise is unto you, and to your
children, and to all that are afar off,
even as many as the Lord our God shall
call." 44 Even as many as the Lord our
God shall call." Whom does this call
embrace P Why, every creature ; for the
Gospel was to be preached to every crea-
ture. We learn that God called whom
he did foreknow • hence he foreknew all
the world, and called them to receive
the Gospel.

God having constituted mankind with
ability and capacity to enjoy happiness
with himself, provided that all should
be educated, and directed in the way
that would lead them to this high des-
tiny. He predestined man to fill a
future as glorious as the heavens
could unfold — to foster every germ of
divinity within him, till his awakened
soul would expand beneath the ever-
vivifying li^ht of the universe, and soar
to mingle with kindred associations in
the mansions of eternal bliss, — to climb
the glorious heights of perfection, power,
and endless progress. He designed to
make poor weak humanity fit for the
society of God, clothed in garments of
effulgenf light, and crowned with the
glory ef endless lives. Man goes away
rrom hisjittieness in the contemplation
of the exalted destiny awaiting him yet
in the future, and rises above the nar-
row clay that binds his lofty aspirations.
This is man as he is predestined. God
has sent this call to every creature— this
glorious message of life, that man might
be directed in the path of truth and
righteousness, ancl become, not a being
hid in darkness of soul, shrouded in
ignorance amd destitution of light, but
a being gloriously developed, who had
cultivated his abilities for this hijjh ex-
altation to which he was predestinated
before the morning of creation. God

Digitized by

574

sent him here to accomplish the work
which would prepare him for this high
position, and Jesus called his attention
to it — pointed out the 6ad view of a sin-
cursed world lying under the dominion
of ignorance and death, and sent forth
his servants to call man to an under-
standing that he was created for im-
mortality and eternal life. Instead of
finding from this the future unchange-
ably and irrevocably declared, which
would consign one portion of the family
of man unconditionally to endless
misery, and another portion to inappre-
ciable felicity* we discover that God
constituted all to believe, and then sent
forth for their acceptance his revelations
of the truth, and called them that they
might believe, and that they might
reach the high position for which they
were predestined. Seeing that he called
all people, did he justify them P Yes.
How ? Why, " He that believeth and
is baptized shall be saved," — therefore
justified. But do they all believe P No.
Yet that does not alter the declaration,
nor detract from its force. If every crea-
ture believed, then all would be saved,
for the provision was made for all, and
an exaltation predestinated for them ac-
cording to the purposes of Heaven.

This is universal doctrine, to teach
that provison was made for you and me
and all the rest of the family of man.
And what is the nature of that provision P
What is the fore-ordination declared P
Why, simply, God fore-ordained a future
of exalted happiness with himself for all
his children ; he provided and arranged
for our eternal wellbcing, according to
our constitutional requirements, and
these constitutions are simply the re-
flection of his eternal purposes, So
much for fore-ordination and election.
We are of the elect. Who P Why you
and I and the whole family of man.
All were elected ; but on what principle
were all eleoted to be saved P On the
. same principle by which every one who
travels through the region of mortality
can be saved — on the same principle by
which the Saviour of mankind, the first-
born among many brethren, secured his
exaltation in the habitations of eternity ;
and ample provisions were made to
carry a knowledge of this principle to
all, that all might be free to make their
calling and election sure. The teach-
ings of Jesus were in consistency with

SYNOPSIS OF A DISCOURSE.

this plan, his life was directed to the
furtherance of it, and in ressurrected
glory he provided for its dissemination.
Some men teach that election fixes for
humanity an irrevocable fate, consigning
one being to endless misery independent
of his strongest desires and efforts to be
saved, and saves another being in spite
of himself. What is bound to be the
result of thus believing, but to make
men careless of the present and reckless
for the future. Paul assured inquirers
that, if they would believe on the Lord
Jesus Christ, they would be saved, and
pointed out with fervency and zeal the
path of duty which belief on Jesus de-
manded. But now, people have got it
whittled down so small, to please them-
selves, that it is an easy matter to
believe — a trifle indeed to have such
magnificent consequences as are em-
bodied in eternal salvation simply to
believe that the poor, the maligned, and
despised Nazarene was the Son of God,
and came to earth to die for the sins of
mankind. This Son of God taught
mankind the principles of truth, that
their minds might be elevated above the
grovellings of ignorance ; and gave to
his AposBes power to go forth and pro-
claim the principles which he taught —
to call on all to believe and repent, and
forsake their sins, — to be baptized for the
remission of them, and receive the gift
of the Holy Ghost, which would open up
their minds, and reflect the light of
heaven upon their understandings, — to
practise righteousness, and love god-
liness. It required all this to believe in
Jesus, and this the Apostles taught.
But now, cold man, crushing out the
noblest principles of the Gospel, teaches
a. Christianity which only reflects the
veriest hypocrisy in the world. Believe
in Jesus ! Yes, and believe in God — be-
lieve in every being and everything that is
holy and pure, that will elevate human-
ity, and fit men for the associations of
heaven, — believe that Jesus is " the first
born among many/' that he loved
righteousness a,ad hatodjniquity ; there-
fore God anointed him above all his
fellows and follow up the entire
course of his career, seeking, like him,
to love righteousness and hate iniquity,
and keeping the commandments of God.
This is to believe in Jesus, to feel that the
same Eternal Father who elevated him.
the " first-born among many brethren,"

Digitized by

Google

SYNOPSIS OF

to the majesty and glory which his
boundless love has provided, opens the
way for us poor weak children of the
earth to follow in his footsteps, and en-
joy with him an eternity of bliss.

The Gospel of salvation comes to the
erring generations of man laden with
the mercies of a loving and ever-pitying
Parent, and purifies their souls from the
sensualities and ignorance which en-
shroud them while under the dominion
of darkness. Beings thus purified
bring out a corresponding consistency
of belief and practice, glorifying to God
and elevating to themselves. It comes
in the guise of friendship to light up the
benighted soul, to cheer and calm the
miserable and troubled spirit; and
wretched humanity in its promises finds
consolation and comfort. It brings the
prospect of a glorious emancipation to
the miserable, and that dark uncertain
future is removed before one luminous
and bright, through the hopes produced
by believing on Jesus.

When I say "Believe in the Lord
Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved,"
I want you to do more than exercise a
cold formality. Many believe on the
Saviour in that way, and their steps
lead down to death every day, for they
are waiting for God to do something for
them which they think they cannot do
for themselves. Perchance they have
read our text, and think their doom
may be eternal misery. Many adopt
these views partially, and say, "We
can't do anything." They are almost
afraid to attempt to obey the command-
ments of God, because of their lack of
faith in their own ability to do good,
and because of their peculiar ideas con-
cerning the plan of salvation. If they
are doomed to misery, "Why make the
attempt to be saved P" they may in-
quire. When God calls upon us to be-
hove on his Son, do you think he will
be mad at us for believing on him — that
be will be angry with us for obeying his
behest P No: his attributes of justice,
mercy, and love repel the idea. Well,
then, let us believe : believe not only in
the Son of God as an action of the mind,
liut believe in him, embodying in our
practice the principles which he taught,
viewing by the eye of faith the bound-
less mansions prepared for the recep-
tion of believers, the endless glory
which crowns their * destiny, and the

a discourse. 575

myriads whom the Gospel enfolds in its
Saving and comprehensive grasp. What
has Jesus taught us in bis sufferings
and life P He has pointed the road
which leads to victory over sin — to a
triumph over death. He " loved right-
eousness and hated iniquity.' 1 Should wo
not, therefore, love righteousness and
hate iniquity ? Should we not, as the
Gospel requires us, repent and be bap-
tized, to be adopted members of his
great body, and become assimilated into
the likeness of that Jesus — predesti-
nated to be like him, that God might
have many sons assimilated to the great-
ness of his glory P

One happy feature in this view of the
Gospel is, that it embraces all the
truth. There is no truth in the creed
of any man which it dpes not include.
All is embodied in the circle of this
Gospel, and this comprehensiveness of
it invests man with power which he
was constituted to exercise. Bobbing
him of nothing, it makes him free, leav-
ing him an agency that he may believe
or disbelieve. There are no conflicting
principles in this view of the Gospel,
but principle harmonises with principle,
and eternal truth permeates the entire
plan. The principles of the Gospel are
consistent with each other and with the
great purpose for which they were
designed — the salvation of intelligent
beings ; and we cannot take up a single
passage of Scripture, and preach front
it the Gospel. If we attempt to do so,
we fall into error. Thus some take the
language — "Whom he did foreknow,
he also did predestinate. Whom he.
did predestinate, them he also called ;
and whom he called, them he also jus*
tified ; and whom he justified, them he
also glorified ;'" as if God made you to
believe and be saved eternally in his
presence, and me to be damned and
welter in torments forever,— endeavour-
ing to circumscribe the Gospel with a
single principle, and develop the plan
of salvation from an isolated text. He
made us, constituted us, that we might
believe and be saved ; and he made the
Gospel proportionate to meet man's
every want : hence it displays the
beauty of its truth, because it is adapted
to the constitution that Heaven has given
him. Instead of undertaking to under-
stand and explain the Gospel from one
isolated parage, wegapg^ th,

576 8YNOP8I8 OP

revelations of truth with a more com-
prehensive gaze, that we may behold
their adaptability to the requirements
of all created beings.

To look around me and behold the
wisdom in design, and the care mani-
fested by the great Creator towards the
least of all his works, — to see the little
flower opening its petals, to drink in
warmth and life from the genial sun,
and shrinking together from the chills
of gathering night, — to behold the deni-
lens of the tropics and the inhabitants
of the polar regions, animal and vege-
table, designed and constituted for the
temperatures they exist in, — to find the
wisdom of Providence bountifully pro-
viding for man's various earthly wants ;
and yet to conceive that a portion of
this fair creation, on which the eye rests
with such fond delight, and where the
mind can find food for contemplation
and enjoyment, organized like myself,
should for some cause be constituted to
wear out a miserable existence here,
rendered more miserable through the
dark prospects of a terrible future,
without hope and without comfort, is
what I cannot bring myself to believe,
because I have no reason for believing
it. I have travelled Borne little over the
world, and have found everywhere that
God " hath made of one blood all nations
of men" — that men are alike consti-
tuted with capacities which make them
alike.

The reason why the people do not
believe the truth is because the truth
is not taught them ; for truth commends
itself to every honest, intelligent being ;
but they are kept in ignorance by
teachers who are themselves ignorant
of the principles they profess to teach.
The world must not be rudely told that
they are all in the dark. If you go to
a man who is ignorant of the truth, and
coarsely tell him so, you will have diffi-
culty to make him believe you, for that
man cannot see what you see. If you
see anything at all, don't go to him and
tell him he is a poor fool, for his
manhood will rise in arms against you,
and he will not believe you. If you
have been so fortunate as to have
obtained a little light, go to the place
where he resides, and carry the light
with you ; but don't blind his eyes by
thrusting it in his face. Don't tell him
how much truth you have received that

A DISCOURSE.

he is ignorant of, but tell him the
truth.

There is no man who believes the
Scriptures rationally will believe there
is any contradiction in the principles
which they teach. Let us be charitable
with humanity in its ignorance and
blindness, and approximate towards
the likeness of that God who has borne
with your weaknesses and mine, and
has dealt mercifully by us continually.
"But these poor creatures will not
believe me," you may say. Well, your
salvation does not depend on their
reception or rejection of the principles
of truth. Teach them in patience of
soul what you do know; teach them
that we were predestinated to a glorious
future, if we would believe and tread
the pathway walked in by the Saviour
of mankind, 44 the firstborn among many-
brethren." Why, what was Jesus P
He was God. And vet you say, " You
talk about him as if he was man." I
will talk about him only as the Scrip-
tures do. They speak of him as one
who came to the world naked and weak,
the son of man, and the child of poverty,
scorned by his friends and rejected of
his nation. He was poor and despised
of men. The palaces of the wealthy
were closed against him, and temples,
rich in adornment, refused him admis-
sion; but he taught Heaven's broad
truths in tleaven's threat temple, with
the green earth for its carpeted floor,
and the blue firmament above him for
its vaulted roof. There, on the hill side,
or by the borders of the waters of
Palestine, he proclaimed the principles
of life— that the poor among men might
rejoice in the boundless and happy
future to which humanity is predesti-
nated by a loving and glorified Father.
Well, this is the Gospel I would preach
unto you, that you might be nappy
through the knowledge it communicates,
and live worthy to inherit its glorious
promises. It requires the vision of the
mind to be touched by the finger of
eternity, to become acquainted with the
future it reveals — a future in which
every faculty, developed and perfected,
will find room for enjoyment. " Be ye
perfect as your Father in heaven is
perfect." Yes, be ye perfect as He is
perfect who sendeth the rain upon the
just and tho unjust : be ye holy even as
Heisholywho^jttr^eyes abhom*

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH,

577

iniquity. One of the Apostles of pld
said — "Add to your faith, virtue ; and
to virtue, knowledge ; and to knowledge,
temperance; and to temperance, pa-
tience ; and to patience, godliness ; and
to godliness, brotherly kindness ; and
to brotherly kindness, charity. For if
these things be in you and abound, they
make you that you shall be neither
barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge
of the Lord Jesus Christ." He does
not say that God will add to our faith,
virtue ; and to our virtue, knowledge ;
but enjoins all to be diligent to obtain
pos session of these principles. WhoP
why you, my brethren, and me, and all
who believe : all are required to tread
the upward path of progression, to add
principle to principle, to faith, virtue ;
to virtue, knowledge ; to knowledge,
temperance; that we be neither barren*
nor unfruitful in the knowledge of the
mission of Jesus and the truths which
he declared. Some persons, afraid that
they might detract from the merits of
the salvation offered, by presuming that
they could do anything themselves, will
say — " I can't perform any work accept-
able before. God; I can't do anything
towards my own salvation ; lama poor
worm of the dust." Well, I don't care
if you are a poor worm of the dust ; it
was because you were poor that Jesus
came and taught the truth, that you
might be rich. He laboured in love
among poor weak humanity, that they
might become elevated and powerful.
He said to the poor woman, when ber
accusers slunk away convicted of their

iniquity before him, " Go thy way, and
sin no more." Thus the avenue was
pointed out by which she might obtain
peace. Jesus came to tell us — " Go thy
way, and cease from sinning ;" and he
gave his life that Heaven's institutions
might be brought to our knowledge.
Who is to cease from sinning but me,
the sinner P You would not have me
ask God to cease from sinning, who has
done no evil, for me who has sinned in
his sight f Who should stop lying but
the utterer of falsehoods ? And who
should cease from iniquitous practices
but the workers of iniquity P Then
man is blessed that Jesus died P Yes ;
but more blessed that he lived, and in
living taught those principles by which
we could be saved. I want you to take
this practical view of the Gospel — to have
this extended conception of the plan of
salvation. Let us leave off our narrow
views of things, and seek to grasp some-
thing of the comprehensiveness of that
fore,-ordination by which humanity are
predestined to endless happiness and
exaltation through obedience to the
principles of truth, and a rejection of
error with its concomitant evils. I want
to see people think aright, and divest
their minds of the clouds of error and
mists of tradition which obscure their
mental vision, that the purposes of
Heaven may be understood and com-
prehended. T desire to see you so live
that the power of God and the knowledge
of the truth may increase upon you con-
tinually ; and that this may be so is my
prayer in the name ,of Jesus. Amen.

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 562.)

On the other hand, a man loses a cow
which had broke into his neighbour's lot, and
he obtains damages to the amount of tlfirty
dollars !

Now, sir, if this is not the effects of pre-
judice amounting to oppression, then I am
no judge of right and wrong. I am very
much inclined to think that if General
Joseph Smith or any of his friends had
treated any citizen of this State or any
other State in the manner he was treated
by those men, and they had sued for damages
as he did, the case would have terminated
very differently. However, so it is.

The idea of a man yielding to such a de-
gree of prejudice as to render him incapa-

ble of executing justice between man and
man, merely from rumour and report, is to
me perfectly ridiculous and contemptible, as
well as wicked and unjust. And when a
man is all the day long boasting of the
rights and privileges guaranteed to every
citizen of the United States under the Con-
stitution and laws, and at the same time is
so prejudiced against one of the most peace-
able citizens that 4 he does not know whether
he can render him justice' in a court of
equity, but would rather strengthen the
hands of mobocrats and law-breakers, the
inference that one must naturally draw is
that such a man is a consummate scoundrel
and hypocrite, or that he is guilty of the

Digitized by Google

578

HI8T0BY OF J08BPH SMITH,

most flagrant violation of the most sacred
constitutional principles embraced in the
fundamental doctrines of this republic. I
am happy, sir, to have evidence daily that
no such currupt prejudice exists ra the
heart of General Joseph Smith, nor in the
community, so far as I have been able to
discover.

Now, as to the exceptions these men have
taken in regard to Gen. Smith's religious
views or general course of conduct, it mat-
ters not much. His religious views are his
inalienable right, and are no body's business ;
and the man who cannot render him justice
on that account is a wilful violator of the
laws he professes to admire ; apd, sir, I have
for more than two years last past being a
close observer of Gen. Smith's 'general
course of conduct/ as well as his private
life ; and justice to him, to myself, and the
community at large, compels me to say
that, in all my intercourse with men, I never
associated with a more honourable, upright,
charitable, benevolent, and law-abiding
man than is the much -persecuted Gen.
Smith ; and, sir, when 1 hear men speak
reproachfully of him, I never ask for a second
evidence of their corruptness and baseness.
General Smith, sir, is a man of God, a man of
truth, and a lover of his country ; and never
did I hear him breathe out curses or raillery
at any man because he saw fit to differ
in religious matters. Shame on the principle
— shame on the man or set of men who
show themselves so degraded and miserably
corrupt.

The last night of our stay at Dixon, I
had the privilege of speaking on the prin-
ciples of my religion to a number of individ-
uals in a kind of argument with two men ;
and, sir, although it is near some four years
since I have made a practice of preaching,
it felt as sweet as ever. Truth to an honest
heart is sweet, but to a wicked man is like
a piercing sword, as was manifest on that
occasion ; for although the principles of the
Gospel were laid down so plain and clear
that it was impossible to misunderstand,
yet the opposing party repeatedly miscon-
strued my language, and 'even his own
accessions.

I cannot persuade myself that the pre-
judice referred to above is a general thing.
There are many honourable exceptions, and
I presume it the Mormons had signified
their intentions of supporting the Democratic
candidate for the Presidency at the ensuing
election, instead of nominating an indepen-
dent candidate of their own choice, their

prriudtce would not have been so great at
the trial of Reynolds and Wilson, and per-
haps Gen. Smith would have obtained a
judgment somewhat equivalent to the in-
juries he sustained from that unholy prose-
cution. But the Mormon people are too
noble-minded to be bought or biassed by fear
or favour, and have been too often deceived
by the plausible pretensions of demagogues
to put trust in any but tried friends. Gen.
Smith has ever been an undeviating friend,
not only to this community, but to the
oppressed of every name or society, and we
consider him as competent and qualified for
the highest office of the United States as
any other man, and a little more so ; and a
great deal more worthy of it.

In conclusion, let me say that whatever
others may say, I consider it an honour to
be associated with such a man as Gen.
Joseph Smith, and all true followers of the
Lord Jesus Christ ; and the more wicked
men despise and misrepresent the principles
and conduct of President Smith, the more
I love him and delight in his society ; and
this I can do without prejudice or animosity
against any man or set of men. I believe
in the broad principle of equal rights and
privileges, so far as religion or politics are
concerned ; and while I seek to enjjoy my
religion according to the knowledge in me,
I will interfere with the rights of no man,
nor persecute because my neighbour does
not think as I do.

A multitude of business compels me to
dose, and I must forbear.

I have the honour to be your brother in
the everlasting covenant,

William Clayton.

Nauvoo, May 16, 1844."

From the Neighbour; —

"steamboat election.
On the last upward voyage of the Orprey
from St. Louis to this place, as usual, the
merits of the several candidates for the next
Presidential election were discussed. A vote
was taken, and the following was the 'state
of the polls* as handed to us by a gentleman
who came as passenger : —

Gen. J. Smith, 26 gentlemen, 3 ladies,
Henry Oay, 6 2 „

Van Buren, 2 „ „
The ladies are altogether forsaking Van
Buren, and the gentlemen as a matter of
course are following after. There is a
wonderful shrinkage in Henrv Clay, but the
General is going it with a rush.
Hurrah far the General!"

(Totocontimud.)

Irascible Gent (to waiter) : "They say there's nothing like leather, don't they P" " Yes,
sir." 41 Then it's a lie ; for this steak is J" (Waiter evaporates.)

Digitized by

Google

ED1T0BIAL.

579

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, September 7, 1861.

A DREARY PICTURE.

When we peruse the news which every mail brings from the other side of the
Atlantic, we can scarcely realize that the scenes there depicted are transpiring
in the United States. A nation so peaceful, so proud of the extent of their
country and of the harmonious working of their Government and institutions, &•
averse to a strong Government, to a large standing army, and to taxation, — a
nation who boastingly claimed a superiority over the governments of Europe,
pointing, as an evidence of such superiority, to the inexpensiveness of their
system of government, to the large degree of freedom enjoyed by every citizen,
which gave him a voice in the affairs of Government, in the election of his
rulers, and the character of the institutions he wished to live under, — that such *
a nation should, in the short space of eight or ten months, become so utterly
revolutionized in every respect, seems incredible. Though We have been expecting
a grand crash, and have been looking for the breaking out of bloody wars for a
number of years past, yet the description of affairs over there is so horrible that
it is almost past belief. The nation has apparently been seized with madness,
and is rushing to destruction with headlong speed ; but they cannot perceive the
immkiency of their danger. They ..seem to have closed their eyes to every
consideration but the destruction of each other, and to accomplish this they are
willing and eager to risk themselves, their country, and every interest of value.

It had been supposed that after the heat of the first excitement died away,
they would pause and take into consideration the magnitude of the undertaking
upon which they were entering in commencing a civil war ; but this supposition
has thus far proved incorrect, and there does not appear to be the slightest
prospect at present of a suspension of hostilities. The want of money may have
the effect of checking active operations for a time ; but a deficiency even in this
important requisite will not extinguish the war spirit which has seized upon all
classes. Every conceivable plan is being adopted to raise the necessary funds
to carry on the war. Direct taxation of a kind hitherto unheard of in the
United States is to be enforced ; but this measure will only bring in a very small
portion of the sum needed to carry on this stupendous undertaking. The
remainder is to be raised by borrowing at a high rate of interest. Of course a
National Debt is inevitable, and it will soon assume such proportions as to cast
into the shade even the famous debt of England. It is said that the Crimean
war of England was one of the most expensive ever known ; but the cost of the
war in the American States, even in these early days of the struggle, incom-
parably exceeds that. There is a total expenditure of 1,000,000 dollars per
day in the Northern States alone. This amount reduced to English currency
gives in round numbers the immense sum of £73,000,000 a year ! This was the
calculation accepted at Washington at the last advices; but even this amount, it

Digitized by Google

580

EDITORIAL.

is expected, will not cover the expenditure. Another computation raises the
estimate of the total outgoings to £90,000,000 a year! The raising of this amount
of itself, with all its unavoidable consequences, is fearful enough to contemplate.
But this at present is but a matter of minor importance. The raising of the
money will be the easiest part of the business. It is the actual presence of war
in the country, and the consequent suspension of business, that is now being
severely felt. Dr. Russell, the special correspondent of the London Times, in a
letter to that paper, gives graphic details of some of the evils which present
themselves. He says —

" In Missouri, Governor Jackson and his friends — General Lyon and Colonel Siegel — fight
and retreat, advance and countermarch, and engage in skirmishes, without adding one
particle of force to the cause in which they are engaged, and the mass of the people stand
neutral between them. Governor Wise flies through Western Virginia before the Federal-
ists, burning bridges, tearing up railroads, and the inhabitants, possibly, are disgusted
equally with both sides. These desultory operations contribute little or nothing to the
end of the war. And how the people suffer! We do not know what takes place in the
South, but the cries of distress in the country exposed to the Federal troops are loud and
lamentable. Generals issue orders, but the troops do not mind them. Houses ar x e en-
tered, property is pillaged. Even in Maine, far removed from the rancour of hostilities,
the mob has recently been showing its respect for freedom of opinion by attacking Demo-
cratic newspaper-offices and destroying and burning all they could lay their bands on.
In Maryland the voice of complaint is loud and indignant. Respectability of station and
attachment to the Union avail but little. One officer in command at Alexandria, within
* sight of the Whi'e House, is obliged to recommend the people to fix the stars and stripes
on all their property and over all their houses; and then he promises, if that does not do,
to make strict inquiry into the causes of the outrage. One does not know where to look
for a solution of the difficulties which are springing up on all sides. Not the hast of
them is the dangerous Socialist movement, which I foretold some time ago, among the
working classes in the Northern cities, where we way yet hear the terrible cry of the
French Revolution re-echoed by the masses whom the war has plunged into poverty.
New York, Boston, Philadelphia may well grow pale at the thought. These mass
meetings which demand bread or work from the Government mean no good, but at present
they only indicate approaching danger rather than its actual presence ; and, meanwhile,
the expenditure of the Government is going on at the rate of one million two
hundred thousand (1,200,000) dollars a day! A rain of paper money is threatened."

The italics are ours. From this statement we can gather some idea of the
misery which prevails throughout the land at the present time, and of the reign
of terror which the future has in reserve for that unhappy people. In the same
letter he gives a brief but striking description of the spirit and sentiment which
animate the clergy and their flocks of the same denomination in the two sections
of the Union. He says —

" If the moneyed people holjl back, there can be no doubt the churches are coming to the
rescue ; and as the congregations melt away into the ranks, their pastors follow them
* a-colonelling.' Bishop and General Leonidas Polk, of the Southern army, has been
followed by a number of his clergy to the camp, and one of them lately wrote a meet
affecting letter to one of his reverend brethren in the North, in which he declared with
the unction of a Covenanter that he would smite hip and thigh the aforesaid reverend
brother, if he encountered him in the flesh on Southern soil. The religion of the South is
fervid. No Canaanite was ever in worse case in Israelitish hands than will the Black
Republican be who may find himself in the grip of good, God-fearing Georgians or Caro-
linians. There has been a blessing of flags and a cursing of enemies all over the States,
the like of which has never been seen since the time of the Crusades — let us say in a
general fashion."

All are involved in this cruel and unnatural war. Religious and irreligious,
pastor and flock, combatant and non-combatant, all shut their eyes to the conse-
quences, and only think how they can best accomplish the destruction of their
opponents. Truly has wisdom fled, and love ceased to find a dwelling in the
breasts of brutish men.

Digitized by Google

COBnBSPONTOBNCB.

581

Missouri, whose soil is drenched with the blood of Saints i-Missoun over
whose surface Prophets and Saints were hunted and driven with cruel and
fiendish Tiolence-has become the theatre of stirring events. Up to the latest
advices, there had been more fighting done within her borders than within those
of any other State. A severe battle had been fought on the 10th August at Dug
Spring, between the Northern and Southern forces, in which it is sported 800
of the former were killed, with their commanding General; and 2,000 of the
latter, with two of their Generals. This last item, however, is doubted, and the
nombers of killed may not be very accurate, though they are more likely to bo
underrated than otherwise. The principal city, St. Louis was making prepa-
rations for defence, and martial law had been proclaimed there Of course,
while this condition of things lasts, all business must be at a "tand^dl-
fearful retribution is being exacted from the wicked inhabitants of that poor
State for their base conduct towards an innocent and unresisting people , and _they.
with all the inhabitants of the land, are beginning to experience the fulfil-
me nt of the words of the servant of God. when he said that Uiey | should I yet
suffer from mobs and violence in their own midst, until they should be wasted
away.

C0BBESP0NDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Copenhagen, August 22, 1861 . ^

President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother,— This will inform you
that we reached Copenhagen in safety.
Our journey to Hull was quite pleasant,
where we arrived about 7 p.m., on the
16th, and were met at the station by
brother Joseph F. Smith, Parley P.
Pratt, and Charles Welsh, and were
conducted by them to the house of
meeting. The room was soon filled
with Saints, and we spent a pleasant
evening in giving counsel, and after-
wards were cheered by the voice of song.
About 11 p.m. they went home, and we
retired to bed to take the necessary
rest. On the 17th, after breakfast, we
secured our passage on the steamer
mien Macgregor, telegraphed to brother
Van Cott, and held a meeting in the
evening, after which we went on board
the steamer as she was to sail about
3 a m., on the 18th. We were off about
the appointed hour in the morning, and
were soon out at sea, with a fine breeae
Wowing, which made us sick all day.
The 19th found us still suffering some-
what from sea-sickness, and brother
Lyman's face considerably swollen from
Tomiting and the effects of the sun ; it
being so much more pleasanton deck

than in the cabin, that we were induced
to seek it, while the sun shone with
strength. About 10 a.m., we sighted
Ostend, with Haligoland to our left,
and about 3 p.m. we passed Cook's
Haven— a village at the mouth of the
Elbe, steamed up the river till 1 1 p.m.,
and dropped anchor to wait for the tide.
On the 20th we rose a little after day-
break, and found we were anchored in
the river at Hamburg. Having got a
boat, we went on shore and found
brother Van Cott on the landing-stage
waiting for us. We were all rejoiced
at meeting together, and went to the
English Hotel, where we put up— brother
Lyman feeling very uncomfortable from
his face continuing much swollen.
Having visited a few of the Saints in
Hamburg, who received us with much
kindness, we took rail at half-past
6 p.m. for Kiel, on the Baltic, where
we arrived about half-past 10 the same
evening, and went on board the mad
steamer starting for Kors6r. A little
after daylight on the 21st we found our-
selves at Korsdr, and at a quarter past 7
we took the cars for Copenhagen, where
we arrived at half-past 10, and reached
brother Van Oott's office at 11 a.m.

Brother Lyman's face still continues
swollen, and he is not very well, having
a little fever ; still we expect it will^oon

Digitized by VjOOg I

582

C0SBB8P0NDEMCB.

pass off. At five o'clock this afternoon
we start for Aalborg, in Jutland, where
we will hold Conferenee on Sunday next.
We found brother Van Cott in tolerable
good health and feeling firstrate. The
Saints that we have met with all seem
much rejoiced at seeing us. One of the
newspapers of this city published the
day of our arrival — a long piece about
the "Mormons," giving a description
of ourselves and brother Van Cott, and
speaking of us favourably ; upon the
whole, quite a good piece.

Everything is moving on well in this
tountry . My health is something better
than when I left. May the Lord our
God bless you And your household is
our prayer. Brother Van Cott ioins us
in kind love to yourself and family, with
all in the Office.

Charles C. Rich.
ENGLAND.

SOUTH DISTRICT.

Bristol, August C , 1861,
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— I have just finished
my tour through the counties of Corn-
wall, Devon, and Somerset, and am
now in Bristol, where I expect to re-
main for some time. Upon reading
my journal, I find I have travelled
2,400 miles since I came here to this
country in eight months, making 300
miles per month, or 75 miles every
week. One-third of that distance I
have walked ; the other part I travelled
by railway and steamboat, <&c. I have
held meetings and preached between
one and two hundred times, and
visited over six hundred different
families at their houses, and I have felt
blessed in doing so, because I have
been, by the help of God, a blessing to
others. Perhaps you may ask how
many I have baptized, with all this la-
bour. ^ My answer is, I don't do any
baptizing, for the following reasons— I
know that almost all persons that are
baptized feel somewhat more attached
to those that baptize them than to any
one else ; and I am anxious that the
Priesthood in every Conference should
have all the love, respect, and confidence
of the Saints over whom they preside
that they can get, in order that they
may do more good amongst them, and

that their counsels maybe more readily
received. I therefore recommend aU
those that apply to me to baptize them
to let the Elders that labour amoagst
them all the time baptize them . ( I have
not set any stakes, though, that I will
not baptize.) I pursue this course to
give the Elders all the influence I can ;
for I want to increase their power to do
good, and not take away from them.

I am much pleased with the help you
have sent me in the person of Elder
Warren S. Snow. For the present he
will labour in and around Bath and the
Wiltshire Conference.where he can direct
the energies of brothers King and Rhees
and others. I feel that, with the in*
creased help in this country, we shall
move things ahead; and I say, God
bless Zion and all those that love her,
or try to promote her interest in any
place. That such may obey and prize
the counsels of her leaders more than
fine gold, and the words of her delegates
to the nations more than choice silver ;
and that thousands of us may live to
see the day when her sons and daugh-
ters will be more precious and valued in
the eyes of the nations than rubies or
•precious stones, is the prayer of
Your brother in Christ,

G. Bjllliday.

ESSEX CONFERENCE.

Bishop's Stortford, Aug. 16, 1861 .

President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — New that my labours
are ended in this Conference, and I am
appointed to a new field of labour, I
have a desire to report briefly to you
my labours and experience with the
people here.

About five months ago I was released
from London to travel in this Con-
ference, and since thaftime I have got
acquainted with almost every Latter-
day Saint in it ; and I can truly say,
without any exaggeration, they are as
warm-hearted a people as I have ever
had the privilege to labour among.

It is true, there has been some little
misunderstanding in relation to certain
things ; but this I do not attribute to
any determined feeling on the part of
those who have misunderstood to op-
pose any measures that have been ad-
vised ; but more likely, I think, because
the instructions given in the Star have

Digitized by Google

COBRKSPONDENCE.

683

not been read and reflected upon as it
is necessary they should be. I believe,
however; there is a reformation taking
place in respect to this matter, as both
priests and people are beginning to
manifest a greater degree of interest in
seeking to drink into the spirit of these
instructions.

We have been doing about the best
we could to lay, the first principles of
the Gospel before the people, and warn-
ing them of the judgments to come. In
this we have made a little progress, al-
though not near so much as we could
wish for. Still, we are continuing to
baptize frequently ; and the rule seems
to be universal here as elsewhere
throughout the Mission, that those who
attend our meetings listen with respect-
ful attention.

The Saints here also long for their
deliverance ; but the depression in
trade, with the miserably small remu-
neration for labour, deprives them from
doing much for their own emigration.
Still they believe in the promises of
the Lord and his servants, and are
v therefore determined to hope and
struggle on, realizing that eventually
they will overcome and get to the home
of the Saints.

I have just completed a tour through
the Conference, in company with Presi-
dent George J. Taylor ; and, although
we have had long fatiguing journeys to
perform, we have' rejoicea very much
in our visits to the different Branches.
Yours truly in Christ,

John Lindsay.

SCOTLAND.
Glasgow, August 17th, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I have just returned
to this place, after a brief visit through
the Kilmarnock district, Glasgow Con-
ference, with brother Bobert Sands. We
left the Saints all feeling well. Every-
where they manifest a desire to abide
by the counsels of the Priesthood, and,
with but very few exceptions, are deter-
mined to work in unison.

I feel it is a time to be bold in the
discharge of our duties as servants of
God, at the same time not forgetting to
be humble before oar Father in heaven r
and obedient to those he has placed over
us. I cannot see why any man holding

the Priesthood can sit down at ease
when the signs of the times so visibly
betoken the dissolution of the " great
image" representing the governments
of men. Already the once United
States, or the extremities of the image,
are broken to pieces, and the residue
are arming to save themselves from dis-
solution : but we know that the end has
come, and great Babylon must fall.
4 Come out >f ber, my people, " saith the.
Lord ! that the Saints would give
heed to the "voice from heaven," and
make an effort to save themselves and
flee to Zion while the way is open ; for
so sure as the disobedient were shut
out from temporal salvation in the days
of Noah, so snail it be with the dis-
obedient in this generation. But how
many there are who tell me they are
doing the best they can, when in fact
they have never made the first effort.

Not long ago, a good brother told me
he had been in the Churoh twenty
years, and had all the time been doing
the best he could ; but as yet the Lord
Mad never blessed him with the means
to emigrate himself, wife, and child.
While he was telling me his troubles,
how much he had done for the Lord, and
how little the Lord had done for him,
he sat smoking all the time. At last
the pipe went out, and he paused to re-
light it, when I ventured to ask him
how long he had used tobacco, and
how much it cost him a week. Said he,
" I have smoked for over • twenty-five
years. I learned the habit before I came
into the Church, and I never have been
able to quit it yej. But my tobacco
is only a small item : it only costs me
sixpence a week. I never miss it."

Said I, " You know there are fifty-
two weeks in a year, and sixpence a
week would be twenty-six shillings.
Had you made the sacrifice of your to-
bacco when you entered the Church
twenty years ago, and laid away for
your emigration the sixpences you have
spent to gratify a false appetite, to day
you would have thirty-six pounds ! — i
sum adequate to have taken you, your
wife, and child to the frontiers; and
from there the Lord, by his servants, was
prepared to take you home to Zion.
Thus, you see, the Lord helps those who
help themselves."

There are a great many like the above,
who sit down and find fault with the

Digitized by

584

CORRESPONDENCE .

Lord and with his servants, bat never
make an effort to save themselves : at
the same time they have the means in
their power, but know it not.

I have good news from all parts of
my field of labour. -New members are
still being added to the Church, and
the Presidents of Conferences and Tra-
velling Elders are assiduously labouring
for the spread of the truth.

Give my kind love to Presidents
Lyman and Rich, also the brethren at
the Office, and accept the same your-
self, and believe me ever your triend
and brother,

David M. Stuart.

WALES.
Swansea, August 4, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — The work is rolling
ahead in the Welsh Mission, though not
with such rapidity as we are happy to
learn it does in other places upon the
Continent ; still we feel truly thankful
to our Heavenly Father for the success
tthat has attended the labours of the
Elders. During the last six months
200 persons have been added to the
Church by baptism, and prospects are
quite flattering that many more will
shortly be added to the number.

The Priesthood are united together,
and, with ourselves, are kept in active
exercise. We have little or no time to
spend in the market-places idle; but
occasionally we have an opportunity of
preaching the Gospel in them — also in
the public squares, streets, and high-
ways, where hundreds and thousands
congregate together, conducting them-
selves with the utmost decorum, and
paying- that attention and respect to the
preaching of the word whicn is ever
evinced by honest seekers after truth.
This abundantly proves that the Spirit
of the Almighty is being poured out upon
people, softening the hearts of even the
wicked for a season, that the Gospel
message of the last days may have free
course and be proclaimed unto the
hundreds of thousands of the misguided
and priest-ridden population of this
and other countries. The honest in heart
receive the truth, and the unbelieving
are left without excuse.

It is truly gratifying to see a spirit of
inquiry growing upon the people.
Never in our past experience have we

had such free access to the people as
now, or won so much of their faith and
confidence as at the present time. In
places where a few years ago the Elders
were not permitted to preach in the
open air, they have now all the liberty
that can consistently be asked for.
Market-squares, for the use of which
we formerly had to pay money as
ground-rent, are now offered to us as
the Gospel is unto them, without money
and witnout price.

In the town of Cardiff the brethren '
have of late been interrupted, on one or
two occasions, by parties from Bristol,
who, if they are not already, should be-
come members of the *' Anti-Mormon
Society," which claims to have an *
existence somewhere in that city, and
has become so notorious for riotous law-
breaking and mobocracy. Their gene-
ral carriage and address, as may natu-
rally be expected, is coarse and abrupt,
and their language vulgar and obscene.
If 44 out of the abundance of the heart
the mouth speaketh," their hearts must
be foul indeed, for they speak perverse
things, ridiculing the principles and
ordinances of the Gospel as though they
were fables, and are despisers of those
that seek to do them good. Contention
and discord they love, and not the peace-
able fruits of righteousness ; and our in-
structions to the brethren, when they
should be so unfortunate as to meet any
of them, is to obey* the Apostolic in-
junction — " From such turn away."
We are, however, happy to say that
they receive no encouragement from
the respectable inhabitants of the town,
the civil and municipal authorities being
ever anxious that all people should en-
joy, unmolested, the inalienable right
of worshipping God according to the
dictates of tneir own consciences, agree-
able with' the liberal provisions of the
Toleration Act, and tne constitutional
liberties therein granted unto every
loyal subject of the realm.

The Saints are feeling well, increasing
in faith, hope, and charity ; but, owing
to the great depression in trade and
commerce, especially the coal and iron
trade, consequent upon the civil war in
America, they cannot get sufficient em-
ployment; and their wages, when re-
ceived, is but a bare acknowledgement
for the labour they have performed,
Still they rejoice in the' truth, and are

Digitized by

8UMMABY.

585

willing of their little means to contri-
bute a part to assist in rolling on the
work of the last days, and are in faith
awaiting the time to come when they
shall be delivered from bondage and op-
pression and gather to Zion, there to

enjoy the liberties of the Gospel and the
commonwealth of the house of Israel.

With kind love to yourself and to
Presidents Lyman and Rich, I remain
your brother in the Gospel,

Thomas E. Jeremy.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — The atmospheric elements at
Naples appear to be as disturbed as those
of the political world. For years such a
season has not been known. The ther-
mometer lately stood at 28 degrees in the
shade. Since the end of May no rain has
fallen, and everything seems parched up.
The olives and the grapes will be likely to
suffer, as moisture is required to nil them.
At the same time the appearance of tjie at-
mosphere has been most peculiar. No
clouds ; but a thick mist has shrouded bay and
coast for upwards of a week, and the sun
gees down as red as blood. There was an
earthquake in Naples, and the same was
felt all round the coast.

Hungary. — A letter from Pesth states
that on the playbills of the 17th ult., it
was announced that the Austrian national
hymn would be sung on the eve of the birth-
day of the Emperor, and that the theatres
would be illuminated. No sooner were these
bills posted than they were torn down. At
the National Hungarian Theatre an express
order of the Governor was required in order
to have the fete announced, the first bills
issued having made no mention of it. The
second bills contained the announcement,
but the bills were so small as to be illegible.
There was, however, no demonstration. The
military alone were present during the sing-
ing of the hymn. The public did not go in
till it was over. A young man who refused
to take off his hat was arrested. The au-
thorities took the , greatest precautions on
the occasion, and soldiers with loaded
muskets stood behind the scene.

China. — The Calcutta journals have news
asserting that five cities in China and
Tartary have been made over to the Russians
by the Emperor of China. The Imperial

and rebel successes are alternate. A new
insurrection has broken out near Pekin.

America. — Another great battle has been
fought in the United States, and has resulted
in a second defeat of the Federal troops.
The scene of the conflict was near Spring-
field, in Missouri, a district which both par-
ties are extremely desirous to possess, on
account of the iron, copper, and lead mines
which abound in the locality. The Union
troops, commanded by General Lyon, at-
tacked the rebels early on the morning of
the 10th August ; and after a severe engage-
ment, in which General Lyon was killed
while heading a column of his men, Gen.
Siegel took the command, and retreated to
Roll a, a position situated south-west of
St. Louis, and where, at least for the pre-
sent, the Federal force may be considered
secure. The Confederates were commanded
by Generals M'Culloch and Price, both of
whom are reported to have been killed. The
Union force was estimated at 8,000 men,
and the loss at 800 killed and wounded.
The Confederate army consisted of 23,000
men, but their loss has not been ascertained.
Prince Napoleon has been visiting the Con-
federate camp at Manassas, where he was
received and entertained by Generals Beau-
regard and Johnston; but the object and
result of the journey have not been made
public. The reported battle near Leesburg
gradually assumes an air of plausibility. It
appears that seven hundred Union men had
forced the river near or opposite Leesburg ;
but during the night the river rose, and the
Confederate forces surrounded them. The
Union men lost, in killed and wounded, about
tjiree hundred, and fourteen hundred were
taken prisoners. The Confederate loss was
small.

Mushrooms (to Distinguish them from Toadstools). — Mushrooms which grow in
marshy, shady places, and in thick forests where the sun has do access, are in general to
be regarded as possessing dangerous qualities; their substance is softer, moister, and
more porous than that of mushrooms used for the table. They have likewise a more
disagreeable and dirty-looking appearance. Those which have a dusky hue, and change
colour when cut, or which have a gaudy, or many very distant colours, particularly if they
have been originally covered by skin or envelope, or which exhale a strong and unpleasant
odour, ought not to be eaten. Those which have short bulbous stalks, or fragments of
skin adhering to the siurface, or which grow rapidly and corrupt quickly, should also be
rejected.

Digitized by

586 VARIETIES. POETRY. ADDRESS.

VARIETIES.

A Fable. — A fly once perched on the horn of an ox, and after a time began with much
ceremony to apologize for the great liberty she had taken, fearing that her veighJ^had *
occasioned much inconvenience to the beast. " Make yourself easy on that head," quail
the ox ; " had you not told me, I really should not have known you were there."

A Cat Story. — " An old woman, who died a few years ago in Ireland, bad a nephew a
lawyer, to whom she left by will all she possessed. She happened to have a favourite cat,
who never left her, and even remained by the corpse after her death. After the will was
read in the adjoining room, on opening the door the cat sprang at the lawyer, seized him
by the throat, and was with difficulty prevented from strangling him. This man died
about eighteen months after this scene, and on his death-bed confessed thst he had mur-
dered his aunt to get possession of her money." — Miss Knight 1 s Autobiography.

Habits of Spiders. — The following curious fact is given on the authority of Mr
Spencer : — " Having placed a large full-grown spider on a cane planted upright in the
midst of a stream of water, he saw it descend the cane several times, and remount when
it had arrived at the surface of the water. Suddenly he lost sight of it. but in a few
minutes afterwards, to his great astonishment, perceived it quietly pursuing its way on
the other side of the stream. The spider having spun two threads along the cane, had cut
one .of them, which, carriQd by the wind, had become attached to some object on the bank,
and so served the spider as a bridge across the water. It is supposed that spiders, when
adult, always use similar means to cross water."

POETRY.

To social life a moral Upas thou.
Whoso baneful influence envenoms all
Who linger noar thy death-distilling shade;
While such as sip thy poison spread around
Their pestilential breathings through wide
Circumfo-ence. Thoa'rt like the fi?rc? hyena
In graveyards of the deid. when tearing up
Their ghastly tenants from their resting-place.
On which to trlnt its horrid appetite;
So thou dost feel nn memory of evil
Deeds and hnmm frailties, perhaps in deep
Contrition Wept, cancelled by penitence,
And by sweet charity consigned to the
Deep grave of dark oblivion. Yet not to
Pacts art thou confined ; but burning falsehoods,
From the hearts of evil ones, are thy supreme
Delight. A poisoned reservoir, from which
Thy hated floods are ever poured on those
Who love the truth— the holy and the pure ;
Thus dealing death to all within thy reach.
And e'en the breast that nurtures thee is like
A man who takes a viper to his heart
To nestle there, and take insidiously

Sheffield.

The citadel of life. Thou makest all

Who cherish thee, like carrion -eating vulture.

Whose fluid's so depraved, yields but a living

Death ; a plumage which is but a mockery,

And forms a putrid mavs ere life departs,"

Thy tendencies are to dissolve, uproot.

And scatter to t ie winds each social joy.

Thy seeming candour is hypocrisy,

Thrown as a covering o'er the vile contents

Entombed in thy dread charne! -house, but yet

Unable to conceal its rottenness

From sight of those who have the Spirit of the

Anointed One; who, though himself most pure,

Yet suffered most from thine envenomed shafts ;

Who died on Calvary's hill, to bring to light

A plan to save mankind from thee, and from

All evils else. And not ui til thou art

Dnveu from the earth, can man be fully blessed.

Then charity and peace will fill each heart ;

Then health and joy and confidence will beam

On every hand : yea. then, and not till then.

Will full salvation como.

W. Clkt.o.

Addrkss.— George J. Taylor, care of Air W. Webb, Church Street, Bishop's Stortford, Herts.
Erratum.— In page 567 of No. 35, last line but two, tor " instant" read ult

CONTENTS.

Svnopsis of a Disburse 571 Elders George Halli-l.iv and John-Lindsa\. —

Historv of Joseph Smith 577 Scotland : Letter from Elder David* M. Stn'art.

Editorial. — A Dreary Picture 579 —Wales : Letter from Elder Thomas E. Jeremy. 591

Correspon lence..— Scandinavia : Letter from Pre- Summary of News and Passing Events

sident Charles C. Rich -England : Letters from Varieties'.-Poetry.-Addrcss.-Erratnm 5*6

LIVERPOOL ■

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BV GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DE
ISLINGTON; AND ALL ]

Digitized by

THE XATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAE.

pUad with all JM; keuM 9tottkmntkeAc*twicttU>tk*»w^

No. 37, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, September 14, 1861. Price One Penny.

IS THE WORLD PROGRESSING ?

Every subject laid before mankind
for their consideration evokes contrary
opinions relative to its bearings or merits.
Some look upon it from one point of
view, others from a different one, and
each arrives at conclusions concerning
it and forms his opinions relative to it
from the aspect it presents to him,
standing on his own point of considera-
tion. It is like individuals looking from
different points of view upon a square
having every Bide coloured different
from the rest, each one seeing only the
colour of the side he looks upon, and
concluding that that is the colour of
the entire square, forgetting that others
have eyes to see with as well as himself,
and resting satisfied with the view he
has already obtained without taking the
trouble to walk round it and view it on
every side. The question whether the
world is progressing or retrograding; ,is
no exception to this general rule. By
the word world is not meant the planet
on which we reside, but the inhabitants
of it, and particularly that portion of
them who lay claim to the possession of
civilization, refinement, and enlighten-
ment.

That the world is progressing, scien-
tifically is generally conceded, though
the conception is entertained by some
that it is only passing through one of the
numerous cycles which they say it is des-
tined to pass through, resurrecting the

knowledge of former times — planning,
inventing, and designing like ages gone
by, to be, like them, submerged m semi-
barbarism, from which future genera-
tions will have to emerge slowly and
gradually, as the generations preceding
us have had to* emerge from the bar-
barism of tt>e dark ages and other like

Eeriods in theVhistory .of the world,
ome, in support of this, quote the say-
ing of Soloiriflfcr that " there is nothing
new under the sun;" others cite the
statement that " history repeats itself;"
while some, again, point out the scientific
triumphs of Archimedes and others,
eminent among the ancients, whose
store of knowledge has been lost to the
world, and whose abilities only live in
the faint traditions of the past, or in
meagre accounts handed down in the
scanty history of periods almost un-
known.

But whether mankind are progressing
morally and socially, has given rise to
more discussion and a more equal bal-
ance of disputants than the scientific
part of the question, more especially
when comparing the present with a
few generations past. Statistics hare
been dug out ot mouldy blue-books
hunted up from every available source,
and bandied hither and thitber with a
fierceness and. bitterness which argued
more of a love of display and desire frr
opinion to triumph than a wish for facts

Digitized by

588

IS THE WOBLD FBOGBBSSING ?

to be correctly understood, and truth
honestly disseminated. On one hand,
the vast number of criminals executed
in former days, compared with the few
who now pay the penalty of their crimes
with their lives, added to the fact of
the population being so greatly in-
creased at the present time, is cited in
support of the gratifying social and
moral progression which the inhabitants
of these lands, in particular, have made ;
while, on the other hand, it is justly ob-
served that a greater leniency is mani-
fested by laws and legislators now than
formerly towards the lesser degrees of
crime ; and that crimes which a century
ago would have been visited with death
are now considered sufficiently punished
by a few years' imprisonment ; added to
the fact that jails and penal establish-
ments have increased proportionately
with the population; and it is said that
an equal, if not greater, percentage of
crime is now actually existing among the
people than the executive of this land
ever had to deal with before. Hence
it is concluded that virtually there is a
marked retrocession in the moral tone
of society at large.

These arguments apply more espe-
cially to England ; but as she is admit-
tedly one of the leading nations in socio-
logy, morality, and enlightenment, she
may well stand as a type for the rest.

It is a fact that a people's religion
has much to do with their moral condi-
tion. If that religion has power to lay
hold upon their minds and affections,
and teaches them to obtain the consum-
mation of their desires, and to enjoy
happiness here and hereafter, they must
practise principles of purity, virtue,
blamelessness, and justice, doing unto
others as they would wish to be dealt
with themselves under like circum-
stances ; they will strive to emulate each
other in the practice of these principles,
and seek to purify themselves Defore the
God of their worship, from a selfish
motive, if from no other, that they
might possess themselves of the bless-
ings they seek after and desire. But if
that religion was powerless to act upon
their hearts and minds, and incapable
of satisfying their constitutional re-
quirements, or taught them a sickly
belief, enervating their desires, and
virtually destroying their motive for
doing good, the consequences would be

in conformity with the debilitating faith
they received and the religion they
professed.

Institutions and societies for the dis-
semination of the so-called Gospel have
multiplied with even greater rapidity
than the population. Ministers and
public teachers have increased so fast,
that the church establishment of Eng-
land, with its many millions sterling
yearly, has among its church officers
hundreds starving on a pittance of forty
and fifty pounds per annum ; and this
increase of religious teachers has not
been confined to this society alone; yet
the moral condition of the people does
not seem bettered by their labours among I
them.

It is true that if the fat salaries
of the Bishops, pluralists, and other dig-
nitaries of the Church of England, were
fairly divided among her ministers,
there would not be that want and misery
found among the curates which exists ;
but the fact remains the same, that with
these multiplied teachers labouring as
assiduously as they say they do, the
condition of the people admits of dis-
cussion as to whether they are pro-
gressing or retrograding morally and
socially. And this fact is a most telling
one against the religion they teach ; for
if it was powerful enough to act directfy
upon the thoughts and actions of its
professors, and comprehensive enough to
meet their growing wants, considering
the zeal with which .it has been pro-
claimed, it would have raised the people
to such a condition that their progres-
sion would not, could not, have been a
matter for doubt, nor a subject for con-
troversy.

Other countries cannot claim exemp-
tion from* this fact any more than this
one; and the actual condition of tU
nations professing Christianity in to
various forms being so nearly aKke
in this respect, forces an applica-
tion of the arguments to all whieh
apply to one. The Roman Catholic is
taught that he can obtain absolution
for his sins at the confessional from 4
being like himself, and that by certain
acts of devotion and penance he osn
secure an immunity from the commis-
sion of actual sins. The Protestant tf
taught that he has only to believe on
the Lord Jesus Christ, and the gates ot
heaven stand open to receive him into*

Digitized by

IS THE WORLD PROGRESSING ?

glorified eternity. He may sin openly
or in secret — he may violate every law,
human and divine ; yet if he only looks
in faith to a crucified Jesus, he is told
that his salvation, is secured.

Where is the motive in either of these
faiths which would prompt men to live
righteously before God P True, a life
of holiness may be inculcated ; but if
that holiness is unattainable, as is often
proclaimed, or if salvation can be con-
summated independent of it, as both
systems teach, all such inculcations are
virtually stultified. Why should hu-
manity strive to be holy and pure, if it
can gain the same salvation and exalta-
tion, living in corruption and wicked-
ness, that it would by practising godli-
ness P Why should the liar cease to
lie, the thief to steal, the drunkard
leave his poisoned cup, and the adulterer
his corrupting practices, as far as salva-
tion is concerned, if they can gain a
eeat in the kingdom of glory with those
who crucify the lusts of the flesh, and
battle with the infirmities and weak-
nesses within them P Why even should
tb« murderer cast aside his bloody pur-
pose, and fling the assassin's weapon
from him, if his premature and forcible
death will but waft him the sooner to
the mansions of eternal bliss through
simply believing, or through absolution
obtained in any other manner P Where
is the incentive for man to do right P
la it to be found in his own constitu-
tional organisation P If so, why tempt
him te rebel against that organization,
by inculcating a religion which seeks
to abase him, and holds out inducements
for degradation, to make the merit of
salvation reflect the more honour upon
Hoe author of that salvation P Of a
surety the incentive is not found in the
religion itself ; and the God of nature,
the God of truth, and of the Bible, who
displays his love for the holy, the beau-
tiful, the good, and the pure, in the
boundless treasures of a variegated and
blooming creation, would not wish
mankind to descend so low — become so
degraded— that he might elevate such
oorruption to a place with himself in
ineffable and inappreciable bliss.

But if it is a matter of discussion
whether man is progressing morally and
socially or not, his progress intellectually
is beyond a doubt. Granting that every
*ge (uaims for itself the honour of a

589

superiority over every preceding age, in
some respects, if not in all, whether
that assumption be correct or otherwise,
there is no justifiable reason for suppos-
ing that the present one does not rank
high in intellectual development. True,
there may be a doubt whether minds
of as gigantic proportions rule in the
realms of literature and statesmanship
now as prior ages have beheld ; but it is
an indisputable fact that there is a
marked intellectual improvement among
the masses — that society stands far in
advance now of where it stood, say, a
century ago.

The development of education has
placed the means of intellectual im-
provement at the disposal of millions
who have to an extent availed them-
selves of the opportunities thus afforded
them, and who would otherwise have
been comparatively in a condition of
mental barbarism ; and the result has
been a diffusion of information among
tbem conducive to their mental pro-
gress. Literary efforts are called into
requisition to an extent perhaps never
dreamed of by preceding generations ;
and the press, daily becoming freer and
more unshackled, acts like a mighty
lever upon the masses. Hence, though
many of its effusions have a question-
able and deleterious tendency, the
amount of useful and varied informa-
tion supplied to meet the increased de-
mand bears indubitable testimony to
the mental development of the people ;
and the fact stands out before us in
bold characters that humanity is pro-
gressing intellectually, and progressing «
rapidly. Yet the religion of the people
is not the cause of this progress. If
it has failed in advancing man socially
and morally — its peculiar and declared
mission — it is not to be expected that
it would aid, much less be the cause of,
his intellectual development. Instead
of this, the very opposite has been the
case. It has stood in the way of man's
progress continually ; and not until it
nas been compelled, by the force of
positive science, has it yielded ground.
Galileo was imprisoned for advocating
the Copemican theory of the planetary
motions, as well as some other scientific
truths since plainly established ; im-
prisoned, too, by the highest Christian
authority then recognised among men —
a Papal head, and a college of Cardinals.

Digitized by

590

IS THE WORLD

PB0OEE88ING ?

Slowly, but surely, the truth worked its
way through continued opposition, till,
early in the present century, a bull was
quietly issued from the Vatican ad-
mitting the truth for which Galileo
Buffered and sinned. Geology has
fought its way, gaining its triumphs
inch by inch, until it has indisputably
proved that this earth was formed more
than six thousand years ago, and was
more than six natural days of twenty-
four hours each in being made, in the
teeth of learned divines who bitterly
opposed its revelations. So with every
truth which has apparently conflicted
with isolated portions of the Bible.
The result of this is, that religion, so-
called, instead of standing in the van-
guard of man's progress nobly and
continually, has been placed as a bar-
rier in his way ; and, when defeated,
has taken up a creeping movement in
the rear, until, instead of being looked
upon with reverence, and its inculca-
tions respected, it is treated with po-
sitive contempt. It may be urged that
it is not religion that is at fault, (and
by religion is understood modern
Christianity,) but men who assume to
be the expounders of that religion.
Admitting this, why do men dare to
profess a knowledge of that of which
they are practically ignorant P Why
arrogate to themselves the honour of
inculcating a faith which, they say, is
capable of meeting man's requirements,
but which virtually is impotent to edu-
cate and elevate humanity, or accom-
plish the holy mission of regenerating
and saving the world ? But the reli-
gion is at fault. The interpretation of
the priests is the religion of the people,
80 long as they recognize the priests as
intelligent teachers, and profess a faith
in the religion they teach. Hence,
when the religion of the teachers has
failed to meet man's intellectual de-
velopments, he virtually becomes in-
fidel, having no better presented to him
by those whom he pays and recognises
as religious instructors.

How many among the great masses
of professing Christians actually believe
one-tenth of the direct principles taught
by modern priests P How many of them
really believe in doctrines which every
reasoning power they possess, and the
natural sense with which Jehovah has
endowed them, rebel against, and which
their every -day lives declare their

infidelity to P Still, their acknowledged
religious instructors teach them, because
they are ignorant of the truth— there-
fore incapable of teaching it to men;
and men listen, but da not believe, prac-
tically living infidels, but professedly
religious because religion is popular,
and acting on every-day hypocrisy, for
which an effete religion and its power-
less propagandists are responsible. The
result of afi this is that religion is losing
its hold upon mankind, because they
are growing away from it. Its teachers
have opposed, and continue to oppose,
every truth revealed in the works of
God or in his revelations ; hence it is
practically treated with contempt, while
its teachers are respected and honoured
because they are " intelligent men, ta-
lented men, and respectable members
of society," who, if they had anything
better as a religion to offer, would
speedily declare it ; and so much
accustomed is society to look with
contempt upon virtual religion, that
men occupying a social sphere less
elevated than modern priests are con-
demned, unheard, as impostors and
fanatics ; and the truths they bear,
though the holiest and best that ever
were revealed to a sin-fallen world,
are passed by unheeded. This nomi-
nal profession of religion and practical
infidelity has led to an increase of cor-
ruption and a corresponding social and
moral degradation. The intellectual
development noticed, instead of being
directed in a proper channel for the
good of humanity, is. perverted and
prostituted to the worst and most ini-
quitous purposes; and to turn this
advancing knowledge in a direction
where it can be usefully and nobly
employed, to guide man's progressive
power aright, to lead him in the paths
of purity and holiness, to teach him
principles commensurate with his grow-
ing requirements, and to develop all
the divinity within him, ever standing
in advance, and pointing the road to
excellence and bliss, while harmonizing
with every truth contained in the
boundless universe, is the work of true
religion. Such is the religion of heaven ;
such the religion for which the Saviour
lived and died, that man might be in
possession of its priceless principles;
and such the religion revealed by God
in these latter times for man's salvation
and exaltation.

Digitized by

HI8T0BT OP JOSEPH SMITH.

591

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued /row page 978.)

Friday, 17.— The State Convention
met in the Assembly Boom. I copy the
minutes : —

"Convention met according to appoint-
ment, and was organized by appointing
Gen. Uriah Brown to the chair, and Dr. F.
Merryweather, secretary.

Dr. G. W. Goforth presented the follow-
ing letter, and took his seat in the Conven-
tion. Several letters of the same character
were presented by other gentlemen, but we
have not room to insert them.

* Muscoutah, St. Clair Co., 111..

May 4th, 1844.

Mr. G. W. Goforth.

Sir,— At various meetings held in this
county, where I had the honour of attending,
and the interesting topic of the selection of
a suitable person for the high station of
President of the United States being at this
time the most important to Americans, and
with the names that are now before the
people, Joseph Smith of Nauvoois recognized
respectfully as a candidate, declarative in
the principles of Jeffersonianism, or Jeffer-
son democracy, free trade, and sailor's
rights, and the protection of person and
property.

A convention being about to be held in
the city of Nauvoo on the 17th of this month
(May), your name has been on every occasion
given as a delegate to said convention, and
through me the message to be imparted you,
asking you to represent our expressions in
the case.

Please say for us, as Americans, that we
will support Gen. Joseph Smith in prefer-
ence to any other man that has given, or
suffered his name to come before us as a
candidate. And at the great Baltimore
Convention, to be held on the 13th of July,
our delegation to said convention be author-
ised to proclaim for us submission to the
nominee as may be by them brought before
the people, in case of a failure to nominate
Joseph Smith (our choice), and unite ap-
probatively for his support.

Respectfully, Bir, this communication and
authority usward is forwarded you as your
Toucher at said convention, with our hearty
prayers for the success of him whose special
name is given in the important affairs.

Henry B. Jacobs,

Agent for the friends of Gen. J. Smith. 1

Mr. Clay's letter to General Joseph Smith
was then read by Mr. Phelps, and also Gene-
ral Joseph Smith's rejoinder, which was
applauded by three cheers.

It was moved and seconded that the

w jntlemen be appointed a com-
mittee to draft resolutions for the adoption
of this convention : — ■

Dr. G. W. Goforth, John Taylor, Wm.
W. Phelps, William Smith, and Lucan B.
Foster.

It was moved and seconded that the
correspondence of the Central Committee for
Government Reform of New York be read by
W. W. Phelps, also General Joseph Smith's
answer to the same.

'New York, April 20, 1844.
Joseph Smith, Esq.

Sir,— The subscribers, the Central Com-
mitte of the National Reform Association,
in accordance with a duty prescribed by
their constitution, respectfully solicit an ex-
pression of your views as a candidate for
public office, on a subject that, as they think,
vitally affects the rights and interests of
their constituents.

We see this singular condition of affairs,
that while wealth in our country is rapidly
accumulating, while internal improvements
of every description are fast increasing, and
while machinery has multiplied the power
of production to an immense extent, yet,
with all these national advantages, the
compensation for useful labour is getting
less and less.

We seek the cause of this anomaly, and
we trace it to the monopoly of the land,
which places labour at the mercy of capital.
We therefore desire to abolish the monopoly,
not by interfering with the conventional
rights of persons now in possession of the
land, but by arresting the further sale of all
lands not yet appropriated as private property,
and by allowing these lands hereafter to
be freely occupied by those who may choose
to settle on them.

We propose that the public lands here-
after shall not be owned, but occupied only,
the occupant having the right to sell or
otherwise dispose of improvements to any
one not in possession of other land ; so that,
by preventing any individual from becoming
possessed of more than a limited quantity,
every one may enjoy the right.

This measure, we think, would gradually
establish an equilibrium between the agri-
cultural and other useful occupations, that
would ensure to all full employment and fair
compensation for their labour, on the lands
now held as private property, and to each
individual on the public lands the right to
work for himself on his own premises, or
for another, at his option.

Digitized by VjOOQLC

592

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

An answer, as soon as convenient, will
much oblige your fellow-citizens,
John Windt,
Egbert S. Manning,
James Maxwell,
Lewis Masque bier,
Daniel Witter,
George H. Evans,
Ellis Smalley.'
'Nauvoo, 111., May 16th, 1844.
To John Windt, Egbert S. Manning, James
Maxwell, Lewis Masquerier, Daniel
Witter, George H. Evans, and Ellis
Smalley, Esqrs.
Gentlemen, —

Your communication of April 20th, solicit-
ing my views relative to the public lands, is
before me ; and I answer, that as soon as
the greater national evils could be remedied
by the consolidated efforts of a virtuous
people and the judicious legislation of wise
men, so that slavery could not occupy one-
half of the United States for speculation,
competition, prodigality, and fleshy capital,
and so that enormous salaries, stipends,
fees, perquisites, patronage, and the wages
of spiritual wickedness in * ermine and lace'
could not swallow up forty or fifty millions
of public revenue, I would use all honour-

able means to bring the wages of me-
chanics and farmers up, and the salaries of
public servants down, increase labour and
money by a judicious tariff, and advise the
people — who are only the sovereigns of the
Soul — to petition Congress to pass a uniform
land law ! that the air, the water, and the
land of the ' asylum of the oppressed 1 might
be free to free men !

With consideration of the highest regard
for unadulterated freedom, I have the honour
to be your obedient servant,

Joseph Smith.'

After which, the meeting adjourned for
one hour.

It was moved and seconded that the
following gentlemen be constituted a com-
mittee to appoint electors for this State :—

Dr. G. W. Goforth, E. Robinson, L. N.
Scovil, Peter Hawes, and John Reid.

It was moved and seconded that the
following gentlemen be constituted a central
committee of correspondence, having power
to increase their number : —

Dr. Willard Richards, Dr. J. M. Bernhiftf t
W. W. Phelps, and Lucian R. Foster.

The following delegates from the dflfti 1
ent States of the Union were then received
by vote : —

states.

Dr. G. W. Goforth,
J. Myers, Esq.,
J. Sene,
A. Badlock,
J. C. Wright,
L. White,
S. Brown,
W. B. Idle,
J. Browning,
W. W. Phelps,
W. Green,

E. Robinson,
J. Taylor,
H. Sherwood,

F. Merrvweather,
John Reid, Esq.,
E. Reece, Esq.,
L. R. Foster,

Dr. J. M. Bernhisel,

Hugh Herinshaw,

E. Thompson,

S. A. Perry,

Wm. Miller,

Mr. Dorian,

E. Swakhammer,

P. Bowen,

W. Smith,

J. H. Newton,

E. Hunter,

E. Woolley,

W. G. Ware,

Thos. Martin,

St. Clair,

Adams,

Quincy,

Joe Davis,

Scott,

Crawford,

Brown,

Sangaman,

Adams,

Hancock,

Chemung,

Buffalo,

New York city,

* do

West Chester,

do
Essex,
Livingston,
Kings,

New York city,
Chester,
Philadelphia,
do

WestChester,
Columbiana,
Cincinnati,
Hamilton,

Illinois,
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do

New York,
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do
do

Pennsylvania.

do
Ohio.

do
do

Digitized by

Google

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

593

NAMES.

COUNTIES.

STATES.

C. Brooks,

Lake,

Dusten Arne,

W. W. Dryer,

Lorain,

M. J. Coltrin,

Cuyahoga,

W. Vanausdell,

Green Briar,

... Virginia.

L. B. Lewis,

...

Massachusetts.

Dr. W. Richards,

Berkshire,

E. Dougherty,

Essex,

... New Jersey.

W. Richardson,

Burlington,

J. Horner,

Monmouth,

Thos. Atkins,

Burlington,

Capt. R. Jones,

New Orleans,

... Louisiana.

E. Ludington,

J. Harm an,

... , Monroe,

Mississippi.

Mr. Palman,

S. Gully,

Laurence,

E. M. Sanders,

... Delaware.

E. F. Sheets,

J. Hatch,

Alice,

... Vermont.

J. Houston,

Madison,

J. A. Mikesell,

... Missouri.

Col. Cowan,

Oxford,

... Maine.

M. Anderson,

Rutherford,

... Tennessee.

H. Stout,

Mercer,

Kentucky.

wen. G. Miller,

Madison,

Mr. Hunt,

Switzerland,

... Indiana.

A. Johnson,

Middletown,

... Connecticut.

L. N. Scovil,

Maryland.

Dr. L. Richards,

Providence,

...

... Rhode Island.

M. Wilber,

iicw xxampsairc.

Dr. Shenask,

Michigan.

Abr. Williams,

Georgia.

J. Haws,

Albana.

B. Alexander,

Union District,

... South Carolina.

T. Maccauslin,

Randolph,

... North do.

D. J. Putton,

Iowa.

Capt. Hathaway,

Arkansas.

It was moved,- seconded, and carried by
acclamation, that General Joseph Smith, of
Illinois, be the choice of this convention
for President of the United States.

It was moved, seconded, and carried by
acclamation, that Sidney Rigdon, Esq., of
Pennsylvania, be the choice of this Conven-
tion for Vice-President of the United States.

The nine following resolutions were then
adopted, the firth of which was carried by
acclamation.

1. Resolved, that from all the facts and
appearances that are now visible in the
United States, we believe that much
imbecility and fraud is practised by the offi-
cers of Government; and that to remedy
these evils it is highly necessary that a
virtuous people should arise iu the panoply
of their might, and with one heart and one
mind correct these abuses by electing wise
and honourable men to fill the various offices
of Government.

2. Resolved, that as union is power, the

permanency and continuance of our political
institutions depend upon the correction of
the abuses.

3. Resolved, that as all political parties
of the present day have degraded themselves
by adhering more or less to corrupt princi-

Sles and practices, by fomenting discord and
^ ivision among the people, being swallowed
in the vortex of party spirit and sectional
prejudices, until they have become insensible
to the welfare of the people and the general
good of the country; and knowing that
there are good men among all parties, in
whose bosoms burn the fire of pure patriot-
ism, we invite them, by the love of liberty,
by the sacred honour- of freemen, by the
patriotism of the illustrious fathers of our
freedom, by the glorious love of country,
and by the holy principles of '76, to come
over and help us to reform the Govern-
ment.

4. Resolved, that to redress all wrongs,
the Government of the United States, with

Digitized by VjOOglC

594

EDITORIAL.

the President at its Head, is as powerful in
its sphere as Jehovah is in his.

5. Resolved, that the better to carry out
the principles of liberty and equal rights,
Jeffersonian democracy, free trade, and
sailor's rights, and the protection of person
and property, we will support General
Joseph Smith, of Illinois, for the President of
the United States at the ensuing election.

6. Resolved, that we will support Sidney
Bigdon, Esq., of Pennsylvania, for the Vice-
Presidency.

7. Resolved, that we will hold a National
Convention at Baltimore on Saturday,
the 13th day of July.

8. Resolved, that we will call upon the
honest men of all parties in each State to
send their delegates to said convention.

9. Resolved, that all honest editors
throughout the United States are requested
to publish the above resolutions.

Resolved, that those gentlemen who
stand at the head of the list, who have gone
to the several States to take charge of our
political interests, be requested to use every
exertion to appoint electors in the several

(Tot*

electoral districts of the States which they
represent, and also to send delegates to the
Baltimore Convention.

Resolved, that Dr. Goforth and John
Reid, Esq., be requested to furnish a copy
of their speeches for publication.

Resolved, that the electors be instructed
to make stump speeches in their different
districts.

Resolved, that the thanks of this meeting
be given to Mr. Hancock for his patriotic
song.

It was moved and seconded that Orson
Hyde, H. C. Kimball, David S. Hollister,
Orson Pratt, and Lyman Wight represent
this convention at the convention to be
held in Baltimore on the 13th of July next.

Sidney Bigdon, Esq., then addressed the
meeting, and was succeeded by the following
gentlemen: — Gen. Joseph Smith, Dr. G.
W. Goforth, Lyman Wi^ht, W. W. Phelps,
John Taylor, Hyrum Smith, and John Held,
Esq.

It was moved, seconded, and carried, that
the thanks of this meeting be given to the
chairman and secretary.

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, September 14, 1861.

ANOTHER PLAN TO UPROOT THE GOSPEL— THE FOLLY OF
SUCH ATTEMPTS.

In an article lately published in a London paper, the editor informs the public
that, notwithstanding all the efforts which have been made to crush " Mormonism,"
the system still lives, and is in a thriving condition. After many years of
controversy and the publication of some hundreds of books and pamphlets, he
says they have been under the pleasing delusion that 44 Mormonism*' was at length
answered and driven from this country. But alas for such hopes ! the system
is not crushed ; it is alive and as strong and successful as ever. It is useless,
he thinks, for them to talk of this system as if intellect had no place in it, and
more than useless to bring charges against us without first testing them ; but he
recommends additional activity on the part of Christians, and says that another
course must be pursued with us to that adopted in past years.

Extraordinary as it may seem, the lessons of upwards of thirty years have been
of but little avail in convincing mankind of the utter futility of opposing the work
of God. Men talk to-day as though they had but to make a slight change in
their mode of opposition, to be able to completely arrest its progress and effect
its overthrow. They entertained and advanced the same ideas nearly thirty
years ago. During the lapse of that period they have learned nothing from the
repeated failures of either themselves or others. To read the suggestions as to
the course to be taken to check the growth of the sy^ten^novf, and to read those

EDITORIAL.

595

given many years since, there would be but little difference perceived. They
talked hopefully then ; and, despite the numerous disappointments they have
met, they talk hopefully now. Past reverses and failures are not remembered,
or, if remembered, are only viewed as incentives in the taking of another course,
which, they imagine, will be better adapted to the accomplishment of the object.
The pertinacity with which men cling to the idea that some other course than
that which has just been tried would be effectual in bringing about the destruction
of the Gospel (or as they vulgarly call it, " Mormonism,") is only equalled by
their obstinacy in rejecting every evidence of its truth and continued growth and
development. Every imaginable course has been recommended in its turn.
Violence and outrage have had their devoted advocates, and they have had such
faith in the efficacy of such a course that innocent blood has been shed in
abundance, and innocent victims have been compelled to suffer every conceivable
wrong, having been mobbed, driven, and plundered of all they possessed and
thrust forth to perish. When this course has not succeeded according to
expectation, then some other course has had its advocates, who have imagined
that if it should be adhered to, it must infallibly succeed. And so it has been
from the commencement, one ceaseless stream of suggestions and plans — every one
of which, in the opinion of its originators and advocates, was to be the plan to
remedy the success and growth of the system which God has established. Every
failure of a plan, and every consequent change in the circumstances or position
of the system, has been followed by another plan especially recommended to suit
the exigencies of the altered condition of affairs. But this fertility of invention
in providing means for the destruction of the truth has been in vain. There is
no course that has been taken that has not proved the wrong one, and that has
not disappointed its advocates by producing results directly opposite to those
which have been expected. But is the world satisfied with these P No, it
seems not. There is still another course to be tried ; and, in the opinion of its
originator, the London editor, it is to be successful. The past, so fruitful in 4
lessons to the observant, has not been profitable to him. He alludes to the
success of another course against the work of God as confidently as though there
never had been any but the one course, which he now proposes to change, taken
against it. He has failed to perceive that, out of the hosts who have come
forward, suggesting and putting into execution plans for the injury of this
system, there is not one that has escaped discomfiture and disgrace — there is not
one that has not fallen into disrepute and oblivion, — while the system they have
attempted to arrest has continued its progress, adding to its strength and
influence.

The course now recommended is for men who know what our system is, and
have learned from our works the doctrines there taught, to take upon themselves
the mission of uprooting it. It is to be an argumentative war, and to be waged
by those who know our principles. We need scarcely say that this is an old
plan. The Arch-Enemy of truth and his supporters had long since agreed that to
countenance and encourage apostacy from the truth would be an excellent
method of obtaining recruits to their service who would be valuable because of
their acquaintance with the system. Hence the interest they have ever taken in
apostates, and the wide publicity there has been given to acts of apostacy.
They have been dilated upon with delight as affording ground to anticipate that
a grand and successful assault might be made upon the citadel of truth. When-
ever there has been defection and treason of one or more of the garrison, they

596

EDITORIAL.

have been delighted, because they have hoped to learn from them the weak
points of the defence. Even the intelligence of the dissension of one or more
from the truth on the inside of the citadel has been a cause of comfort to them :
they have flattered themselves that they might thus be enabled to get in posses-
sion of it and destroy it. Great hopes have continually been based upon such
occurrences as these. But there has always been one difficulty in the way of the
success of this plan: the system established by the Lord is a progressive system;
it is not the same in every particular to-day as it was yesterday, nor
to-morrow as it is to-day. Even in that brief period it will have made advance-
ment and undergone a corresponding change. Unless, therefore, a man is con-
tinually associated with it and studying it, he is left far behind it, and is in-
oapable of comprehending it, and of course is incapable of explaining and
refuting its principles. This has been the case with all apostates. Their
notoriety and attractiveness have been only short-lived. They have strutted
their brief hour upon the stage, until they have been eclipsed and compelled to
fall back into obscurity by the appearance of others more recently dissevered
from the body, and whose news has had at least the novelty of freshness. How
many there have been in this condition ! While they continued to be the last of
the departures from the truth, their noise could be listened to and borne ; but no
sooner has this ceased to be than they have been left to sink into that miserable
obscurity which they most dreaded.

Being acquainted with the system and knowing the doctrines render men no
more capable of uprooting this work than they otherwise would be. Whatever
their knowledge may be, they are still helplessly deficient ; they cannot cope
with Omnipotence. If knowledge of the system would have insured success in
opposing it, then would the apostates who have taken this course been able to
accomplish something. They have been numerous Bright hopes have been
entertained of them by the enemies of truth at the time of their appearance,
* predictions of success have been hazarded, and their own hearts have beat high,
doubtless, in expectation of the glory they were going to achieve. Flattered and
befooled, they supposed they would be able to inflict irreparable injury npon the
work of God, and that under their blows it would soon crumble to pieces. What
madness ! Who can perceive, by the closest scrutiny, the slightest trace of injury in
the system against which their efforts have been directed P As well might they
have spent their time and strength in beating the air. They are the only ones
who have received injury from their own efforts. They themselves have' sunk
beneath their violence. The glare of their own folly, though keeping them in
sight for awhile, has not kept them from disappearing from view. Their
numbers have been legion ; but who now knows anything about them ?

If we are to advise our London contemporary, and all others similarly
actuated, we would suggest something more profitable than making attempts which
can only prove wretchedly vain against that work which God has said shall stand
and prevail.

Abstract op News from the Conferences. — Elder John Clark, writing from
Sheffield on the 30th ult., informs us that several have been lately added to the
Church there, and that there are others on the eve of baptism. He also says
that " those of the Saints who can do anything towards their emigration
are doing so with praiseworthy zeal," and that " many are looking forward to
next emigration season, when they fondly hope they will have the privilege of

Digitized by CjOOg IC

COBJtESPONDENCB.

697

leaving their native land" for Zion. Also that 44 the Priesthood, with few excep-
tions, are diligent in the discharge of their duties, and are on hand to do what is
required of them" in the work of the ministry.

Elder Barnett, writing from Carlisle on the 3rd instant, says — The Saints
here are growing wiser and better, drinking more sincerely into the virtue and
spirit of the holy Gosnel of Christ. They are manifesting a greater desire and
willingness to apply their means to the furtherance of God's kingdom upon the
earth. It is almost a universal feeling among the Saints here to»emigrate to the
mountain home of God's people ; and to this end they are making strenuous
exertions. The prophecy of Joseph Smith, delivered about twenty-nine years
ago, concerning the rebellion and war that should break out in South Carolina,
is almost the leading topic of discourse here among the people, and is creating
in the minds of many wonder and admiration. A few honest-hearted have
recently been baptized into the Church, who rejoice much in the new covenant
revealed. Indeed, prospects are cheering."

Elder Needham, writing from Faversham, Kent, Sept. 4th, says— " We have
baptized 12 since I wrote to you last month, and prospects are bright for a good
increase. We have very good attention in our out-door preaching ; a good in-
fluence seems to accompany the word, and in many places they manifest a spirit
of great kindness, and express themselves favourable to the truth, whilst in other
places they are far too quiet and indifferent."

CORRESPONDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Aalborg, Aug. 30, 1861.
Dear Brother George, —

I sit down to write you a note that
you may know of our welfare and
whereabouts. Since Brother Rich
wrote to you on the 22nd instant, my
health has become quite good, through
the blessing of God and the attention
of kind friends. Our journey thus far
has been prosperous, and free from
accident to mar our peace or ruffle the
fair surface of the stream of time as it
in its majesty has continued to flow
onward, bearing on its broad bosom all
connected with human existence to the
ever-swelling ocean of the past, thus de-
monstrating to the observing the muta-
bility and change to which all earthly
existences are subject. We had a warm
greeting from, and a pleasant meeting
with, our friends in Hull, with whom
we tarried until the evening of the 17th,
when we went on board the steamer
Helen Macgregor. The crowd of pas-
sengers rendering it impossible for us
to procure berths, our sleeping accomo-
dation only extended to the use of the
sofas in the cabin, the air of which was
more or less feculent and vitiated from
the breath of the passengers. This

forced us to pass the most of the 18th
on deck,; and the sun, shining brightly,
burned my face very badly, and pro-
duced a kind of erysipelas inflamma-
tion in it, of which I became sensible
on awaking next morning, when I was
scarcely able to see, and unavoidably
became the " observed of observers."
As the sea- sickness subsided, and the
fair portion of our fellow-passengers
came on deck, they seemed to regard
me in my misfortune as having suffered
from a. pugilistic encounter; and en~
quiringglances met me that seemed to
ask, " What can be the matter P " The
day passed quietly away, and night
brought its, demand for Sleep; but of
this I shared but little, on account of
the poor quality of our bed and the
condition of my face. At 3 a.m. I
made my way on deck. I was alone,
and for the moment enjoyed undis-
turbed the free flow of the current of
thought suggested by the scene around
me. I had not long contemplated the
broad expanse of water over whose
placid bosom we were being borne,
when the sun arose — a sight of gorgeous
beauty and grandeur, as, like a king
clad m his own regal habiliments, he
Sprang from his ocean rest and seemed
to shake the sea-spray from his vest-
Digitized by Google

598

C0BBE8P0NBBNCE.

merits of light, while he travelled up-
ward in his pathway of increasing
glory, to dispense his priceless blessings
on a waiting world. I sat alone, en-
joying the quiet bliss of the happy re-
verie induced by the -picture of golden
beauty and loveliness that covered the
ocean expanse, which in native grandeur
was spread around, until at every point
it met the bending arch of heaven's
dome, where the blue of the upper and
lower deeps seemed to meet in harmo-
nious greeting. As following in thought
the pathway of the king of day, I saw
that neither the ocean's broad expanse,
the mountain's rugged height, nor the
desert's trackless waste could stop or
change its onward journey to the dis-
tant west, where its joyous beams, im-

Earting Heaven's smile, would shed the
alo of its glory on that spot, dear above
all others to the wanderer — his home.
To the enchanting locality of this day-
dream of the affections my feelings wan-
dered ; and who shall say that the tribute
of memory is not due to that scene of
loveliness to which, from every point,
however remote, memory (quickened by
affection's warming impulses,) returns to
seek the richest treasures of its stores of
wealth. To thee, thou centre of present
expectations and all future joys — to thee,
my home, my feelings turn when all else
is cold and drear, to find within thy
sacred circle warm hearts that beat in
unison with mine, and feel alike with
the absent one the kindling impulses of
a deathless and ever-growing affection,
rendered ever pure by the truth, and
intelligent by its light! Such, fond
affection tells me, is the home of the
ocean-tossed wanderer ; and in thy light
is my glory, in thine my increase of

freatness, and in thine re centred the
lies of life in the present, and through
the vast and inteiminable future. Such
is the home, that with all its charms for
the present and its rich promise of
blessings for the future, lives and nestles
securely for me within thine embraces,
O. lovely Deseret ! Thy mountain fast-
nesses are its surroundings of strength,
and the light of God is thy glory and chief
joy ! Such,0 king of day, is my home in
the mountain heights of the West, which

must, in thy continuous journey ,-drink in
the light of thy smile, and be gilded
with the radiance of thy beams, and
quicken into increasing life under the
vivifying influence of tny smile. Then
speed thee on in thy pathway of light,
nor tarry in thy course ; and when thy
kindling rays shall deck with glory the
rugged summits of the towering moun-
tains that keep their ceaseless vigils
round my home, if thy light has an
utterance when thou lookest in upon die
sacred circle there, let thy presence tell
that thou hast visited the wanderer as
in silent reverie he thought of home,
and for the moment seemed to enjoy
communion with its happy and blest in-
mates — a wanderer no more — while from
affection's fountain he quaffed the joy
that feeds the soul; and as he seemed to
feel the wife's kiss of trusting love warm
on the cheek, while the pratfle of child-
hood's innocence, like heaven's sweet
music, appeared to rise around him, all
of the husband and the father was
awakened in the soul, and affection's
creations of a future of ineffable bliss
arose before the mind in all the fasci-
nating beauty of inimitable loveliness.
Such is the home of which, in deep re-
verie, I thought, as I watched with eager
interest the stately going forth of the
orb of day.

Others of the passengers soon were
astir ; and as the day opened pleasantly,
new life seemed imparted to our fellow-
travellers ; and ere it had passed we
were quietly steaming over the placid
waters of the Elbe. The morning of
the 20th found us in Hamburg, where
we were met by Elder John Van Cott.
We tarried in Hamburg until evening,
went by rail to Kiel, thence Korsor by
steamer, where we arrived on the morn-
ing of the 21st ; and at' 11 a. m. of the
same day we reached Copenhagen, where
I submitted myself to the treatment of
our kind brother Poulson, which I have
had no reason to regret, as my health is
now good.

With kind regards to yourself and
family and associates in the Office, in
which I am joined by all here, I subsoM
myself your brother in the Gospel,
Ahasa M. Lymas.

First Zoologist. — The first known systematic zoologist was John Kay, who published
his system in the year 1693.

Digitized by CjOOQ IC

8UMMABY.

599

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — News received from Naples an-
nounces that the brigands had been beaten
and dispersed at several points, and that
their numbers were sensibly diminishing.
There was every reason to hope that
brigandage would be shortly repressed in
Italy. On the 2nd instant, 50 Piedmontese
soldiers attacked Epitaffio, but were repulsed
by Papal gendarmes. A company of French
troops has occupied Epitaffio. An encounter
has taken place* between some Papal gen-
darmes and the Piedmontese troops on the
road between Orvieto and Balsena. The
latter suffered no loss.

Hungary. — An insurrectionary move-
ment has broken out among the Koumains
at Lugos. No details are yet known.

Poland. — Political agitation continues in
Russian Poland. Several arrests take place
daily at Warsaw and elsewhere; and
amongst the arrested are always many
priests. The inhabitants continue to assume
an attitude of passive resistance.

Turkey. — Advices from Ragusa state
that Omar Pasha has granted to the Mon-
tenegrins a truce to the 1st of September.
If at that period a definitive arrangement
has not been come to, hostilities will be re-
sumed. Meantime, the Turks continue to
receive reinforcements from Constantinople,
and are establishing an entrenched camp
at Klek.

Syria. — La Patrie announces that a
French naval division will continue to cruise
off the coast of Syria during the whole winter
for the protection of the Christians.

America.— The Northern State Depart-
ment has issued the following important
notification: — "Until further notice, no
person will be allowed to go abroad from a
port of the United States without a passport
-either from this department or countersigned
by the Secretary of State. Nor will any
person be allowed to land in the United
States without a passport from a Minister
or Consul of the United States ; or, if a
foreigner, from his own Qovernment,counter-
slgned by some Minister or Consul." A
formidable insurrection among the slaves m
Orange County is reported. The movement
was set on foot by a negro preacher ; but it
appears to have been suppressed. A letter
from the South asserts it has been deter-
mined, in the event of the Cotton States
being invaded by tf?e Northern army, to
apply the torch to the cotton in the gin
houses, "following the example of the
Russians, who consigned Moscow to the
flames rather than Napoleon should possess
himself of their property." The Washing-
ton correspondent of the New York Herald,
Aug. 19, says — " You were advised last

week that a movement of a rebel force from
the eastern shore of Virginia into Maryland
was on foot. This manoeuvre of the enemy
begins to assume formidable proportions
and considerable importance, it is ascer-
tained that instead of being intended merely
to arouse the rebels in Maryland and sus-
tain its disunion legislature in enforcing an
ordinance of secession, it is designed to co-
operate in the attack upon the city of Wash-
ington, by seizing the railroads and canals
and cutting off communication between
Philadelphia and Baltimore, simultaneously
with the attack on Washington by the forces
under Beauregard and Johnston. The plan
is well matured. The lower part of Dela-
ware is filled with rebels. There are com-
panies of rebels already organised and armed
there, as well as in the lower counties of the
eastern shore of Maryland. Rebels from
all the other parts of Maryland have been
recently flooding that section. Numbers
have come across in open boats from the
western short of Virginia to Eastville,
Northampton County, Virginia. Quantities
of arms and munitions of war have been
carried into the eastern shore of Virginia
from Philadelphia, either by the railroad'
running through Delaware to Salisbury,
Maryland, near the Virginia line, or by
vessels seaward, and landed on the coast of
the eastern shore of Virginia, convenient to
Drnmmondtown, Accomac County. It is
estimated that there is now in that section
of Virginia, Maryland, and Delaware, a
large force of rebels, partially armed
and equipped, and ready to be thrown
forward by way of the railroad from
Salisbury, upon the lines of the Phila-
delphia and Baltimore and Newcastle
and Frenchtown railroads, and the
Chesapeake and Delaware Canal, so as
effectually to cut off cummunication from
Philadelphia at the moment of greatest need,
and to aid another uprising of the rebels in
Baltimore and the secession counties of
Southern Maryland along the Potomac.
Washington would thus be completely begirt
with rebel forces ; and if compelled to sur-
render or stand a siege, it would take weeks
for a Union army to be concentrated on the
banks of the Susquehanna and force its way
through Maryland to the relief of the capital*
The execution of the eastern shore project
has been entrusted to General Tench Tilgh-
man and ex-Governor Enoch Louis Lowe,
of Maryland. They have been for weeks busy
in making their preparations, and are ready
to strike whenever the word is given. The
blow may be struck at any hour, and our army
on the Potomac completely cut off from rein-
forcements or supplies from the loyal states."

Digitized by

600

LI8T OF DEBTS. — THINGS 1TOBTH BEJCEMBKRINO.

LIST OF DEBTS DUE FOB BOOKS, STABS, Ac, BY TftE SEVERAL CONFERENCES,
AND OTHERS, FOB THE HALF-YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 186L

CONTBRKKCB.

AJfOUHT.

OOMFBRnCB.

AMOUIT.

Warwickshire
Newcastle-on-Tyne
Dublin
Durham
Herefordshire
Shropshire...
Worcestershire
Leicestershire
Nottingham
Carlisle
Belfast
Reading ...
Monmouthshire
Sheffield ...
Flintshire ...
Staffordshire
Hull

Bradford ...
Dundee

Channel Islands
Denbighshire
West Glamorgan
Manchester
Llanellv ...
Lands End-
Liverpool ...

S. L. Adams
W. Dallin ..,
R. Brown ..,
S. Hargraves
L. Bowen
W. Hopwood
W. Thurgood
A. Orme ..
J. S. Brown
H.W.Barnett
T. Crawley

G. Reed ...
R. Palmer...
J. Clark ...
E. Price ...
E. Cliff ...

C. Welch ...
S.H. B-Smith
W.S.Baxter
P.DelaMare

H. Evang ...
J. Griffiths...
W. H. Dame

D. M. Davies
W. H. Pitts
J. C. Graham

£ s. d.

3 10
313 2

3414
418 11
915
1 9

219 9

312 4

012 6§
019 6

73 14 4b
213 11

4 5 8
4 7

4
3 3

1 6
318

13 911
1 8

014

110 5

8 3

013 2*
3 2
8 2 4

Carried forward

,£19312 \\

Brot. fwd. ..

Norwich

Cheltenham

South

Wiltshire

East Glamorgan ..
Lincolnshire

Derbyshire

Cardiff

London

Pembrokeshire ..
Birmingham
Dorsetshire
Bedfordshire
Glasgow ...

Edinburgh

Preston

Southampton
Kent

R. Bentley
W. G. Smith
R. Hodgert
T. O. King..
T. W. Rees
J. Lindsay...
A. Nelson
G.G.Bywater
W.C. Staines
J. Gibbs ...
W. G. Mills
M. Barnes ...
J. Bull ...
R. Sands ...
W. Reid ...
T. Lies
E. Henriod
J. Needham

6
5
8*

£ s.
19312
5 1
3 9
213
111
517
31810
3 1 7*
413
2412 6
019 8
719 71
015 0;

5 910;
518 6

6 1
8 4
318 5*
312 6

Australian ...
Scandinavian
Cape of Good Hope
East India ...
San Francisco

Total

T. Ford ..
J. Van Cott
G. Ruck

306 13 7|
3 5
16 8 21
3 111
[105 6 6}

..£718 3 5*

♦*# The remittances for the month of June are not included in the present Money tist
and List of Debts, our books being closed before they came to hand; this will 9ekt
the indebtedness of some Conferences appear greater than it really is.

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

" All mt Eye and Betty Martin ." — This common slang expression is a vulgar
corruption of the commencing sentence of the Catholic form of prayer to St. Martin—
** O mihi beati Martin" &c.

" Elgin Marbles. 1 '— What are called the " Elgin Marbles" were the sculptures of the
Minerva, Parthenon, and other edifices of the A&ropolis (or upper city) of Athens, removed
by Lord Elgin at his own cost, and now the property of the British Museum.

" Gazette." — The word " gazette" was dented from the name of the small Venetian
coin which was the price of the first newspaper. The London Gazette was commenced at
Oxford on Nov. 7, 1665, the court then residing there on account of the plague.

" In Spite of his Teeth." — King John once demanded of a certain Jew ten thousand
marks, on refusal of which he ordered one of the Israelite's teeth to be drawn every day
until he should consent. The Jew lost seven, and then paid the required sum. Whence
the phrase, " In spite of his teeth."

Prevention op Fires. — Add an ounce of alum to the last water in which printed
dresses, bed curtains, or any linen clothes or articles are rinsed, and they will be rendered
uninflammable, or so slightly combustible that they would take fire very slowly, if at all,
and would not flame.

Portland Vase.— The Portland vase, though of Greek origin, was found about w
year 1560 in a sepulchre near Rome. It is now in the British Museum, and cost 1,000
guineas. The figures were formed by cutting away a crust of white opaque glass. l»
design is taken from the Eleusinian mysteries.

Alphabets of Nations.— The alphabets of different nations contain the fbllowjjg
number of letters respectively .—Italian, 30; Latin, 22; Hebrew, 22; French, 23;
^hreek, 24 ; English, 26 ; German, 26; Spanish, 27; Sclavonic, 27 ; Arabic, 28; Persian,
32 ; Russian, 41 ; Sanscrit, 52 j Chinese, 214.

Digitized by

THINGS WOBTH BBHEMBEBIXG.

601

Jack Ketch. — Jack Ketch was the real name of a hangman in the year 1663, which
afterwards became the appellation of his successors.

To Extinguish a Fire in a Chimney. — Throw some powdered brimstone on the fire
in the grate, or ignite some on the hob, and then put a board or something in the front
of the fireplace, to prevent the fumes descending into the room. The vapour of the
brimstone ascending the chimney will then effectually extinguish the soot on fire. Or, if
no sulphur be at hand, exclude the air from ascending the chimney, by boarding up the
front of the fireplace, and shutting all windows and outer doors.

How to Detect Alum in Bread. — Soak the bread in water, and to the water in
which it has been soaked add a little of the solution of muriate of lime, upon which, if
any alum be present, the liquid will be pervaded with milkiness ; but if the bread be pure,
the liquid will remain limpid. Sulphuric acid, having a stronger affinity for lime than
for the alumina and potass, forms alum ; it therefore quits those bodies to form sulphate
of lime with the lime of the test, which produces the milkiness.

" Legion." — A Roman " legion" consisted of 6,000 soldiers, divided into ten
" cohorts," and each " cohort" into six " centuries," with a " vexilum" or standard,
guarded by ten men : also attached to every legion was an " ala" or wing of 300 horse,
divided into ten "forms." The commander of the entire legion was called the
" prefectus;" of each cohort, a " tribune;" and of each century, a " centurion." The
standard was a silver eagle on the top of a spear.

How to Preserve Eggs Fresh. — Take an inch-board of convenient size, say a foot
wide, and two-and-a-half feet long, and bore it full of holes, each about an inch and a
half in diameter : a board of this size may have five dozen holes bored in it, for as many
eggs. Then nail strips of thin board two inches wide round the edges, to serve as a ledge.
Boards such as this may now be made to constitute the shelves of a cupboard in a cool
cellar. The only precaution necessary is to place the eggs, as fast as they are laid in these
holes, with the small end downwards, and they will keep for months perfectly fresh.

How Clergymen came to wear Black. — In the year 1524 Luther laid aside the
monk's costume, and henceforth dressed according to the fashion of the world. He
chose black clothes, and consequently that colour has become the fashion of the clergy.
His reason for choosing this colour was, the Elector of Saxony took an interest in hira,
and now and then sent him a piece of black cloth, being at that time the Court fashion,
and because Luther preferred it, his scholars thought it became them to wear the same
colour as their master. From that time black has been the colour mostly worn by the
clergy.

How to Discover Bad Silver Coins. — When coins, or other surfaces of silver, are
moistened with a little chromic acid, or with chromateof potash and sulphuric acid mingled,
a spot of reddish purple hue soon appears. The tint is due to the formation of bichromate
of silver. To ensure the appearance of this colour, silver must of course be present*
Hence base coins will not yield to it, nor will very poor silver coins develop the appearance.
Also, if a drop of water be put on the coin, and a piece of stick nitrate of silver {common
caustic) be well rubbed on the part so wet, the water will remain clear, if the coin is silver ;
if not, it will turn quite black.

Conic Sections.— Conic sections are the geometrical figures made by a plane cutting
a cone. According to the different positions of the cutting-plane arise five different
figures, or ' sections,' — namely, a triangle, when the cutting-plane passes through the
vertex of the cone and any part of the base ; a circle, when parallel to the base ; an
ellipse, when the cone is cut obliquely through both sides, or when the plane is inclined
tor the base in a less angle than the side of the cone is ; a parabola, when the cone is cut
by a plane parallel to the side, or when the cutting-plane and the side of the cone make
Bcjual angles with the base ; a hyperbola, when the cutting-plane makes a greater angle
with the base than the side of the cone makes.

Leech Barometer. — Take an eight-ounce phial, and put in it three gills of water, and
place in it a healthy leech, changing the water in summer once a week, and in winter
once in a fortnight. If the weather is to be fine, the leech will lie motionless at the
bottom of the glass, coiled together in a spiral form ; if rain may be expected, it will
creep up to the top, and remain there till the weather is settled ; if it is going to be windv,
it will move through its habitation with amazing swiftness, and seldom goes to rest till
it begins to blow hard ; if a remarkable storm of thunder and rain is to succeed, it will
lodge for some days before almost continually out of the water, and manifest great
uneasiness in violent throes and convulsive-like motions ; in frost, as in dear summer-
like weather, it wjllUe constantly at the bottom ; and in snow, as in rainy weather, it will
pitch its dwelling in the very mouth of the phial. The top should be covered over with a '
piece of muslin.

Digitized by

602

VARIETIES. MONEY LIST. POETRY. ADDRESS*

VARIETIES.

A sailor once visited a city where he said they " copper-bottomed the tops of
iheir houses with sheet lead. "

A boasting fellow took off his coat to show a terrible wound which he said he had
received a few years before. Not being able, however, to find the wound, he suddenly
remembered that it was his "brother Bill's arm."

A witness, on entering the box, had a Testament presented to him ; but he declined
to be sworn. Being asked his reasons for refusing, he naively replied — **TJ1 tell a lie
wi* ony mon i' England, but I'll not swear to it."

A six-year-older going into the village without leave, was shouted after by one of
the masters, who inquired where he was going. " I am going to bny a ha'porth of
nails, sir." " What for?" " For a ha'penny, sir," was the reply.

MONEY LIST—MARCH 12th TO JUNE 30th, 1861.

S. L. Adams
W. Dallin
R. Brown
8. Hargraves
L. Bowen
W. Hopwood
W. Thurgood
A. Orme
J. 8. Brown
H.W.Barnett
T. Crawley
G. Reed
R. Palmer
J. Clark
E. Price
E. Cliff

... £10 4 11*

... 4 18 10

... 9 9

... 6 2 0J

... 2 12 10

... 2 2*

... 5 14

... 8

... 10 3

... 2 8

... 14

... 5 13 10
.4 8 7

... 10 11 3

... 4

... 4 15 11

3
9

Carried forward, £78 3 1

Brot. fwd. £78

C.Welch ... 3

S. H. B, Smith 10

W. S. Baxter 3

P. De la Mare 2

Hugh Evans ...

J. Griffiths ... 1

W. H. Dame... 18

I>. M. Davies... 1

W. H. Pitts ... 2

J. C. Graham... 11

R. Bentley ... 10

W. G. Smith ... 9

R. Hodgert ... 6

T. O. King ... 4

T. W. Rees ... 3

13 11

2 1

8 5
18 10
18 4 <
11 H

4 KH

Carried forward, £168 4 1$

Brot. fwd.
J. Lindsay
A. Nelson
G. G. Bywater
W. C. Staines..
J. Gibbs
W.G.Mills ..
Mark Barnes ..

J. Bull

R. Sands
JPf.ReM
^Thomas Lies ..
E. Henriod ..
J. Needham ..

Total

£168 4

. 1 6

. 4 19
5 3

. 38 19

. 2 7

. 28 14

. 3 10

. 9 3

. 12

. 4

. 7 15

. 1

7 10|
4 10
3

£291 16 6

POETRY.

TO ZIGN.

Where snow-capt mountains rise
And glisten in' the noonday sun,
Like marble pillars, to the skies,
Or founts where crystal waters run ;
Where valleys decked in plenty's robe,
8eem worthy bowers of Gospel peace —
The sweetest valleys of the globe,
Where hallowed pleasures never cease,
I fly to seek a peaceful rest —
A home amid the truly blest

Dublin.

Where freedom's standard is unfurled.
Where virtue lights her holy shrine,
Where Zion, mistress of the world,
Is decked in holiness divine ;
Where Christ asserts his royal right,
And reigns his willing people o'er ;
Where truth, dispelling error's night,
Unfolds to all her priceless store,
I fly to seek a peaeefnl rest — ,
A home amid the truly blest.

Richard Smyth.

Addrbss.— John Lindsay, Mr. Pitts, Old Spittlsgate, Grantham, Lincolnshire,

CONTENTS.

•Is the World Progressing? 587

History of Joseph Smith p 591

Editorial.— Another Plan to Uproot the Gospel—

The Folly of such Attempts.— Abstract of News. 594
Correspondence.— Scandinavia : Letter from Pre-
sident Amasa M. Lyman 597

List of Debts $06

Things Worth Remembering 609

Summary of News and Passing Events. 685

Varieties*— Money List 69*

Poetry.— To Zion 60*

Address 69%

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE 0> CANNON, It, ISLJNOTON.
_ LONDON: ' '

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE OTREfcT, CROCB STREET
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. • : r ~ J *

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAB

"J. noise shall com* even to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations : ht will
plead with all flesh; ht wULejkte them that aretv eked to the sword, saith the Lord."— Jirimuh.

Ho. 38, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, September 21, 1881. Price One Penny.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD AT TIDEMAUSHOLM, DENMARK, AUGUST 25, 1861.

Present of the Presidency of the
European Mission — Amasa M. Lyman
and Charles C. Rich, of the Quorum of
the Twelve ; President of the Scandi-
navian Mission— J. Van Cott; P resident
of the District of Aalbof g ana'T easjfesel
— C. A. Madsen ; President of Vensyssel
Oonference — J. C. Weiby; President of
Aalborg Conference — L. Larsen ; Pre-
sident of Skeva Conference — Jesse N.
Smith ; A. Christensen, and a number of
other Travelling Elders.

The congregation consisted 500
Baints and 50 strangers. After singing
a hymn, a prayer was offered by Elder
C. Weiby, followed by another hymn ;
at the conclusion of which, Elder 0. A.
Madsen made a few preliminary re-
marks, and felt to congratulate the
"Saints that the day long expected had
~ dawned that they were permitted to as-
sociate with their beloved brethren
of the Presidency of the European
Mission.

President Charles C. Rich thenjrose and
eaid— " It is a source of great pleasure
to me to meet with the Saints in this
distant land, having come from afar to
^njoy the opportunity. I would still be
more glad if I could understand you,
and you Uuuorataod we. Although we
differ jn language in various countries,
ire are all oft one family, and sprang
from one parent. The human fabiily,

situated in different countries and lo-
calities, have various religions and
customs ; but it does not prove bene-
Hcial to them, or produce happiness
an^ salvation, because it is not accord-
ingi|pkihe laws and. .ordinances which
God has ordained and instituted for the
acquirement of it ; and there is flreat
division and discord among themSjop'-
cerning the true religion. The fiHK
mental reason of the division jM^Hfjft
tiplicity of misery is the warfie&UHHf
oi the children of men from th$ .olraB&L
standard of truth. It is owing Uf^Bf
absence of Prophets and kpc Siffi jw*
many centuries. The G ospel, whsp&tfcrf
proclaimed, is productive of salvation"
to all men without exception, by giving
heed to it and rendering obedience to
its mandates. The people in the
days of Noah could all have been
saved, had they made up their minds
to obey; likewise in other dispensa-
tions, as well as in this the last dispen-
sation."

He also spoke concerning the gather-
ing, and said — " We know that if this
house were going to fall, none would
want to stay here. God has revealed
that all kingdoms shall totter and fall,
and his kingdom that is now being
reared shall stand for ever. The Gospel
in our day is being proclaimed among
many nations andpeople. It will have its

604

MINUTES OP A CONFEBENCE.

due influence, and will accomplish what
it was sent for. It commenced its pro-
gress in America ; from that it went to
England, and from thence to other
lands. The men who proclaim it are
ordained, set apart, and qualified to re-
present true and correct principles,
whereby human beings can be happy,
obtain the Spirit of God, and gam
salvation. It has proved to be so to'
us all."

Elder A. Ohristensen translated
into Danish the discourse of President
Eich.

, President J. Van Cott then rose and
said (in Danish) — " I recommend Pre-
sident Rich's discourse for your con-
sideration, and you will not fail to profit
by it. I am happy to be able to testify
of the faithfulness of the servants of the
Lord to promulgate the principles of
salvation among the people. There is no
salvation and exaltation to be gained
without listening to their testimony,
and obeying God's commandments which
they bear. Jesus said — "No man
cometh to the Father but by me," &c,
and even so it is now. It is surprising
to see and consider the rapid progress
of the Gospel since its introduction into
these northern realms eleven years
ago. In it and through it we are blest.
Be faithful, true, and virtuous, and the
Lord will bless you, and his work will
roll onward. There is a good people
Here. God bless you, in the name of
Jesus ! Amen."

Eldei J. C. Weiby made a few re-
marks concerning the duties of the
Saints, and then proceeded to submit
the following motions to uphold the
authorities of the Church : —

Brigham Young, President of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, and Prophet, Seer, and Re-
velator ; Heber C. Kimball and Daniel
H. Wells, his Councillors ; the Twelve
Apostles, with Orson Hyde as President;
Amasa M. Lyman, Cfharles C. Rich,
and George Q. Cannon, Presidents of
the European Mission ; J. Van Cott,
President of the Scandinavian Mission ;
O. N. Liljenquist, Travelling Elder,
under bis direction, to assist the Con-
ferences; C. A. Madsen, President of
this District ; J. C. Weiby, President of
Vensyssel Conference. It was further
moved to uphold Elders Jesse N. Smith
and.Clough, and all the JBlders sent

here to labour. All were carried
unanimously.

Elder H. C. Hamen then said—" I
have realized that the promises of God
never fail, if we are faithful on our
part. The Lord is able to bless and
sustain all of us through the various
scenes of life. Let us strive to do his
will while we live. He said those who
obey the requirements of the Gospel
are the children of Abraham, and the
promises are to them without excep-
tion."

A hymn was then sung, and bene-
diction was given by Elder Jesse N.
Smith.

2.10 p.m.

After a hymn was sung, prayer was
offered by Elder C. A. Madsen. After
another hymn was sung,

President Amasa M. Lyman rose and
said — " Brethren and sisters, it affords
me great pleasure to be in your midst.
We have come here to bless you and
fulfil our duties in our extended fields of
labour. The subject I may advances
this afternoon must necessarily be*
translated through the medium of the
brethren, as probably the most of you.
do not understand the language we
speak. The Gospel we have embraced
will save and exalt human beings in
the celestial kingdom of God. It in-
cludes all that is good in heaven or
earth. It brings wealth, honour, glory*
and immortality, and redeemeth from
the danger, trouble, and sorrow that we
may meet with while treading the path
of life, and save us from the power of
Satan. It is even the summit of the
loftiest aspirations of human ambition.
In consideration of this, we must not be
inactive or barren. Let your light
shine before men, by living a pure, holy*
and virtuous life, and taking a course
that is calculated to create the elements
of life and happiness in and around
you. In your associations you must cul-
tivate a spirit of forbearance. Think not
that you are the only ones who are en-
titled to Heaven's favours and blessings
because you have become Saints ; neither
think, when you are baptized, there
is an inpenetrable wall between yon
and your neighbour, considering him
your bitter enemy. He may be an
honest man, and would do right if he
knew what you knew. There ore some

Digitized by

MINUTES OF A

persons in the Church who clo not act
as Saints ; and what is the difference
between an unbaptized sinner and one
"who has been baptized ? You have not
yet won the prize. Your eyes have been
opened to behold the glory and exalted
state the Gospel will lead you to. You
have been awakened from the slumbers
of death, and emerged from a long and
dreary night — been liberated from the
chains of error and superstition to
tbe liberty and happiness of the Gospel
of Christ, and obtained knowledge for
yourselves. Teople say a great deal
about the millennium and the time the
Devil shall be bound. If this congre-
gation could be united and overcome
all evil, the Devil is then bound as far
as you are concerned. I want the
Saints to learn while they tarry here,
and not leave it till after they get to
Zion, that they may be prepared for
faithfulness and good works, and be as
pillars in the temple of the Lord, and
not be moved to and fro. If you live
as Saints and seek to save men, culti-
yate a spirit of forbearance. It will
make a favourable impression on all
good men; it will burst asunder the
clouds of prejudice that are between us
and them, and be pleasant to them as
the brilliant rays of the sun. There are
yet many to be saved."

Elder A. Christensen translated Pre-
sident Lyman's discourse to the as-
sembly.

Elder C. A. Madsen then rose and said
— 11 It is natural for some of us to ima-
gine that there is an inpenetrable wall
between us and all men. This wall will
yet bo dissolved by many who will come
in possession of the light and the truth.
It is one thing to embrace the Gospel,
and another thing to live according to
its requirements. The world are look-
ing up to us as an example, and want
us to be representatives of Saints of
God, and it is all right it should be so.
They can find it nowhere else in the
world I am glad to be associated with
good Saints here. Let us improve con?

CONFEBENCE. * 605

tinually. If any one have sinned, let
him repent and do better."

Elder. Jesse N. Smith then "rose and
said (in Danish) — " This is a holiday
for us and the Saints to meet with our
brethren, and we have enjoyed a good
time together. "We read of the blessings
the ancients enjoyed when convened on a
similar occasion : we know now how to
appreciate them. The Gospel will save
people temporally as well as spiritually.
Let us ever be true and faithful, and
onr blessings will increase."

Elder H. C. Haysted then bore testi-
mony to the truth of the work, and its
power to save men. He spoke concern-
ing the great darkness that covers the
minds of the mass of the people. They
have nothing left to guide them.

Elder L. Ear sen, from Aalborg Con-
ference, spoke concerning the continual
progress of the work, and the power
that is felt among the Saints. The
power of God was manifested through
the administration of his servants.

Elder A. Christenseri then said — " It
is profitable for all men and women to
help to forward this great work. Their
reward is sure'. Those who oppose the
truth will see sorrow. Rash violence
against this kingdom and people will
bring men to their dark graves pre-
maturely."

Elder J. C. Weiby then said— "Let
the Saints continue to be faithful in the
fulfilment of their various duties, that
the work may continue to go onward.
The prospects are very bright in this
Conference. We have baptized 1 08 this
quarter. We have had a pleasant day
with our beloved brethren. These men
who have come to us in this land have
suffered much for the Gospel's sake,
and have great experience."

President Van Uott then made a few
remarks, and blessed the Saints in the
name of the Lord, on behalf of Presidents
Lyman and Rich.

After singing a hymn, benediction
was pronounced by President Van Cott.
(A. Christensen, Reporter.)

t Hints to Parents. — Do not allow a child to he perpetually attending to his bodily
sensations * or, at any rate, do not allow him to be perpetually making remarks about
them — the niceness of this dish, the ugliness of that object, that tbe day is too hot, the
walk too long, &c. With proper care, you may increase his hardihood without endangering
his health. Something may be done by direct discipline ; but more by making endurance
a point of honour with children ; otherwise they will indemnify themselves at the first
opportunity.

• Digitized by

Google

606

A HABD NUT.

A HARD NUT FOR THE CHURCH OF ENGLAND TO CRACK.

We extract the following article on Polygamy from a late number of the
London Weekly Dispatch, as the perusal of it may perhaps prove interesting to
our readers : —

A Hard Nut for the Church to Crack.
— It is almost a pity that Convocation has
adjourned without taking into consideration
a letter from Dr. Colenso, Bishop of Natal,
to the Archbishop of Canterbury. The
Right Rev. Prelate might fittingly have
taken counsel with his brethren on the very
difficult problem submitted by the Colonial
Bishop. Puseyism, Westerton Vestrydom,
alterations in the Liturgy, the 29th Canon,
Essays and Reviews themselves, about which
so much ingenuity and energy have been
called into action, are mere filberts compared
to the gigantic cocoa-nut which Dr. Colenso
has sent from Natal as a test of the power
of episcopal nutcrackers. It is shortly this —
" Shall tne church recognise polygamy as
a lawful and necessary institution P" Not
polygamy by British members of the
national church, gentle readers, who may
be alarmed by our abrupt way of stating
the case, but polygamy on the part of South
African Zulu Kaffirs and other semi-
savages, who, having been converted by the
missionaries, bring into the church with
them some half-dozen wives to each man.
Dr. Colenso finds himself in a difficulty.
He don't think the church will countenance
this excess of matrimonial bliss ; he does
not himself like to refuse the accession of
the convert and send him back to heathen-
dom ; and he cannot find in his heart to
order him to turn five of his six partners
out of doors. Besides, how 1 is he to settle
which is the lawful wife, and which are the
meie '* social arrangements" P If he were
to tell the newly-made Christian to retain
the wife he liked best, and dismiss the others,
then the youngest and most attractive would
most probably be preferred, and a great
wrong be done to the more matronly. If
the first wife be chosen to remain, the hus-
band would probably retain a liking for
those he is forced to turn out of doors, and
great might be the irregularity and scandal
which would follow. Altogether the ques-
tion is a difficult one, and all missionaries
have encountered it, though all have not
looked it so fairly in the face as Dr. Colenso.
The general plan has been to order the
»convert, on pain of all sorts of condemnation,
to keep his first wife, and turn the others
adrift ; and sometimes the consequences of
this imperative rule have not been very
satisfactory. We remember an apropos
story. A New Zealand chief proved him-
self a most willing and docile convert, and

the missionary was very proud of him. An
obstacle, however, stood in the way of his
being received as a church member — he
had two wives. The preacher insisted on
the iniquity of such a position, and told him
he must immediately get rid of the second.
The tatooed proselyte departed thoughtfully,
but returned a few days afterwards with a
beaming countenance. " I have got rid of
my second wife," said he. " Very good,"
said the missionary ; " what have you done
with herP" "Eat her," replied the grin-
ning savage. He had cut the casuistical
knot; but it is to be doubted whether his
mode of doing so was equally gratifying to
the over-zealous missionary. At any rate,
we do not find the incident recorded in the
Missionary Magazine. The Bishop of
Natal' proposes that the Colonial Church
shall recognize polygamy in those cases
in which it exists before conversion to Chris-
tianity. Of course he holds, as an orthodox
bishop should, that polygamy is " forbidden
by the spirit of Christianity, and is not in
accordance with the mind of the Creator
although he is forced to admit that " under
the old dispensation polygamy was practised
by eminently pious men, who, while con-
tinuing in that state were singularly blessed
of the Almighty, without a single word of
reproof or intimation of God's displeasure
being addressed to them." Convocation had
better settle the questions raised by this
curious allegation of divine inconsistency
at once. Dr. Colenso gets over it by sup-
posing that polygamy was " winked at in
the days of man s ignorance,? and there-
fore the Church may wink at it among the
Zulu Kaffirs. If the bishops at home accept
this reasoning — this acknowledgment of the
adaptation of divine truth to the capability
of man, at various epochs of history, and in
various stages of civilization, to receive it,
they can scarcely consider Dr. Temple's
"Education of the World" an heretical
essay. There is, however, an evidence of
sound sense and right feeling in Bishop
Colenso's statement of the case: — **ln
dealing with the case of a polygamist con-
vert from heathenism, we have to choose
between two evils. Either we must allow
nim to retain his wives and children, and
discharge his duties towards them, until it
pleases God himself in his providence to
interfere and release him from his obliga-
tions, or we must compel him to commit
an act or acts of cruel hardship and

Digitized by VjCJCHZiC

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

607

"wrong to others, and dismiss his wives
and children, perhaps, to rot and perish
in the abominations of heathenism ?' That
cannot be Christianity. A man, Zulu or
not, can scarcely be acceptable to the
Universal Father, who renounces his own
children. The Bishop thinks that the
Zulus derived their practice of polygamy
from Abraham himself, through their
Arab descent, and continues — an under
current of right feeling, as before, strangely
commingling with comically confused
notions of a distinction between religion
and Christianity, — * * considering that poly -
gamy was tolerated by the Almighty in the
case of so many good men of old, and that,
consequently, it is not sinful and wicked
in itself, and contrary to all religion,
though it is contrary to the spirit of
Christianity— whereas acts of injustice and
"wrong are positively sinful and wicked,
and contrary to religion itself, as well as
to the spirit of Christianity, I believe it to
"be the lesser evil of the two, and, indeed,
the only righteously possible course, to
allow a polygamist convert, whose wives
<lo not choose to leave him, to retain them,
with the understanding that he shall take
no more. " Perhaps the difficulty might
be met if the many- wived convert were
induced to support ms wives and children
(the latter to be esteemed legitimate), but
henceforth to- live as husband witl\ only
one. So the Christian law of marriage —
the only one which insures social happi-
ness and virtue — might be preserved, and
no essential injustice done. But some
strange questions are suggested. Suppose

a Salt Lake Mormon of British origin
were to see the error of his ways, and
wish to return to the bosom of the church ?
Shall we show him less favour than a
Zulu Kaffir ? Is he to retain his wives or
dismiss them? Dr. Colenso, perhaps,
can suggest the right course to be pursued
in such a case. Again, if polygamy is
not sinful and wicked in itself, and con-
trary to all religion, in South Africa, why
should it be in this country? If the
distinction be made, perhaps the Bishop
will seek the aid of the Geographical
Society to define spiritual latitudes of
prohibition. A very large proportion of
our fashionable world is quite as little
Christian in practice as the Kaffirs, and
should in all fairness enjoy the same privi-
leges. Mothers are complaining that
their daughters cannot find husoands.
It may be true that a great number of
eligible young men are shy of matrimony ;
but who knows how many Benedicts there
are so in love with wedded life that tl;ey
would gladly add to their stock of
blessings ? The renowned " Seven" startled
comfortable deans and vicars with their
notions on cosmogony and criticism ; but
nobody impugned their social morals.
Now, Bishop Colenso justifies a plurality
of wives ; and the laity, as well as the
clergy, may well be frightened. Imagine
a man being dragged before Sir Cresswell
Cresswell by four wives at once, posses-
sing half-a-dozen mothers-in-law, or order-
ing ' * caudle for three !" Really Convoca-
tion must look to it.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 594.)

The Convention was addressed in an
eloquent speech by Sidney Rigdon, Esq.,
showing the political dishonesty of both
Henry Clay and Martin Van Buren, and
stating his views, and the present con-
dition of the country.

Dr. Goforth rose and addressed the
Convention in the following eloquent
strain : —

* Mr. Chairman and Fellow-Citizens, —
As an American, a citizen of St. Clair
County, anp! of the State of Illinois, with
the deference ever acknowledged on occa-
sions like this, I feel the spirit of obedi-
ence that was required of one of old,
when he was bade to take off his shoes,
for he was walking on holy ground, and
that this was a holy cause.

Influenced by the distinguished honours
paid me on the 24th of April in the Con-

vention then here held, and the invitation
to associate on this occasion, I feel that
on occasions of this importance it com-
mands the rallying excuses of more than
a Bonapartean or Mortier desperation ;
that to have names now brought before
an American people that have for the last
fourteen years, or longer, been like the
foot-ball of the sportsman and the extra-
ordinary selected subjects of derision and
contumely, that new expressions are about
to be made that the people are about to
trace back the erroneous doings of a
nation, to weep and repent for male-
factors, to examine the old building that
in those days was founded by our fore-
fathers, and, for want of qualified tenants,
has become occasionally tinged with filth
and spurious matter; that its anticipated
solidity to the beating storm has ceded,

Digitized by

603

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

and its firmness in various ranges assumed
dubitable type.

The Jeflfersonian doctrines have been
forsaken, merit and qualification have
been abandoned, humbuggery and sarcasm
in their stead adopted, and modern Ameri-
can growth in the unhealthy tones of
vice, farce, non-sustenance of truth, and
non-valorous deeds in their stead, the
only objects for promotion captioned by
these expressions, to this august assembly.

In the character of a delegate from St.
Clair County, I say that reform, politically
as well as morally, claims the present
field ; that the many gubernative exercises
of the various Presidents since those days
that were honoured by a Washington, a
Jefferson, Madison, Monroe, and Jackson,
have been to Americans thorns, whose
irritability never cease, whose national
maligne depot has been indelible, and that
has cankered the lovely cement that ger-
minated in the days of the Revolution in
1776, and that were by our forefathers
fostered with hope of ameliorizing the
conditions of this and previous generations.

Unwilling as I may be to offer to my
nation the least attack of reproach, yet,
as publicity was given of a western con-
vention to take up the subject of a national
merit — by delegating and instructing dele-
gates, by the expression of a will to sub-
mit to the nomination of the Baltimore
Convention and covenant to support the
nominee — and with all the utterance of
our disapprobation of Martin Van Buren's
ever standing before the lovers of the
'"76" cause in any character that might
respect or recognize him as a portion of
material in the erection or construction of
this American micrososm, I on this occa-
sion stay the ceremony of exposition ; I
tumble for our once happy country, at
the threat of Van Buren s election again
by the Americans to the Presidency, and
thank God that the age of gray hairs will
to every American in these days say,
'Look ere you leap.' Since 1819 I have
risked an American's part for the susten
ance of democracy ; and I do assert, Jef-
.fersonianism, ever shaded by the pro-
mise of better times, while the Locker
was opened and the" Americans hope till
spill'd.

On this occasion, delegates hasten to
the Baltimore Convention, and like Ameri-
cans, we trust, will represent the cares of
a nation, and claim tne western people's
choice — open again, as in the 1 Declaration
of Independence, ' the assertion ' that all
men are created equal, that they are
endowed by their Creator with certain
unalienable rights ; that among these are
LIFE, LIBERTY, and the PURSUIT
OF HAPPINESS. That to secure these

rights governments are instituted among
men, deriving their just powers from the-
consent of the governed ; that whenever
any form of government becomes destruc-
tive of the ends, it is the right of the people
to alter or to abolish it, and to institute
a new government laying its foundation
on such principles, and organizing its
powers in such form, as to them shall
seem most likely to effect their safety
and happiness.'

* Light and transient causes' may be
by party opposition to be the movers for
this proposition of Reform. But with
one voice we will respond. No ! No ! ! No ! 1 1
For very many years agitating ceremonies
have roused from their slumber, and
caused the offspring of 4 1776' to look back
and rehearse the tales, remembering the
savage shriek, and calling up to horrible
vivincation the bloody banners of Britain,
when the unholy proffer was made for

* slavery or death,' when the cradle
was only a forest of uncertainty, and our
Mothers as in the hands of heaven's
King sustained to impart the voice of
patriotic perfection and excellence.

This day associates with our recollec-
tion much of the history of Americans ;
and, but for the want of time, it would be
rehearsed. This day sweetens recol-
lection with the privilege of a convention
to tell over the national grievances — the
omissions of official duty, and the usurpa-
tion of aristocratical power. This day
only whispers^the silly Lilliputian efforts
of Missouri, sanctioned by VAN BUREN,
BENTON, and BOGGS. This day, pub-
lished for days passed, has told the world
that to be free was our privilege, that to
renounce VAN BURENISM would be
healthy to Americans — that to diss auction
the deaf eared costumes of a White
Housed sccrpion was prudent, and to teU
the old veterans of 1776 that those rights
occupy our wills, and the spirits of our
fathers yet mingle in our blood and stimu-
late our actions, to nobly die defending
the covenant made by tne signers of the

* Declaration of Independence on the 4th.
dav of July, 1776.

Nail to the topmast the Flag with letters
of gold legible to all * Free tradb and

SAILORS' RIGHTS, PROTECTION OF PBRS01C
AND PROPERTY.'

Americans now begin to examine their
privileges, and like the skilled physician
examining a diseased heart, will thump
in proper character on its environs for a
flat cone — if flat, they'll say 'beware* —
if cone, 1 all's right' — the diseased heart
has been detected, and in its furious race
is hastening the exit of that aspirant,
who, while m its premonitory stage said,
< Your cause is a good one, but I cannot

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

609

afford you any assistance in your present
distressed condition and that man who
refused the hearing of the Mormon griev-
ances, when by a Y oung, a Steward, and
a Reynolds they were ottered for Congres-
sional action, (Benton, ) asserting that the
Missouri monocracy — the Bogg decree,
(the woman and babe destroyer,) and the
expatriating or exterminating feat from
Far West was not only just, but that he
was clad with proof— with Jegal justifica-
tion, and the Mormons merited all and
more than they had received of virulence
and brutality. If American jurisprudence
be on these decisions, and by the men
whom democracy sustained, the deeds of
valour which again will place them at
the head of our affair, the strands are
broken, the links have sprung, and the
anchor fangs refused to hold ; may we
now say that, in 1844, JOSEPH SMITH,
the proclaimer of Jefferson democracy, of
free trade, and sailors' rights, and pro-
tection of person and property, with us
stands first to the Baltimore Convention,
(and if his want of success in the nomina-
tion exists, instruct our delegates to say
Henry Clay,) and, like men, stand firm —
to a man vi voce speak out, and herald
the tidings north, south, east, and west,
admitting that

' None but mean spirits dread the face of care,

And none but cowards life's afflictions bear ;

All dastard spirits sink at distant war,

And tremble as it threatens from alar;

But, rich or poor, true minds preserve their weight,

And, if exalted or debased, are great.'— Crudtn."

" SYNOPSIS OF THE REMARKS OF HON*.
JOHN S. REID.

Mr. Chairman, —

1 cannot leave this subject and do jus-
tice to m/owa feelings and the character
of Gen. Smith, without giving a short
history of the first persecution that came
upon him in the counties of Chenango and
Broome, in the State of New York, com-
menced by that class of people calling
themselves Christians.

The first acquaintance I had with Gen.
Smith was about the year 1823. He came
into my neighbourhood, being then about
eighteen years of age, and resided there
two years ; during which time I became
intimately acquainted with him. I do
know that his character was irreproach-
able ; that he was well known for truth
and uprightness ; that he moved in the
first circles of community, and he was
often spoken of as a young man of intelli-
gence and good morals, and possessing a
mind su/ceptible of the highest intellectual
attainments.

I early discovered that his mind was
constantly in search of truth, expressing
an anxious desire to know the will of

God concerning his children here below,
often speaking of those things which
professed Christians believe in. I have
often observed to my best informed friends
(those that were free from suj>erstition
and bigotry,) that I thought Joseph was
predestinated by his God from all eternity
to be an instrument in the hands of the
great Dispenser of all pood to do a great
work. What it was I knew not. After
living in that neighbourhood about three
years, enjoying the good feelings of his
acquaintances as a worthy youth, he told
his particular friends that he had had a
revelation from God to £0 to the west
about eighty miles to his father's, in
which neighbourhood he should find hid
in the earth an old history, written on
golden plates, which would give great
fight and knowledge concerning the will
of God towards his people in this genera-
tion, unfolding the destiny of all nations,
kindreds, and tongues. He said that he
distinctly heard ,the voice of him that
spake. Joseph Knight, one of the fathers
of your church, a worthy man, and my
intimate friend, went with him. When
I reflect upon our former friendship, Mr.
Chairman, and upon the scenes that he
has passed through in consequence of mal-
administration, mobocracy, and cruelty,
I feel to lift up my voice to high Heaven,
and pray God to bless the aged veteran,
and that his silver locks may go down to
the grave in peace like a shock of corn
fully ripe. In a few days his friends
returned with the glad news that Joseph
had found the plates, and had gone down
to his father-in-law's for the purpose of
translating them. I believe he remained
there until he finished the translation.
4iter the book was published, he came to
live in the neighbourhood of Father
Knight's, about four miles from me, and
began to preach the Gospel ; and many
were pricked in their hearts, believed,
and were baptized in the name of the
L*>rd Jesus. He soon formed a church at
Colesville ; his meetings were numerously
attended, and the eyes of all people were
upon him with astonishmeut Oh, Mr.
Chairman, the world was turned upside
down at once, and the Devil — always
ready to assist and help along in all diffi-
culties that arise among men — personified
in some of the religionists, began to prick
up his ears, and jump, and kick, and run
about, like Jim Crow, calling for rotten
eggs to help in the wake. You would have
thought, sir, that Gog and Magog were
let loose on the young man. »He called
upon the world's people (as they are
called), but got no help ; he then flew
about in the sectarian churches, like
lightning, and they immediately came to
Digitized by CjOOQIC

610

EDITOBIAL.

his aid, and uniting their efforts, roared
asrainst him like the thunders of Mount
Sinai. When those fiery bigots were let
loose, they united in pouring the red hot
vials of their wrath upon his head. Their
cry of * False prophet ! false prophet!!'
was sounded from village to village, and
every foul epithet that malice and wicked
ingenuity could invent were heaped upon
him. Yes, sir ; the same spirit that influ-
enced the Presbyterians of Massachusetts
about one hundred and fifty years ago, in
their persecution of the Quakers, when
they first began to preach their doctrines
in that State, was fully manifested by
those religious bigots, who were afraid, if
they let them alone, their doctrines would
come to naught. What was the result of
the persecution in Massachusetts ? Why,
sir, warrants were made out by those

churches having authority, and the Qua-
kers were tried for heresy. 1 But what
was the result of those trials? The
sentence of death was passed upon the
Quakers for heresy by those religious
fanatics, and three of them were hanged,
by the neck on Bloody Hill, in Boston, to-
make expiation for that unpardonable
crime. * Tell it not, in Gath,' nor publish,
it on the tops of the mouutains in this
boasted land of freedom, that the Puritans
of New England, who had fled from the
Old World in consequence of religious in-
tolerance, that they might enjoy the
sweets of liberty, so soon became persecu-
tors themselves, and shed innocent blood,
which still cries aloud from the dust for
vengeance upon their heads. Let shame
cover our faces when we mention the
name of freedom in our grand republic.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, September 21, 1861.

PEACE AND WAR— CONTRAST BETWEEN 1851 AND 1861.

Most of our readers, doubtless, will remember the hopes that were entertained
about ten years ago by Christendom generally respecting the ushering in of an
era of peace. At that time, war was considered an unmitigated evil — an evil so>
odious, so unworthy of the spirit and genius of the age, so antagonistic to the
principles of the common Christianity of Europe, that no nation having any
claims to civilization would, in the opinion of a certain class of theorists, think
of resorting to it. It was then thought that, if proper measures were adopted, it
might be banished entirely from the earth, or at least from that portion of it
which claimed to be civilized. A Peace Congress, composed of distinguished
men from the United States and the various nations of Europe — men famous
as philanthropists, philosophers, and statesmen — held its meetings for the purpose
of arranging a plan which would be acceptable to Christendom, and would render
any further appeals to the dread arbitrament of the sword altogether unnecessary.
Peacefurarbitration was the proposed substitute for war. Whenever difficulties
should occur between nations, instead of marshalling armies and leaving the
settlement to be made after a trial of arms • and the expenditure of an incal-
culable amount of blood and treasure, as had been the case up to that time, they
advocated the assemblage of an International Congress, to whose arbitrament
the question should be left. Their arguments in favour of the method of settling
difficulties were unanswerable. The truth and cogency of their propositions were
admitted on all hands. The experience of all history proved and sustained them ;
and the peacefully-inclined throughout Christendom sanguinely hoped that the

Digitized by

EDITOBIAL. 611

day had at last dawned when swords would be beaten into ploughshares, and
spears into pruninghooks, and nations oease to learn war any more. So deeply
had this idea become rooted in the popular mind in this country, that ten years
ago it was proposed to exclude a model gun from the Qreat Exhibition held in
London, on the ground'that'instruments of war were unbecoming, if not obsolete,
illustrations of industry and science !

How soon those ideas and theories were to be rudely shocked and blown to the
winds when the Russian war broke out, all will remember. As if in mockery
of the attempts of these peace philosophers to patch up the affairs of the world
and bind the power of evil with a rope twisted from the product of their own
brains, England, the enlightened, the Christian, with four other great nations*
became involved in a deadly struggle, the throes of which convulsed Europe to
her centre. For a time the peace o£ every nation within her limits was threatened.
Since the termination of that great war scarcely a year has elapsed without fur-
nishing its crop of difficulties and bloody struggles, until men look back upon the
theories of the past and wonder how they could have been deceived with such
* impracticable ideas. In the United Spates, the former advocates of peace, have,,
in the course of events, been metamorphosed into welcomers qf war. Gannon —
the last argument of kings — is the only arbitrament they are now willing to* sub-
mit to there ; and they welcome and accept war " as the Bed Sea through which
the nation has to pass, to gain the Canaan which lies beyond." How much opi-
nions have been revolutionized in this country also trpon this subject, may easily
be perceived by reading the proceedings of the British Association now as-
sembled at Manchester. This association has for the objects of its assembling
the encouragement of scientific researches and the registration of scientific dis-
coveries. Of course the development of mechanical science comes within its pur-
view. And as the development of this science has been almost entirely in the
direction of the manufacture of instruments of warfare, the association finds its
attention occupied with discussions upon this subject. Instead of thinking now
that instruments of war are unbecoming or obsolete illustrations of industry and
science, the best minds of the Association are engaged in elaborating and com-
paring their views upon the best methods of manufacturing them. Artillery,
rifled cannon, elongated projectiles, and irresistible shot for attack, and armour
and iron- cased ships for defence, are the topics now viewed as all-important, and
they take the precedence of those of a more peaceful character. The inventors
and manufacturers of those engines of destruction are amongst the most honoured
men of the nation.

However correct the originators of the Peace Congress might be in their
theories and reasonings, it is now very clear that they made a great mistake in
imagining that the nations of Christendom could be induced to settle their
disputes without recourse to war. Universal peace is a beautiful idea to dwell
upon. The settlement of difficulties among nations by bloodless arbitration
instead of war, the flinging aside of the sword and spear, the disuse of artillery
and weapons of every description, and the devotion of man to the peaceful
pursuits of life, are all subjects which afford almost unlimited scope to eloquence.
But the advocates of this movement themselves could not maintain sufficient
peace in their own Congress to decide upon or adopt anything definite, or at all
equal to the exigencies of the case which they had in hand. How vain it was,
therefore, to expect that nations armed to the teeth and prepared for conflict
could settle their difficulties peacefully !

Digitized by Google

612

EDITORIAL.

It is worse than useless for men to cry " peace, peace, when there is no peace,"
or to flatter themselves that the terrible issue of war can be avoided. The decree
has gone forth respecting the nations of Christendom. War in their midst is
inevitable, unless they take the course pointed out by the Lord ; which, however,
they seem determined not to take. They are to be wasted away by war ; and Eng-
land and'France and the other nations, in preparing so extensively and persistently
for it, are only getting ready for a contest which they instinctively anticipate, but
which they still hope will continue to be postponed. It is under the inspiration
of this instinctive apprehension of danger that the inventive faculties of England's
scientific manufacturers of machines of warfare are kept on the constant stretch.
The entire attention of the nation is also directed to the consideration of the sub-
ject. But, notwithstanding the advancement made in this direction by every
nation, and the precautions each is taking to preserve its status, Babylon must
fall : no power can avert her destruction. Machines of warfare, machines of
offence and defence of every description, will be needed in great abundance to
complete her destruction ; and it must be confessed that the nations of which she
is composed are doing all in their power to furnish them for the occasion. After
Bhe is thrown down, then can the sword be converted into the ploughshare, and
the spear into the pruninghook : they will be no longer needed for warlike pur-
poses, for war will then have ceased to be the study of man. There will be
nothing to hurt or destroy in all the holy mountain of the Lord. But until
Babylon meets with her long-promised fate, the manufacture of machines and
weapons of war will be continued, and peace may be looked for in vain among
the nations of the earth.

EVACUATION OF CAMP FLOYD BY THE U. S. ARMY.

Among the many lessons taught the people of this generation respecting the
utter futility of any attempt on their part to injure or retard the progress of
the Church and kingdom of God, there are nope, perhaps, that stand out so pro-
minently before the world as that resulting from the sending of the Unfted
States' army to Utah. When the scheme was first broached, and it became known
that the Government had fitted out and started an expedition, a cry of exulta-
tion rose from every corner of the earth where an enemy of the truth resided.
How boastfully they paraded the news, with their comments and anticipations
as to the results which would follow such a movement, is too recent to be
forgotten. In public journals and in private conversation the step was dwelt
upon with approval, and congratulations were exchanged upon the favourable
prospect which presented itself of a speedy overthrow of our religion. So
prevalent had become the belief that its downfall in Zion was certain, that there
was not a contemptible, vile fellow in any country where Latter-day Saints
resided, who did not take upon himself additional airs in his treatment of his
neighbour who happened to be of the obnoxious faith. These enemies were
not disturbed with a doubt respecting the success of the' crusade against us,
and all classes revelled in the anticipations of the triumph of the undertaking,
as much so as though the triumph had actually been achieved. The Saints
who at that time were in this and other countries, not having been gathered to
Zion, will probably never forget the embittered feelings and domineering
manners exhibited during those days by their opponents. The latter, in
many instances, treated them as though they had forfeited almost every right as

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL.

613

human beings, because they had exercised their right to worship God ac-
cording to the dictates of their own consciences. Some, indeed, went so far as
to think that life itself was a boon too good for such as they to enjoy.

But the triumph, in the anticipation of which there had been so much
rejoicing and delight, and upon the anticipated accomplishment of which there
had been so much terrorism and abuse exercised, never was achieved. The
world became conscious of the fact that a successful consummation of the
expedition was a more difficult undertaking than had been imagined. When,
this began to bo realized, and when afterwards it was found that there was
no prospect of the system's being overthrown by the army, a reaction took
place. Many have become ashamed of their past conduct and treatment, and
all have apparently become satisfied that this plan, at least, has been a
failure.

By letters recently received from the Valley we learn that the last remnant
of the once famous army has left Fort Crittenden, or, as it is better known,
Camp Floyd, (the head-quarters of the military in Utah Territory,) and taken
up its line of march eastward. Before leaving, everything they could not take
with them, excepting the guns and ammunition they could not carry, was
sold out. These latter, consisting of guns, powder, lead, and shell, they
destroyed. An action of this kind requires no comment. After the army
had been detained in the mountains by the threatened resistance of the people
of Utah, it was asserted that one of the principal objects the Government had
in view in sending them there was to protect the settlers in that country and
the emigrants who might be passing through from the attacks of the Indians.
They tried to persuade the people of the Territory that they, in preventing them
from entering into the Valley, were interfering with the generous intentions
of their true friends. This was the view, also, they gave to the world. Of course,
upon their being called away, it might have been expected that, as they could
not be there themselves to assist in the defence of the people and country, they
would at least have left what arms and ammunition they could spare. But no :
they would neither sell nor leave to be used munitions of this kind. The
orders of the War Department were inexorable, and they must be sold. Very
low prices ruled at the sales, such as flour, 52 cents (2s. 2d.) per sack of
lOOlbs. in double sacks; sugar, 12$ cents (6$d.) per pound; and wheat,
bacon, harness, tents, and all kinds of tools, &c, &c, equally low. The build-
ings also, we learn, were disposed of verv^ cheap. In one letter that we have
seen, the writer estimates that four million dollars' worth of property were sold
for one hundred thousand dollars.

Thus has ended the great expedition against the Latter-day Saints in Utah,
which had become world-renowned, in consequence of the extravagant hopes
that were indulged in by its originators respecting its success. It should be
known hereafter in history as " Buchanan's Folly." Though, to do Mr Buchanan
justice, we ought to say that we have cause to believe that he became partially
conscious of having done us a great wrong, and endeavoured, towards the end
of his administration, to turn aside some of the evil designs of our enemies.
Truly has the promise of the Lord been fulfilled to his servants — the weapons
that have been formed against them have not prospered, and the tongues
that have arisen against them in judgment have been condemned. All the
world noticed the advance of the gallant army ; but who will draw any lesson
of instruction from their return?

614

EDITOEIAJ,.

News from Holland. — Wc have received a communication from Elder Paul
A. Schettler, dated Amsterdam, August 26th, in which he informs us that he
and Elder Van der Woude arrived at Rotterdam on the 5th, when they dedicated
themselves to the Lord in prayer for the mission appointed to them in that
country, and afterwards separated, Elder Van der Woude going to Amsterdam,
and Elder Schettler to Zeist, near Utrecht, where his relatives resided.
He says — ^

" My old friends and relatives, who are in prosperous circumstances, received me
very kindly ; but in a few days, after I had preached to them a little of our doctrines,
they found out that I had become a " Mormon," though I had never mentioned the
word ; and it was very difficult to prevail upon them to listen to sound reasoning from
that very hour, because their minds had been prejudiced against us to a great extent,
through the reading of the most vile and slanderous reports in Dutch and German
newspapers. I had several interesting discussions with their . preacher and some
others of their learned men, who knew me personally, and they could not refute one
of the doctrines which I advanced. At last they said they were convinced of the
integrity of my intentions, but that I was deluded and a fanatic. In order, however,
to enable them to read and study our doctrines as published by ourselves, I wrote to
brother John L. Smith in Basel, who sent me a few books and pamphlets in the
German language, which I left in Zeist, hoping they will produce some fruits. My
friends all promised to peruse them diligently, and I parted with them in pretty
good feeling."

Having thus introduced the Gospel there, Elder S. then transferred his labours
to Amsterdam, where he found Elder Van der Woude doing his best to effect an
opening in that place. Coming in contact with a converted Jewish rabbi, who
appeared to be diligently searching after truth, they discussed with him die
principles of the Gospel ; and from the interest he took in the subject, they
were led to hope that he will ultimately embrace the same. From him they
gained the following information : —

"He told us that there were two private societies of people in this city who
believed the same principles which we advanced, and came together only to read the
Bible among themselves, believing in no preacher's authority. Next Sunday, the
18th, we accordingly went . to two of their meetings, and introduced ourselves as
friends of Bible truth, from America, and were kindly admitted. In the evening*
chance was given to brother Van der Woude to speak a little while ; and having
heard that they had baptized one another by immersion, we inquired by what autho-
rity they had done so. This question they promised to answer us in a few days, and
also if they would allow us to preach in their meetings. We had given them a short
history of the rise, progress, and doctrines of our Church. There beinga few able to-
read the English language, I left with them, on request, the 'Voice of Warning.'"

On the 21st, Elder Van der Woude left Amsterdam to introduce the Gospel
into Workum, in Friesland, where others of his relatives were residing. On
the 23rd, Elder Schettler, who remained in Amsterdam, received back the loaned
" Voice of Warning,'* with a communication from the society declining to assist
him in spreading " Mormonism," as they did not acknowledge any book of
Divine authority except the Bible. In return, however, Elder S. forwarded
several copies of the " Authenticity of the Book of Mormon," and some other
tracts which he translated and printed into the Dutch language, with quota-
tions from the Bible, proving the truth of our doctrines. He also had several
favourable interviews with some ladies to whom Mr. Meyerse (the baptized
Jew) had introduced them, and who appeared to feel considerable interest in the
work. Much opposition, however, at the date of the letter, was being mani-
fested in all directions, by the preachers going about warning the people not to
converse with the " horrible Mormons" who had arrived there and were " trying
to seduce the people." Thus the Adversary, who has ever sought to subvert the
influence of the servants of God, is on the alert, endeavouring in various ways to
nullify the efforts of our brethren, and prevent the establishment of the Gospel
standard in Holland. But greater is He who sent them, and who has said that
his word shall not return to him void, but that it shall accomplish that which he
pleases, and prosper in the thing whereto he sent it.

cobhespondekce.

615

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.
London, Sept. 4, 1861.
President Gannon.

Dear Brother, — Having laboured in
the Southampton District during the
past year, in connection with Elder
iyderlaan, I forward you a brief re-
port of our labours.

The Saints in the Reading Conference
are in a very scattered condition, which
causes the Elders to perform consider-
able leg-service in visiting them in some
parts of the Conference. The people
do not appear to relish the truth, as the
meetings are Seldom frequented by
fitrangers. In other parts a spirit of
inquiry appears to be manifested.

In some parts of the Wiltshire Dis-
trict, open -air preaching is carried on
extensively. The people seem to ap-
preciate the teachings of tfce brethren,
who command their attention. I feel
thankful for the experience I have
gained while here. I have not baptized
*. great many, but still realize that my
labours have not been in vain. Many
of the Saints are preparing for. next
spring's emigration.

Elder Zyderlaan reports the Dorset
Conference in a healthy condition.

President Fotheringham, also brothers
Talbot, Zyderlaan, and myself, have
been busily engaged while here visiting
the Branches in the London Conference.
The Saints are feeling pretty well, the
brethren are baptizing every week.
Open-air preaching is carried on ex-
tensively, with very little opposition
manifested. It is anticipated that a
great number will emigrate from here
next spring.

As brothers Fotheringham, Talbot,
Zyderlaan, and myself, are about to em-
bark for Afric's shores, we crave an
interest in the prayers of the Saints,
that we may be the humble instruments
in the hands of God of bringing many
aouls into the fold.

With love to yourself, Presidents
Lyman and Rich, and associates in the
Office, in which brothers Fotheringham,
Zyderlaan, and Talbot join, I remain
your brother in the Gospel of Christ,

Henry A. Dixon.

x Newcastle-on-Tyne, Sept. 5, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — You will learn by
our statistical report, there has been
something like forty added to this Con-
ference this last half-year, the principal
part of that number being prodigals,
who for a season had forgotten their Hea^
venly Father and his interests ; yet my
heart is made glad in knowing that we
have been abundantly blest while visit-
ing the wanderer at the fireside, in-
spiring him again with the same noble
feelings that stirred his bouI when the
first Elders of Israel, bore to him the
words of life.

I can assure you, dear brofher, it
is gratifying to be able to bear tes-
timony to the disinterested conduct of
brother Gleason and others filled with
a yearning desire to bless the people ;
and in labouring with such men I have
ever felt free to preach the Gospel and
administer to the Saints of God, many
of whom anticipate this coming year to
cross the briny main, to seek a home in.
the land of Joseph.

The spirit of inquiry is taking deep
root in the minds of many of our mends
in this quarter, which increases our
desire to be more diligent in serving
out the bread of life to the hungry, starv-
ing soul ; and with the flattering pros-
pects before us, my confidence grows
stronger every day that the north will
patronize largely the kingdom of our
God by turning out hundreds and thou-
sands of her honest children to swell the
great theocracy of latter days.

Praying that success may attend
your administrations and the ministry
throughout the world,

Yours in the cause of truth,

William Dallin.

SCOTLAND.

Glasgow, Aug. 27, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Feeling that a little
information concerning the condition of
the Glasgow Conference might be ac-
ceptable, I embrace the present oppor-
tunity of furnishing you with the same*

Digitized by Google

61$

COBBESPONDENCE.

Since I parted with vou in Glasgow, on
the 25th July last. I have been actively
engaged, in company with President
Stuart, travelling through the Con-
ference, attending Branch meetings, and
visiting the Saints at their homes ;
during which time myself and the
Saints generally have been much bene-
fited by President Stuart's counsels.

I feel glad to see the spirit that exists
amongst the Saints throughout the
Conference. I find them everywhere
rejoicing in the light and liberty of the
Gospel ; for the truth makes them free,
and stimulates them with future hopes
that "none but Zion's children know."
The Priesthood, with but few exceptions,
are united in their efforts to do good. I
find them willing to act as they are
directed for the furtherance of the work
amongst the Saints, and spreading the
principles of salvation amongst those
who are "ignorant of the tidings of the
Gospel, which God has sent to redeem
fallen humanity.

In consequence of the present Ameri-
can struggle, some branches of trade are
considerably affected, which prevents a
good number of the Saints from saving for
their emigration so fast as they could
wish, and attending to other duties they
have a desire to do; but perseverance
prompts them to make the best of their
present opportunities, while hope pro-
claims " there's a good time coming."

Our meetings are pretty well attended
with Saints, and sometimes a few who
are inquiring after the truth come
amongst us. We continue to add some
to the Church by baptism in most
Branches ; but they are few, compared
with what we might expect, considering
the large number of intelligent persons
who live within the limits of this Con?
ference.

Religious bigotry reigns in this district
of country to an unlimited extent. It
chains the minds of many thousands
witjrin the narrow limits of human creeds,
and prevents them from giving heed to
the voice of those inspired by Heaven,
who invite all to freely explore the in-
exhaustible field of truth, which contains
all that is sufficient to satisfy the highest
aspirations of God's sons and daughters.

President Stuart left here for Edin-
burgh on the 17th. Brother William
Warnock continues to labour faithfully
frith m.e t He is our only Travelling Elder

in this Conference at present. Praying
God to bless you in all your labours,
I am your servant and brother,

Robert Sands.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.
Aalborg, August 29, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — The day, long-
expected, has finally dawned, that Pre-
sidents Lyman ana Rich have come to
our shores. They arrived in this city
on the 23rd instant, accompanied by
President Van Cott, with the steamer
Dania from Copenhagen, and attended
a Conference meeting with us in Ven-
syssel on the 25th, which was to us and
the Saints a day that will never be for-
gotten.

While travelling through the country,
Presidents Lyman and Rich were taking
special notice of the appearance of the
same, and the situation of its inha-
bitants. You will easily form an idea
how the people were astounded and
gazing at the appearance of Apostles,
as they and their generations for cen-
turies back never saw the like in this
northern clime. There has been a
general time of rejoicing all through
with the " Mormon" and many friends.
Others were standing still and wonder-
ing. The editors do not fail to give in
their accounts of the grand events that
thus transpire, It was rumoured in
this city to-day, and actually believed,
that President Young is here ; and they
did not know what to make of it.

The work is still moving onward, al-
though very little opportunity offers
itself to the Elders to preach, except on
the Sundays, save it be among peopla
who study the principles of our religion.

Here in Aalborg there have not been
so many baptized as last quarter (31
persons were baptized), but in Ven-
syssel we haye baptized 108 during three
months. This is almost a wonder, as
this time of the year is no time for
baptisms at all in this country. The
future prospects of the work are very
bright, particularly in Vensyssel.

My relatives there have began to in-
vestigate the truth ; some of them are
near baptism. I have never had any
influence with them till lately, now
they melt at the sound of the Gospel.
Yours respectfully,

A« CHRISTEN3B2f.

Digitized by

SUMMARY* 617

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Hanover. — Disturbances have recently
broken out in various parts of the kingdom,
previously to which demonstrations of all
kinds were made. The cause is partly to be
found in the enormous price of all kinds of
food, and partly in the desire of the work-
people to have holiday on Saturdays as well
as Sundays without any diminiution of their
pay. Things went so far that the officers
were attacked; and one of them, who
endeavoured to appease the people, was so
badly wounded, that he yet lies in some
danger. About 250 soldiers were sent from
Northeim, to prevent further outbreak from
taking place.

■ Poland. — In Kalisch, on the anniversary
of the coronation of the Emperor Alexander,
no general illumination took place. The
people smashed the windows of the few
houses that were illuminated, and hissed
the troops sent to disperse them. The mi-
litary acted with great violence— beating,
and even robbing the people. Many per-
sons were arrested, among whom are seve-
ral of the principal citizens. Some have
since been set at liberty, but forty are still
in prison. A letter from Warsaw states
that nothing can be more distressing than
the .accounts from Lithuania, and even the
provinces which belong to the so-called
kingdom ot Poland With the exception of
Warsaw, where the performance of making
concessions and yielding to popular wishes
on the part of the Government is given for
the sake of the public opinion of Europe, the
whole country is ruled with the utmost
severity of military arbitrarines. There
are no means which are not resorted to in
order to smother and subdue the national
spirit. Domiciliary visits, executed with
the utmost disregard for common -place
propriety, and even decency; arbitary
arrests, without any trial, and often without
any plausible reason ; removal to the
Russian fortresses, or to Siberia, to citizens
who are particularly esteemed in tha locality
where they are residing; the continual
interference of savage hordes with even
domestic life — all these means seem not to
be sufficient for the safety of the Russian
Government in those countries. It has re-
course to all the means by which an un-
principled and cunning policy can arrive at
its ends.

Madagascar. — Le Nord states that the
Queen of Madagascar, who was remarkable
for her barbarous and anti-European policy,
is dead, and a French squjjflron has left
Bourbon to support her successor, who is a
Roman Catholic

India. — Harvest prospects continue ex-
cellent, but the cholera had ravaged the
north-western provinces. At Peshawur
1 ,400 houses were destroyed by a storm.
The cholera is committing dreadful ravages
in Agra and Meerut. Very bad accounts of
the indigo crops are received from Sirhoot
and Benares.

Australia. — Disturbances resulting in a
fatal collision with the police have taken
place at Lambing Flat diggings. A renewal
of the war in New Zealand is imminent.
Peace with the natives is considered hope-
less. General Cameron will await rein-
forcements before taking the field. All the
men-of-war have been ordered to assemble*
at Auckland.

America. — Governor Denison has re-
ceived the following telegram frcm General
Cass. 4 ' Authentic reports show that 1 5 of our
men were killed and about 40 wounded, at
the recent fight at Summerville, in Western
Virginia. Large numbers of the 7th Ohio
regiment were scattered during the fight, and
are missing ; but it is hoped most of them
will escape." Washington despatches to the
29th state that the Confederates are in full
possession of Bailey Cross Roads, and are
bringing up their baggage from Springfield
station. Four New York regiments, com-
posing Frankun's Brigade, were ordered to
advance, and marched within two-and-half
miles of Cross Roads. Several picket skir-
mishes are reported, several being killed or*
both sides. A rumour from St. Louis states
positively that General M'Culloch is
marching on Jefferson city with 10,000 men.
Information has been received that the
Unionists are leaving Harper's Ferry in
great numbers. Texas advices state that
Fort Staunton has been abandoned and fired
by the Union forces. The post-office, in
consequence of violation of mails, have dis-
continued the service to offices in Kentucky
and West Tennessee River. The Secretary
of WaT has ordered the stoppage of telgraphic
despatches to points south of Kentucky.
Martial law is proclaimed in Missouri.
Insurrectionists' slaves are to be freed. The
Richmond Examiner of the 26th says the>
Confederate Congress has decided to repeal
the law establishing ports of entry, and
throw all the Southern coast open to foreign
commerce, providing that vessels which run
the blockage into shore inlets shall pay thfr
Confederate duties at the port nearest their
landing. Advices from Kentucky represent
the secession feeling to be increasing. A
defeat is rumoured of the Federalists at Capo
Gurardean, in Mississippi, below Cairo*

Digitized by

618

VARIETIES. POETBY. ADDRESSES. DEATH,

VARIETIES.

Remedy for Toothache. — Two or three drops of essential oil of cloves, put upon a
small piece of lint or cotton wool, and placed in the hollow of the tooth, will often ease the
toothache, without destroying: the tooth or injuring the gums.

Colourless Cement for Broken China and Glass. — Dissolve $ oz. gum acacia in a
wineglass of boiling water, adding plaster of Paris sufficient to form a thick paste, and
apply it with a brush to the parts required to be cemented together.

On a tombstone near San Diego, California, reads thus: — " This yere is sakrid to the
memory of William Henry Skaraken, who cairn to his deth by bein shot by Colt's revolver •
— one of the old kind, brass mountid and of sutch is the kingdom of heavin."

Are the Planets Inhabited ? — When we walk abroad on a clear starlight night,
and direct our view to the aspect of the heavens, there are certain reflections which will
present themselves to every meditative mind. Are those shining orbs, which in such
countless numbers decorate the firmament, peopled with creatures endowed like ourselves
with reason to discover, with sense to love, and with imagination to expand to their
boundless perfection the attributes of Him of " whose fingers the heavens are the work?"
Has he who " made man lower than the angels, to crown him" with the glory of discovering
that light in which he has 41 decked himself as with a garment," also made other creatures
with like powers and like destinies, with dominion over the work of his hands, and having
all things put in subjection under their feet ? And are those resplendent globes which
roll in silent majesty through the measureless abysses of space the dwellings of suck
beings P These are inquiries against which neither the urgency of business nor the
allurements of pleasure can block up the avenues of the mind. — Lardner.

POETRY.

LINES ON THE

A faithful son of God has passed away
To glorious realms of never-ending day,
Prom a sad wor!d of sorrow, sin, and strife,
To taste the opening sweets of endless life.

Oh ! what a happy sphere he basks in there,
Where he can labour free from pain or care.
Untrammelled by this cumbrous mortal coil,
That's subject to unceasing weary toil.

I saw him fighting with the deadly foe
OT dire disease, while toiling here below ;
His noble course pursuing manfully,
Until the Lord saw fit to set him free.

London.

rH OP A BROTHER.

If honesty is all that's worth a name.
Then ho has carved out an eternal fame :
His memory lives in hearts that love him well.
And of his Godlike deeds they love to telL

How man* that were sick with grief and care.
And ready to give up in deep despair,
VVith his pure sympathy too* heart again.
And bloomed with life, like flowers refreshed with raia

May we tread in his footprints left behind—
Footprints which every honest Saint may find :
We'll then our destiny falfll on earth,
And earn a crown of never-lading worth.

William Snamc.

Addrk8Sbs.— J. G. Bigler, 31, Irwin Street, Belfast.

George Webb, care of Mr. James Brewer, SaddleT, Beccles, Suffolk.
Richard Bentley, Chapel House, St Paul's Opening, Norwich, Norfolk.
Septimus Sears, care of Mr. John Cushing, builder, &c, Shipdham, Norfolk.
John Miller, care of Mr. William Riugwood, Chandler's Hill, Wyraondham, Norfolk.

Dibd— On the 2nd instant, at Belfast. Elder William M'Kay, of bleeding of the lungs, after an illness of
thirteen days.

CONTENTS.

Minutes ofa Conference held in Denmark 603 Dixon and Dallin.— Scttland • Lett*

A Hard Nut for the Church of England to Crack. 606 Elder Sands.— Scandinavian Misslon.-

History of Joseph Smith 607 from Elder Christensen 6IJ

Editorial.— Peace and War— Contrast Between Summary of News and Pacing Events. -61?

1851 andl8Gl.— Evacuation of Camp Flo vd by Varieties. 8\9

the V. S. Army.— News from Holland ". 610 Poetrv.— Lines on the Death of a Brother.'.!!.

Correspondence.— England : Letters from Elders Addresses.— Death

LIVERPOOL: i

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON. ; , J

% V LONDON: if

*0R SALE AT THE; LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DM POT. 30. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STREETS*

ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. . jf

■i m o„GoogIe |

THE LATTER-BAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAB.

U A leeieeehatleomeeventothe ends of the earth; for the Z/)rd hatha eontrwet'ipurtih the naHone: he will
plead with ail/Uih; he wfllffot them that art widud to the tword, eaUhthe LordT—JwaMMiAm.

Hp. do, Vol. XXTTT. Saturday, September 28, 1861. Price One Penny.

OBEDIENCE BBIKGETH BLESSINGS,

That the people of God have always
. been, are still, and will continue to be
. blessed according to their obedience to
bis commandments, is a truth admitted
and dearly prised by all true Saints.
They have proven it for themselves, and
ean rejoice in the strong assuranoe it

fives them that God is ever mindful of
is children, and rewards them according
to their diligence ; and their own ex-
perience confirms the veracity of the
recorded dealings of the Lord with his

P 60 ?* 6 m f° rmer a S es# * n both the
.Bible aufl the Book of Mormon the
principle is amply illustrated ; for in
^ each we find that when the people were
- obedient and diligent in hearkening to
rthe word of the Lord, they grew and
prospered, and his blessings attended
-them, while when disobedient to his
commandments they suffered and were
punished. When, through transgres-
non, they had stripped themselves of
the power they enjoyed while honouring
, his laws, their enemies were permitted
\flo waste and destroy them, and they
goffered all the effects of their enfeebled
^■Condition; yet when their hearts were
~ turned in penitence and humility to
/. beaven, and their desires to walk right-
, j eously before the Lord increased and
j strengthened, the same kind Providence,
^whoever remembered the promises made
'*jito the fathers, visited them in mercy
» ; #nd extended anew his protecting care

over them. This was and is true of
individuals as well as of a collective
people, and the same obedience* which
oringeth blessings to a community must
bring blessings to the member^' com-
posing that community. But of the
nature of this obedience many people
seem to be ignorant, and in consequence
of that ignorance fail to receive the
blessings, which, if knowing better, they
would labour to enjoy. It is not a mere
outward adhesion to certain ordinances,
forms, and ceremonies, which constitutes
an obedience acceptable before God,
but a whole-souled desire to keep the
commandments of the Lord, manifested
by a continued willingness to honour
every law that may be revealed, with
an earnestness and sincerity of purpose
and a purity of motive lying deep in
the heart.
Mere lip-service offered in the act of

Erayer is not sufficient to obtain the
leggings promised to those who seek
them at tne throne of heaven in that
act of devotion ; but the soul's sincere
desire breathed forth in fervency and
truth is required to draw down an
answer from the God of prayer. Simply
attending to the ordinance of baptism
will not secure a remission of sins,
unless faith and repentance precede and
accompany it. Thus Peter could say
with truth to Simon Magus that he was
"in the bonds of iniquity and the gall of

Digitized by Google

620

OBEDIENCE BBINGETB BLESSINGS.

bitterness," though he had been baptized
with the others to whom Philip adminis-
tered that ordinance at Samaria. In-
dividuals thus baptized might have
hands laid upon them a thousand times
by the holiest men who ever lived, and
yet they would not receive the gift of
the Holy Ghost, because they would
not be in a condition for that holy in-
fluence to rest upon and abide with
them. Numbers, through a variety of
motives, different from that simple and
earnest desire for salvation which God
loves, have been baptized members of
the Church, — some because acquaint-
ences or associates, whose actions they
liked to copy, had been impressed with
the truth of the Gospel and rendered
obedience to it ; others, seeking after
change, and ready to embrace the newest
novelty, have been charmed with the
opportunity thus afforded them of grati-
fying this changing propensity, and
hate been numbered for a season with
the. people of God ; while others, again,
have been persuaded and influenced by
well-meaning friends to be baptized,
and have permitted themselves to be
led down to the water, manifesting but
little, if any, mind of their own in the
matter, ana suffering the ordinance to
be administered to them, scarcely ani-
mated by a desire or motive of any
kind. In the sifting and cleansing
process ever going on in the kingdom of
God, these characters sooner or later
find themselves outside that kingdom,
their salvation unsecured, and them-
selves ignorant of the nature and cha-
racter of the work with which for a
brief time they had been connected.
Those who abide a commandment of
God from any other motive than the
desire to perform a duty which they feel
it a privilege to perform are not in a
position to receive the blessings which
are to be obtained through a willing
and perfect obedience to it ; hence, they
who are obedient through fear or dread
of punishment cannot enjoy the hap-
piness or secure the blessings that an
obedience which springeth from love
secures. They are the subjects of the
law, living in terror of it, desiring
to do evil, and only restrained because
of the consequences which would in-
evitably follow. The evil which thus
exists in the heart is incompatible with
the presence of the Spirit of God, whose

influence is holy and pure, and prompts
to righteous actions continually. There
are some who, when baptized into the
Church, seem to consider that they
have done all that is necessary to secure
their salvation, and are unwilling
to obey any commandment which may
be afterwards given them, unless then-
standings are imperilled through non-
obedience. Sucn appear to have been
baptized simply because they were
afraid of the punishment which would
inevitably await them in the future for
their transgressions, without seeming
to realize the naturo of the inestimable
blessing which was to follow upon a
righteous obedience to that ordinance,
— namely, the reception of the Holy
Ghost, to qualify them continually for
the upward march to celestial exaltation
and glory. They do not appear to
realize that they can only travel in the
path of perfection, which leads ta the
holy ana glorified associations of eter-
nity, through continued and progressive
obedience to the commandments of
God; for which they are qualified
by the ministrations of that Spirit.
If such would hearken to the instruc-
tions of the Priesthood, and strive to
understand and apply them, they would
obtain a better knowledge of the plan
of salvation than they seem to be in
possession of ; and secret acts of iniquity,
which are occasionally coming to light,
would not be found among the Saints ;
for the truth would be loved by them
for its own sake, and righteousness
practised because it was acceptable be-
fore God, and not because their standings
in the Church would be imperilled by
doing that which is evil. It is an entirely
wrong conception of the economy of
God to suppose that evil can be com-
mitted in secret, and be hidden without
coming to light, and the consequence
following it The very fact of an indi-
vidual sinning in secret where no eye
beholds him but God's, even though all
mankind might remain ignorant of the
sin, may be enough, in the magnitude
of the crime, to cut that individual off
from the communion of the Holy Spirit
as effectively as though the Church had
been cognizant of and taken action on
the case. Su ch persons would wither up
and die to the life of the spirit, and their
subsequent actions would reveal them-
selves to all. Even if the sin was not

Digitized by VjOOQIC "

OBEDIENCE BBINOETH BLESSINGS.

621

00 deep as to produce such dire results,
still the grieving of the Spirit of God,
through a departure from its monitions,
and the misery which would inevitably
follow, attest the perfection of that plan
by which God has decreed that a con-
tinued and heartfelt obedience to the
principles of righteousness can alone
secure the blessing of the continued
ministrations of the Spirit of life, with
power to progress towards celestial ex-
altation.

If any of the laws of heaven which
for years have been before the Church,
but which are by many virtually dis-
regarded, were in any way made binding
upon the Saints as a matter of fellow-
ship and a test of standing, how many
there are who would obey them, by
whom they are now all but ignored.
But would this obedience be acceptable
before God P No; for God desires to be
served in love, and not through fear.
If attendance at meetings, obedience to
the " Word of Wisdom," and payment of
tithing, with other kindred duties, were
made matters of fellowship, many who
are now remiss in these things would
be found attending to them, not because
they could derive additional blessings
from so doing, but because their stand-
ings would be imperilled. But they
could not obtain the blessings which a
voluntary observance of these injunc-
tions would entitle them to ; for instead
of acting as intelligent agents upon
knowledge which they possessed and
appreciated, they would be rendering
an unwilling and servile obedience to
Heaven, which God cannot love, neither
bless. This has been fully exemplified
in this Mission within the past twelve
months as regards the law of tithing.
No sooner was it understood by the
Saints that payment of tithimg was not
a matter of fellowship, than numbers
who were in a position to pay it ceased
to do so, and have" continued negligent
up to the present time. Such indi-
viduals never could have understood the
nature of the privilege thus given them,
neither realized that they were being
placed in a position where they could
manifest by a voluntary obedience their
knowledge and appreciation of the
principle. Tn e 7 could not obtain the
rail blessing of a tithepayer while
paying tithing, because they acted
under a compulsory influence, and not

from love of the principle. With many
this was not so. Such can testify that
the Lord blessed them above their ex-
pectations, and they prospered in their
undertakings, for the Spirit of God
rested upon them as they sought to live
in accordance with its holy inspirations.
Such Saints would grow rich, not only
in faith, but in means ; for the Lord
would recognize their desires to mag-
nify their stewardship of the things
committed to their care ; and in striving
to build up the Kingdom of God, they
would pursue the most effectual course
to build up themselves.

But tithing is only one law out of the
many which require a voluntary and
honest obedience. Coercive influence
would be powerless to exalt any indi-
vidual. We might drajj a man to the
water, and immerse him in it, — whether
that dragging was physical or merely
an undue influence exercised upon him ;
but unless, in sincerity of heart, he had
believed and repented, his sins would
continue to shroud his soul in all their
dark and hideous drapery. He would
go his wayan unrepenting, unforgiven
sinner. We might force him to open
his lips in prayer, but the Spirit of God
would not dictate the words he might
utter, and the heavens would be sealed
against them. We might lead him to
the assemblies of the Saints ; but his
feelings and desires would not be in
unison with theirs, and he would depart
unblessed by the hallowed influence
which might have shed its happiness
and blessings upon them. We might
compel a man to pay his tithes and
offerings ; but if it required compulsion
to make him do so, they would be un-
sanctified to him, and the blessing of
Heaven would not rest upon him for
such obedience. It is only through a
voluntary and willing obedience to all
the requirements of Heaven that the
possession of those blessings which
accompany the Gospel of salvation can
be secured ; and while obedient through
fear, or under coercive influence, thai
knowledge of the truth can never be
obtained, the possession and application
of which can alone prepare mankind
ifor the enjoyment of an exaltation in the»
future. Obedience to certain laws and
ordinances may be enforced upon a
people, and submitted to for a time ;
but when that coercion is reeved they

Digitized by Google

622 ' ' LITTLE EVILS.

will be found in no better condition than
before it was applied.

By obedience to the first ordinances
of the Gospel the Saints obtained and
enjoyed oertain blessings ; but that obe-
dianco was yoluntary and sincere ; and
on the same principle, a willing obedience
rendered to all the commandments of
God as they are revealed will secure to
them everlasting blessings. While sub-
ject to the law, they never could rise
superior to it ; hence they would never
be qualified to possess the kingdom and
assume the responsibilities thereof, if it
required compulsion to secure their
obedience to the laws of the kingdom.
By continued progression in the under-
standing of the truth, and by a deep
love for that truth, manifested in a
voluntary and humble obedience to its
sacred injunctions, will the Saints be-
come qualified for future exaltation and
greatness. Receiving truth after truth

and commandment after commandment
revealed for their acceptance, and ren-
dering a willing obedience to each in its
place, they will, themselves, rise su-
perior to the law and become fitted to
fee its dispensers to others, enjoying (he
blessings which a knowledge and ap-

?lication of the truth ever secure*,
he condemnation of a people will not
lie solely in their ignorance, Dut in their
disobedience to . principles which are
laid before them and are rejected by
them ; and their exaltation will be pro-
duced by their reception of the troth,
not in word only, but in deed also.
Hence the necessity which exists for
the Saints to make a practical ac-
quaintance with all the commandments
of Heaven; and progress from faith to
faith, that by their diligence and obe-
dience they may inherit the blessings
which are laid up in store for the
faithful.

LITTLE EVILS.

It often happens that evils which may
not be very glaring in the eyes of other
people are allowed to grow until they
become so matured that the Adversary
of man's progress effectively uses them
to prevent the full salvation of the
body and the spirit. These so-called
44 trifling" evils are numerous, which
bring a feeling of remorse and leave a
sting, notwithstanding the perpetrators
thereof try to satisfy their own better
judgment and the good sense of others
by the hypocritical adage — 14 There's
no harm in it." It is true that our
own imagination may foresee no mon-
strous effects flowing from them, from
our own familiarity with the same ;
and, possibly, our taste may urge an
argument in their favour ; but we hesi-
tate not in saying that the refraining
from such will produce benefit.

We here enumerate a few of these
evils that are common among the
aspirants to progression, and which
have often proved barriers in the way,
and which we would caution all to
uhun, as the indulgence in any men-
tioned or similar weaknesses will surely
be quiokly followed by unprofitable
consequences: nay, more, even dire re-
flate will inevitably flow from them.

To be thoroughly versed in other
people's affairs that do not require our
attention, overlooking our own at the
same time, and entirely forgetting the
"Mormon" creed — 44 Mind your own
business."

To allow the mind to find no pleasure
but in planning for and indulging mill-
timed courtship, so contrary to the
counsels of authorized teachers.

To let months and perhaps years pass
without one meditation or reflection
upon our actual spiritual condition,
whether progressive or stationary.

To merely 41 look over" the Star and
Journal, instead of well-storing the
mind with their useful contents.

To indulge in loose conversation upon
anything and everything but the Gos-
pel.

To allow a household to retire to
rest, singly, and perhaps surly, without
one word of prayer for past favours or
future requirements

To be in such great haste to partake
of our food, that we can find neither
time nor inclination to ask a blessing
thereon.

To boast of possessing peculiar ill
feelings towards somebody that no one
can alleviate or destroy.

Digitized by Google

H1ST0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

023

To pride ourselves of being able to
smite dowxi the reasoning of a friend
•with the multitude of loud words, void
of meaning.

To sanction by word or look the epi-
thets of the truth-hater, only 44 to keep
frtends with everybody."

To make sport at another manifesting
an imperfection while searching for
knowledge, when our own wisdom is
wholly contained in the haw-haw! or
the sneer.

To be fond of showing ourselves at
sectarian meetings, under pretence of
getting a little good; when, with the
Saints, we have not the trouble of
sifting for the little — the whole being
good.

To spend a number of shillings yearly
for fasnion, tobacco, snuff, &c, when
'our emigration stands in such great
need of all our spare money.

The frequenting of the ale-house,
and using the glass as our companion,
until conscience and honest men justi-
fiably surname us 11 tipplers."

To exalt ourselves on the ruins of
others, lowering them in order to raise
our own importance.

To possess such self-importance that
the will must not bend even to the su-
periority of wisdom.

To cover the crime of present negli-
gence or lukewarmness by our past
mighty mountains of good works.

W. Fulleb.

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued fnm% p+g* 610.)

O my God ! when in one portion of our
country blood is flowing for the crime of
worshipping our Creator according to the
dictates of conscience or as the Spirit
directs, and in the other are great rejoicings
in consequence thereof, where, I ask, is
that boasted freedom for which our fathers
fought and bled?

O Thou who holdest the destinies of all
things in thine hands here below, return
these blessings unto us, that we may keep
them as precious jewels till time is no more.
But, Mr. Chairman, I am wandering too
far from the subject. I will return to the
persecutions which followed General Smith,
when his cheeks blossomed with the beauty
of youth, and his eyes sparkled with inno-
cence.

Those bigots soon soon made up a false
accusation against him, and had him
arraigned before Joseph Chamberlain, a
justice of the peace, a man that was always
readj to deal out justice to all, and a man
of great discernment of mind.

The case came on about 10 o'clock, a.m.
I was called upon to defend the prisoner.
The prosecutors employed the best counsel
thev could get, and ransacked the town of
Bainbridge and county of Chenango for
witnesses that would swear hard enough to
convict the prisoner ; but they entirely failed.
Tee, sir ; let me say to you that not one
.blemish nor spot was found against his
character. He came from that trial, not-
withstanding the mighty efforts that were
made to convict him of ciime~by his vigilant
persecutors, with his character unstained by
even the appearance of guilt.

The trial closed about twelve o'clock at

night. After a few moments' deliberation,
the court pronounced the words • Not guilty ,*
and the prisoner was discharged. But,
alas ! the Devil, not satisfied with his defeat,
stirred up a man not unlike himself, who
was more fit to dwell among the fiends of
hell than to belong to the human family,
to go to Colesville and get another writ, and
take him to Brocme county for another
trial. They were sure they could send that
boy to hell or to Texas, they did not care
which ; and in half an hour after he was
discharged by the court, he was arrested
again, and on the way to Colesville for
another trial.

I was again called upon by his friends to
defend him against his malignant perse-
cutors, and clear him from the false charges
they had preferred against him. I made
every reasonable excuse J could, as I was
nearly worn down through fatigue and want
of sleep, as I had been engaged in law-suitt
for two days and nearly the whole of two
nights. But I saw the persecution was
great against him; and here let me say,
Mr. Chairman, singular as it if ay seem*
while Mr. Knight was pleading with me to
go, a peculiar impression or thought struck;
my mind that I must go and defend him,
for he was the Lord's anointed. I did not
know what it meant, but thought I must go
and clear the Lord's anointed. I said I
would go, and started with as much faith
as the Apostles had when they could remove
mountains, accompanied by Father Knight,
who was like the old patriarchs that fol-
lowed the ark of God to the city of David.

We rode on till we came to the house of
Kczekiah Peck, where a number of Mormon

Digitized by

Google

624

H18T0HY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

women had assembled, as I was informed,
for the purpose of praying for the deliver-
ance ot the Prophet of the Lord. The
women came out to our waggon, and Mrs.
Smith among the rest.

O irfy God, sir, what were my feelings,
when I saw that woman, who had but a few
days before given herself, heart and hand,
to be a consort for life, and that so soon her
crimson cheeks must be wet with tears that
came streaming from her eyes ! Yes, sir,
it seemed that her very heart-strings would
be broken with grief. My feelings, sir,
were moved pity and sorrow for the afflicted ;
and on the other hand they were wrought
up to the highest pitch of indignation against
those fiends of hell who had thus caused the
innocent to suffer.

' The next morning, about ten o'clock, the
court was organized. The prisoner was to
be tried by three justices of the peace, that
his departure out of the county might be
made sure. Neither talents nor money
were wanting to ensure them success. They
employed the ablest lawyer in that county,
ana introduced twenty "or thirty witnesses
before dark, but proved nothing.

They sent out runners and ransacked the
hills and vales, grog-shops and ditches, and
gathered together a company that looked as
if they had come from hell, and had been
whipped by the sootboy thereof, which they
brought forward to testify one after another,
but with no better success than before.
Although they wrung and twisted into every
shape, m trying to tell something that would
criminate the prisoner, nothing was proven
against him whatever.

Having got through with the examina-
tion of their witnesses about two o'clock in the
morning, the case was argued about two
hours. There was not one particle of testi-
mony against the prisoner. No, sir ; he came
out like the three children from the fiery
furnace, without the smell of fire upon his
garments.

The court deliberated upon the case for
half-an-hour with closed doors, and then
we were called in. The court arraigned
the prisoner and said — "Mr. Smith, we
have had your case under consideration,
examined the testimony, and find nothing to
condemn you ; and therefore you are dis-
charged.'

They then proceeded to reprimand him
severely, — not because anything derogatory
to his character in any shape had been
proven against him by the host of witnesses
that had testified during the trial, but
merely to please those fnends in human
shape, who were engaged in the unhallowed

. persecution of an innocent man, sheerly on
account of his religious opinions.

1 After they had got through, I arose and
laid— 'This court puts me in mind of a

certain trial held before Felix of old, when
the enemies of Paul arraigned him before :
that venerable judge for some alleged crime*
and nothing was found in him worthy of
death or bonds. Yet, .to please the Jews
who were his accusers, he was left bound,
contrary to law, and this court has served
Mr. Smith in the same way, by their unlaw-
ful and uncalled for reprimand after his dis-
charge, to please his accusers.'

We got him away that night from the
midst of three hundred people without his
receiving any injury ; but I am well aware
that we were assisted by some higher power
than man ; for to look back on the scene, I
cannot tell how we^ucceeded in getting him
away. I take no glory to myself: it was
the Lord's work, and marvellous in our
eyes.

" This, Mr. Chairman, is a true history of
the first persecution that came upon General
Smith in his youth among professed Chris-
tians, and in a country heralded to the ends
of the earth as a land of freedom, where all
men have the constitutional right to worship
as they please and believe what they please*
without molestation, so long as they do not
interfere with the rights and privileges of
others; — yes, sir, a persecution got up
through the influence of religious bigotry by
as vile a set of men as ever disgraced the
family of man. But their devices against
him were brought to naught by that over-
ruling Power that controls all things, and
brings to naught the counsels of the wicked.

Mr. Chairman, little did I think that I
was defending a boy that would rise to emi-
nence like this man — a. man whom Qod
delights to honour as a Prophet and leader
of his people—one to whom he has given the
keys of heaven and earth, and the power of
David, and said to him, Whatsoever you.
bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and
the gates of hell shall not prevail against
you. And may he live to put his foot upon
the neck of his enemies in love and meek-
ness ! I know, sir, that God has made him
a leader of many thousands of people ; and
may he teach them in meekness, and with
that wisdom and judgment that God shall
direct

I add no more.'

The Convention adjourned sine die,

Uriah Brown, President.

F. Merryweather, Secretary."

I rode out in the afternoon.

About 6 p.m., a caucus was held; but,
Emma being sick, I could not attend.
At night a large assemblage burned a
barrel of tar in the street. I went out
to see what was the matter, and found
they were giving toasts ; and as soon as
they became aware of my presence, they
carried me on their shoulders twice

Digitized by

HISTORY 07 JOSEPH SMITH.

625

round the fire, and escorted me to the
Mansion by a band of music.

Elders Franklin D. Richards and
Joseph A. Stratton were ordained High
Priests and set apart to go on a mission
to England by Elders B. Young, H. G.
Kimball, and Willard Richards.

Saturday, 18. — At 9 a.m., I went
with Heber 0. Kimball to visit Presi-
dent Brigham Young, and afterwards
went out to the regimental training,
and also in the afternoon riding on my
horse " Joe Duncan."

At 5 p.m., two cannons were fired
opposite my old house, and the regi-
ments were dismissed.

The High Council cut off from the
Church James Blakesley, Francis M.
Higbee, Charles Ivins, and Austin
Oowles, for apostacy.

Sunday, 19. — Cloudy morning ; rain
about noon. I remained at home.
Elder Lyman Wight preached at the
stand in the morning. The usual
prayer meeting at 2 p.m. was dispensed
with, on account of the mud and rain.

In the evening I talked to the brethren
at my house, Esquire Reid, my old
lawyer, being present. W. W. Phelps
read my last letter to Henry Clay to the
company.

Monday, 20. — Emma continued very
sick, and I was with her most of the
time.

At 10 a.m., there was a meeting at the
stand for the purpose of collecting
means to enable Elder Lyman Wight to
go to Washington.

The Circuit Court oommenoed its
sitting at Carthage, Judge Thomas pre-
siding. Brother Phelps and many of the
brethren went. Phelps returned in the
evening with the intelligence that a
summons was supposed to be issued for
me to appear on the same case on which
I was set free by Habeas Corpus on the
8th inst. The lawyers agreed to move
an abatement. A good influence in
favour of the Saints appears to have
prevailed.

A general court-martial of the Legion
was held, Brevet Major General Hyrum
Smith presiding. It was adjourned to
the lOtn June next.

Tuesday, 2 1 . — A very pleasant morn-
ing. I rode out on horseback to the
prairie, with Porter Rockwell and Mr.
Reid. At 7 a.m., Elders Brigham
Young, H. C. KimbaH, Lyman Wight,

and about a hundred Elders, left this
city on the steamer Osprey (Captain
Anderson) for St. Louis.

The Maid of Iowa arrived at 8 a.m.,
with sixty-two Saints from the Eastern
States on board, all in good health and
spirits. The clerk, Thomas Bullock,
reported the fields on each side of the
river oovered with water to the depth of
upwards of sixteen feet, and all the
farms on the flats of the Mississippi
river were submerged, and the river
was still rising eight inches per day.
The Maid started up the river for
Wappelo on the Iowa river at 3 p.m.

I was at home towards night with
Emma, who is somewhat better. I
shovelled dirt out of the ditch, while
Wasson stood on the corner of the fence
to watch. An officer arrived having a
summons and an attachment to take me
to Carthage, but he could not find me.
I rode out in the evening to see David
Yearsley's child, who was sick, and
returned home at 9 p.m.

I copy from the Times and Seasons : —

"Newark, Kendal Co., 111., )
May 21, 1844. >

Editor of the Times and Seasons.

Dear Sir,— We arrived at Ottawa on the
17th inst., after driving four day3 through
constant rains, and over roads almost,
impassable for man or beast. We were
soon informed that the Conference was
removed twenty miles up Fox River, at the
Newark Branch.

Notice had been given for a political
address to be delivered in the Court House
in the evening by One of the Twelve : several
hundred citizens assembled, and were
addressed by Elder G. A. Smith. The
speaker considered General Smith the-
smartest man in the United States, and
best calculated to fill the presidential chair,
which was applauded by the assembly. His.
political views as presented on that occa-
sion seemed to please most of the people*
At the close of the speech the congregation
quietly dispersed. Elder Woodruff continued
his journey ten miles, and held a meeting
with the La Salle Branch of 46 members,
mostly emigrants from Norway. On the
18th we arrived at Newark, and attended
the Conference according to appointment..

The following is a copy of the minutes,
which we forward forpublication : —
* Newark, Kendall Co., 111.,
May 18, 1844.
Conference convened pursuant to notice.
There were present two of the Quorum
of the Twelve, one High Priest, two

Digitized by

626

HI8TOBY OF JO0XPH SMITE.

Seventies, nine Elders, one Priest, and one
Teacher.

Conference called to order by Elder
Woodruff.

Elder George A. Smith called to the chair.

Conference opened by singing, and prayer
by the President

Representation of the several Branches
was called for, when the following Branches
were represented as follows : —

Newark Branch, 35 members, 1 Elder, 1
Teacher; La Salle Branch, 46 members, 2
Elders, Ottawa Branch, 16 members, 2
Elders; Bureau Branch, 15 members, 3
Elders; Pleasant Grove. McHenry Co., 10
members, 2 Elders; Indian Creek Branch,
5 members; Big Vermillion Branch, 4
members ; French Creek Grove Branch, 2
members. Total, 133 members, 10 Elders,
and 1 Teacher.

Canute Petersen, Severt Olson, Zimri H.
Baxter, Levi Lightfoot, Simpson D. Huffa-
ker, Mades, Madison, Vance Jacobs, and
Oder Jacobson, were ordained Elders ; also
Henry Saba, ordained a Priest ; Ole Johnson
and Peter Maclin ordained Teachers, under
the hands of Elders Wilford Woodruff, Geo.
A. Smith, and Ezra Thayer.

Appropriate remarks were then made by
Elders Woodruff and Smith, by way of
counsel and instruction to those who had
been ordained; followed by Elder David
Savage.

Adjourned until Sunday morning, 10
o'clock.

Sunday, 19th.

Met according; to adjournment.

Opened by singing and prayer by Elder
A. M. Wilsey.

A discourse was then delivered by Elder
Wilford Woodruff, in which he instructed
the Elders to be careful to preach the first
principles of the Gospel and doctrines of
Christ, and not to spend their time in
warring with the opinions of other men ;
showed the importance of revelation, and
the necessity of a Prophet of God, as the
head of the Church on earth, being as
necessary in order to exist and advance
in knowledge as ' for a natural body to
possess a head in order to live. He con-
sidered we were enjoying the society of as
good a Prophet in this day as any people
ever enjoyed in any age of the world, and
believed all good men would think so, if
they were fully acquainted with him and
his principles.

He was followed by Elder Geo. A. Smith,
who bore testimony to the truth of the
fulness of the Gospel, counselled the Elders
to be humble, and not get head and
shoulders above their brethren, lest they
fall, like the tallest trees of the forest, that
are first swept down by the raging storm.

Two o'clock, met according to adjourn-
ment, when the sacrament was administered,
and many testimonies given from the Elders
and members present concerning the truth
of the work they had received.

Conference was dismissed amid the best
of feelings, which was manifested not only
by all the Saints, but by the whole congre-
gation of citizens that attended. Good
order prevailed through the whole Confer-
ence. Attention , kindness, and civility were
manifested by all.

Geo. A. Smith, President.

Asa Manchester, Clerk.'

At the dose of the Conference* Elders C.
C. Rich, David Fullmer, Henry Jacobs, and
Moses Smith arrived direct from Nauvoo,
on their way to Michigan.

20th.

We have appointed a political meeting
in Newark, this evening, and one at Juliet
to-morrow evening, where we expect to
present to the citizens General Smith's
views of the Powers and Policy of the.
Government, and discuss the subject of
politics.

W. Woodruff,
Geo. A. Smith."

Wednesday, 22. — At home, watching,
as the officers from Carthage were after
me.

At 10 a.m., about 40 Indians of the
Sacs and Foxes came up in front of the
Mansion, four or five of them being
mounted, among whom was Black
Hawk's brother, Kis-kish-kee, &c. I
was obliged to send word I could not
see them at present. They encamped
in the Council Chamber afternoon and
night. I was with the police on doty,
and saw several individuals lurking
around.

Very pleasant day.

President Brigham Young preached
to the brethren in St. Louis this
evening.

A remarkable reaping machine has been tried in a village near Newcastle. Its weight
does not exceed 670 lbs.; one horse can draw it, and yet it does as much work in as
little time as the ponderous vehicles that require the services of three horses. The
inventor is the son of a Northumbrian fanner.

Digitized by

, KDITOBXAL.

627

THE LATTER-BAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, Skftbmbbk 28, 1861.

BE VELATION.

At first thought it may appear very surprising that there should be such an
indifference manifested by man towards the important principle of direct
revelation from God to man — that precious gift which was enjoyed anciently
by numbers of individuals of whom the Bible speaks. Also that when the prin-
ciple is declared to them and proved to be a scriptural one, they do not receive
it gladly, instead of opposing and denouncing it. At first thought, we say, it ap-
pears surprising ; but if we reflect upon the injury that would be inflicted upon
the kingdom and influence of Satan by this principle being received and acted
upon, and know what power he has over the minds of the people, we shall cease
to feel any surprise. There is no principle that has received more bitter
opposition, since the organization of the Church in these latter days upon the
earth, than this. There was no principle that was more hated in ancient days ;
yet it is a principle which, if believed in and fully and properly acted upon by
man, would confer more important benefits and blessings upon him than any
other ; because, if he should fully enjoy this principle and be governed by the
knowledge he would receive through it, he would appreciate and practise every
other principle of truth which would be revealed unto him as he would be
prepared to receive it. Man would thus become perfect as his Father in heaven is
perfect. This, of course, Satan does not want; hence he fills his adherents with
hatred and animosity towards the principle of revelation, and towards the men
who teach it; and they are inspired by him to seek their lives. In this manner,
by the cunning of the Adversary of souls, roan is converted into the destroyer
of his own happiness, and is arrayed on the side of his greatest enemy.

What revelation did for men who obtained it in ancient days, the Bible partly,
but very plainly describes. It gave them a signal superiority in every respect
oyer their contemporaries who did not possess the gift. By its power thrones
were upheld, nations were saved from destruction, and men were not unfre-
qnently elevated from the lowest and most ignoble positions to rank and station ;
and even the Lord Jesus himself owed his deliverance from the sword of the
child-slayer Herod to it. Theto was no righteous man, of whom the Bible gives
us any account, but who had recourse to its aid, and always- successfully.
Whenever a difficulty arose between two nations or two individuals, the contest
was invariably in favour of the one who could obtain knowledge through this
principle. By the knowledge and light it bestowed, men were aided in every
department of life, in the discharge of the most lowly and simple, as well as the
moat exalted and intricate duties that devolved upon them. Saul learned
through it that his father's asses which he sought were found. Joseph obtained
such wisdom as enabled him to arrange for the subsistence of a large nation
through a seven years' famine. Abraham, we are informed by record, made

reat progress in the knowledge of astronomy and other sciences ; and many

Digitized by

Google

628

KDITOBIAL.

other men eminently distinguished themselves in various ways, benefiting them-
selves and all around them who would be governed by their counsels.

What revelation from the Almighty to man on the' earth has done -in these
days is plainly visible to the observant. How many perils have the people of
God escaped through its warnings ! How much misery and woe might the
human family have escaped, if they had only believed it possible for the Lord to
speak now as he once did ! America might now have been free from civil war ;
Europe might escape the terrible destruction for which she is arming; Asia
might have been spared the famine from which she is emerging, and the pestilence
which is now committing its dreadful ravages among her Indian population. But
it is not only on these points that the superiority of the believers and recipients
of revelation is apparent; for while unbelievers in the principle are floundering
in the midst of the most absurd and erroneous theories upon many points,
writing book after book, and spending valuable time in propounding and contro-
verting ideas, without being able to arrive at anything definite or satisfactory,
they to whom knowledge has been communicated by revelation are lifted up, far
above the mists of doubt and uncertainty, to a purer element where they can see
and know the truth.

To illustrate this fact more fully, we may ask, What do the world know
about the lost ten tribes of Israel P Volumes have been written to prove
that their descendants are in America, others that they are in Asia, and others
again in Africa. Travellers have sought for them, but in vain. But when
God spoke respecting them, those who believed what he revealed had no more room
N for speculation as to whether the American Indians, or the Jews in China, or the
Jews in Africa were they, or not : they knew that the ten tribes were not among
any of those nations, and that the theories of men respecting their whereabouts
were incorrect. So also with the ruined cities of Central America, which excited
the attention of the learned at the time of their discovery and exploration about
twenty years ago. How many speculations were indulged in as to who were the
builders of those beautifully finished and extensive cities ! Were the ancestors of
the present American Indians their builders P or were there another race superior
to them, and which had succumbed before them, by whom these cities had been
built and inhabited P were questions often asked. But revelation had cleared
away all uncertainty upon these points for its believers. The history of genera-
tions and ages lay unrolled before them, and they could satisfy themselves
respecting all the particulars. Before the cities were discovered, revelation had
pointed out the country where they had formerly stood, and the discovery cor-*
roborated its truth. The location, also, of the garden of Eden is a matter that
has occupied the attention of many, and been much mooted. Explorations have
been made to find the spot ; but, notwithstanding all the efforts made in that
direction, they have proved utterly fruitless and vain. Revelation, however, has
sent forth its ray of light upon the sacred spot of " Adam-ondi-Ahman," leaving
the speculations of men to wither in the shade. So, likewise, it is with the dis-
puted question of the origin of man, and kindred subjects, now occupying the
attention of the learned and philosophic world. The sum of all their knowledge
is that they know nothing about the matter. But one single gleam of revelation,
thiown like a sunbeam upon the subject, makes visible, as- it were, the darkness
of mere human theories, which are at best but the offspring of ignorance and
, uncertainty, while it irradiates the mind of the believer, and opens the way to
the attainment of true knowledge, which is certain and sure, eternal and divine.

Digitized by

C0BBE8P0NDBNCS.

629

Abstract op News from the Conferences. — Elder Owen, writing from
Newport, on the 13th instant, informs us "that the work is still moving on
steadily in that Conference, and that the Spirit of the Gospel is increasing in the
hearts of the Saints as a general thing. 1 '

Elder W. G. Smith, in a letter dated Cheltenham, Sept. 21, says—" I feel that
I can say in truth that this Conference is getting along very well at this time,
considering all things. The Saints that compose the Conference are a kind,
warm-hearted people : they feel to do everything that will add to the comfort of
the Travelling Elders, and also forward the purposes of God. There is quite a
number of the lost sheep working back towards the sheepfold again, and I think
will soon be numbered among the Saihtp ; and I am doing what I can to bring
-about this event."

CORRESPONDENCE.

LONDON DISTRICT.

Kent, Sept. 12, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — It is with pleasure
that I write to let you know of tnc pros-
perity of the cause of truth in the Lon-
don District.

We are improving, and are somewhat
on tfie increase. According to the daily
papers in London, we are doing an ex-
treme business. They have reported
the departure from London of no less
than three companies of Saints for Zion
since the sailing of the Monarch of the
Sea. Only a few days ago it was
Btated that a party of seventy " Mor-
mons" left London under the presidency
of Elder (iibbs for Liverpool, en route
for Zion, being the contingent of the
London District to a company that were
to sail in a few days lor New York.
The editor of one paper seemed to re-
joice that England had got rid of seventy
more of that despised people, and was
only sorry that the Elders could not all
be sent out of the country. It was a
pity that "Mormonism" should be
tolerated at all. I am not acquainted
with Elder Gibbs and party, and know
nothing of their departure ; but I sup-
pose it must be so, as it was announced
in all the London papers.

There is a very good spirit existing
Among the Saints ; and all, with few ex-
ceptions, are doing the best they can to
live their religion, support the cause
both by their faith and means, and work
out their salvation and deliverance from
Babylon.

The desire to gather as soon as pos-
sible is almost universal, Some who
, have lately embraced the faith paid into
the emigration fund means for their
deliverance before they were baptized, t

Many of the Elders are diligent in
out-door preaching, and thereby doing
much good. They meet with very little
opposition. On one occasion a minister
asked a poor man who was listening to,
the Elders and reading the tracts — " Do
the Mormons give you anything P" The
man said, "No." " Well, here is a
shilling for you. Don't go to hear them
any more, nor read their, tracts, and I
will send you some beefsteaks."

We have a steady increase to our
numbers. We lately baptized ten in
London, and there is a-good prospect for
more. Within the last month there have
been twelve baptized in the Kent, and
six or eight in the Essex Conference.

With respects, I am, as ever, your
brother in Christ,

John Brown.

norwich district.

Norwich, Sept. 7, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I embrace the present
opportunity of writing to you by way of
posting you up with reference to the
work of our God in this part of the vine-
yard.

Since my last to you, I haye travelled
pretty much through the entire District,
and visited nearly every Branch; and I
am hhppy to say that the maiority of
the Saints are doing about the best that

Digitized by

630

COBBBBPONDBKOX*

they know how, and feel a lively interest
in the great cause of truth, and in the
establishment of the kingdom of our
God. But I am sorry to say that some
are a little slow in their movements, and
feel that a great deal ought to be done
for them, exercising but little faith in the
promises of our God that he will gather
his elect from the four quarters of the
earth, and make their feet sure on the
rock of Christ in the land of Zion.
However, I am happy to say that this
number is very small in our District.
Very nearly all feel a determination to
put their shoulders to the wheel and roll
on the cause of Zion.

Since my last to you, I have had the
happy privilege of baptizing a few, and
of organizing a Branch of the Church in
the town of Northampton, and left them
feeling buoyant in the good Spirit of our
God. I nnd in a number of places
that many of the honest in heart who in
days gone by stepped out of the fold
are now returning, as in the town above-
mentioned. The truth still sticks to
them, and many go to every one of the
forms of godliness, but find no power
therein. It is because the light of truth
has made its way to their understand-
ings, and loosed the dark veil from their
eyes, and they have had the privilege of
basking in the light of G id's favour to
them, and of walking in the sunshine
and light of heaven. This is why many
return, and we baptize them and re-
ceive them again into the great fold of
Christ, and leave' them rejoicing in that
which they were once so happy in. It
gladdens our hearts to witness the rolling
on of the work of God, the upbuilding
of the great Latter-day Zion, and the
ushering in of that great reign of peace
that had been promised so long to our
fathers, who had to die without the
sight. But thanks be to our God, he has
snoken again from the heavens, and

fiven us the privilege of establishing his
ingdom and bringing in the great reign
of peace, that his wffl may be done on
earth as it is done in heaven.

In the course of our travels, we find
many that believe the Gospel, but are
afraid to embrace it, because some one
might perhaps point the finger of scorn
at them for embracing a doctrine every
way like the ancient Gospel, and so very
unpopular, that they cannot break off
their old traditions and embrace it. ,

We find nearly everywhere a depres-
sion of trade, caused by the troubles in
America, and the prospect is not very .
flattering that it will get better soon ;
but the great majority of the Saints in
our District, notwithstanding the bad
times, feel willing to do all they can
financially for the spread of the Gospel
and the building up of Zion.

The Priesthood are, as a general thing,
actively engaged with us. Many feel
such a yearning deBire for the spread of
the truth, that they walk miles on the
Sabbath to bear testimony to it. Our
out-door preaching is often attended
with great success ; and, with the un-
tiring energy of many of our Travelling
Ministry, we feel that mueh good seed
has been sown, and bread cast upon the
water, that we shall see after many days.
It fills our heart with great joy and satis-
faction to know that faithful testimony
is being borne to this generation, and
that we find men endowed with power
from on high going forth to declare the
simple truth as God has unfolded it in
these the latter days.

With reference to our baptisms, we
may not be doing so much as some, but
we are happy to say that in nearly every
Branch the good work is going on ; far
we are baptizing nearly every week, and
many are bearing their testimony to
the truth, and the gifts of the Gospel
follow their works. Our in-door meet-
ings are pretty well attended by
strangers, but not so well as they are
when the weather is more cooL
From the good seed that has been sown
during the summer, we look forward
with fond anticipation that we shall do
a good work in the coming autumn and
winter ; for there is quite a number of
our friends* that have more time to
attend when the weather is cold and the
nights dark.

In the course of our travels, we find
in many places that the work of our
God is looked upon verj differently
from what it was years ago, or even
one year ago. So mighty have been the
overturnings, that a great many look at
it through very different eyes. The late
troubles in our native land, America,
have caused many to look with wonder
and surprise. Indeed it is marvellous in
our eyes to see the great calamity that
has befallen that nation. But when we
take another view of the matter, and

Digitized by

COBBBSPONDBNCB.

631

compare "what our ancient fathers
have said in reference to those mat-
ters with the mission of Joseph and his
followers, we cease to wonder that the
people of that" nation war and spill each
other's Wood ; for in their skirts is to be
found the blood of Prophets and the
blood of Saints that were martyred for
the testimony of Jesus.

The Saints in our District have an eye to
those terrible troubles, and are making
every preparation to fulfil the com-
mand of our God to come out of her
(Babylon), that they be not partakers of
her sins, and receive not of her plagues ;
for they are sure that her sins have
reached unto heaven.

I have word from Elders Bull and
Bentley. They write favourably con-
cerning the work of God where they are
now labouring. My kind love to the
Presidency. Praying God to bless all
jour efforts,

I am your brother in the truth,

Elias H. Blackburn.

DURHAM CONFERENCE.

Sunderland, Sept. 13, 1861.
President Gannon.

Dear Brother,— The Saints in this
Conference are few in number, and
*re scattered over a large extent of
country, extending forty miles from
north to south, and the same from east
to west, embracing quite a number of
important towns and many villages,
thus offering an ample- opportunity to
declare the principles which God has
revealed, in order that peace might be
restored to earth, and man be raised to
that noble position to which he was
■destined by his Creator.

Although we have only added thirty-
two in such an extent of country during
the past half-year, I believe that much
greater good has been done by intro-
ducing " Mormonism," as it is called, to
a class of people to whom it was unknown,
unless through the pen of the slan-
derer, or the tongue of the bigot. Many
of this class say that our religion is
more reasonable now than it was at the
beginning, and that there is at last a
chance for us to realize some of our
hopes; and some of them, on that ac-
count, speak of emigrating before they

think of obeying the first principles.
Wherever I have the opportunity of
fully introducing the plan which God
has revealed for the present and future
redemption of a fallen, degraded world,
it carries an influence and power with
many of that class that I have not wit-
nessed the like during the last twenty
years. Truly God is at work with the
nations, and men begin to feel it.

The Saints also, I am happy to state, -
are learning that there is more implied
in the plan of redemption than praying,
fasting, going to meeting, &c. They
begin to understand that to have a king-
dom of peace will reuuire peace-makers ;
and, to obtain the tavour of God, they
themselves must be- friends to truth,
which is ever a friend to erring human-
ity; thus the Saints understand that
God's plan of redemption is the true
philosophy of human life, which will
make a man great and good in this
world, which is the only true policy of
preparing for the next.

I am truly thankful that God has
sustained this kingdom until it has
attained its present position, in which
position it holds out to the entire world
a proof which cannot reasonably be
denied that the arm of Omnipotence has
sustained it. "Why? Because they
themselves know the opposition they
have heaped against it : they have ever
declared our weakness, our folly, and
wickedness; yet we increase rapidly
— increase not in numbers alone, but
also in power amongst the inhabitants
of the earth, and in peace and prosperity
among ourselves. These consequences
are nothing more than what the
Elders have declared from the beginning
would bethe case, thus giving ampleproof
of their confidence in the promises of
God towards this kingdom, and that
Prophets do live, and that God regards
them by fulfilling their sayings, as he
has in all ages of the world. But still
some men, as blind as in other ages,
continue to ask for proof of the divinity
of this work, with all these truths
before them — as great proofs as were
ever given by God or man to any people*
To such we would almost be inclined to
say that more evidence will be given
as assuredly as those we have already
received ; but we much fear they will not
be prepared to meet them, for they will
come in earthquakes, and in thunders

Digitized by

632

8TTMMAST.

and lightnings, and by the sword, while
famine and pestilence will give the last
proof that wickedness must cease, that
the earth may enjoy her sabbath of rest,
and the meek among men inherit the
same ; for which I long and pray, and

hope that I may so lire that I may-
enjoy this rest with all the faithful of

I remain, dear sir, with kind regards,,
yours faithfully,

Samuel Harcjraves.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Germany.— The Catholic society ofFrank-
fort, in a general meeting of that body, has
called on M. Dollinger, the Professor of
Canon Law, to retract the opinions he ex-
pressed in some of his recent lectures on the
temporal power of the Pope. The professor
has been compelled to make a fall recanta-
tion, and to declare the temporal power
essential to the spiritual supremacy of the
Holy See.

Switzerland. — The Evangelical Alliance,
at its late meeting at Geneva, appointed a
special committee to prepare a resolution on
the subject of the American war, which, on
being submitted to the members generally,
was unanimously adopted. It was as fol-
lows:— "The Conference of Christians of
all countries assembled at Geneva testifies
to its brethren of the United States the
lively sympathy which it feels for them in
the terrible crisis wuich desolates their
country. The members of this assembly
desire to pray fervently that these deplo-
rable^ events may be turned to the advance-
ment" of the interests of humanity, of
liberty, and of the kingdom of God. Con
vinccd that the existence of slavery is the
cause of the war, the Conference prays to
the Lord to incline the hearts of his chil-
dren in America to bring about by wise and
Christian measures the suppression of tfiis
institution, which is as contrary to the spirit
of the Gospel as it is to the peace, progress,
and prosperity of that great nation. And
since our brethren of the United States have
set apart the 26th instant as a day of
solemn humiliation and prayer, the Con-
ference invites Christians of different coun-
tries to unite on that day before the Throne
of Grace to pray with their brethren in re-
gard to their present trial, remembering
that if one member sutler, all the others
suffer with it"

Spain. — The Correrpondancia declares
in the most positive terms that Spam will
now act on her own account against Mexico,
and demand reparation of her long-standing
grievances. A Spanish squadron is on its
way to Cuba, where several thousand troops
are ready to embark. This expedition has
been long in preparation, and a steamer is
about to start for Cuba with the final in-
structions of the Government.

Poland. — The state of things at Warsaw
is gloomy. Popular excesses continue to>
take place, shops demolished, windows,
smashed, and furniture destroyed by the
mob. without any interference on the part
of the police who were present. On the
night of September 19, the Polish mob con-
tinued to commit acts of violence against
the German residents in Warsaw. Several
shops were demolished. The situation of
the Germans is full of danger. No mea-
sures for their protection are taken by the
authorities.

Montenegro. — France and England
favour Montenegro, and England is for the
principle of non-intervention. The whole
military strength of Montenegro — thai is
to say, all the males from 18 to 66 — has
marched to the north frontier. Prince
Nicholas has put himself at the head of the
Guides. The war standard, bearing a
white cross on a red ground, is floating
before the palace of the Prince. Hostilities
have also been opened in the south by Abdi
Pasha, who made an attack upon the
Christians of Yranina. But the Serbs of
that place killed thirty Turks, made nine
prisoners, and destroyed the fortress of
Koscielna. All the inhabitants of that isle
of Lake Scutari have fled to the moun-
tain."

Russia.— The Emperor of Russia has
granted to the foreign Jews settled at
Odessa permission to reside there perma-
nently, and to engage in trade ; but the
provisions of the law on passports and
vagabondage are to be strictly enforced as to
those Jews who have more recently arrived
in the country. Another Imperial order
confirms to the Jewish cfeftens of Nicolaiew
and Sebastopol the same rights as to trade*
commerce, and domicile, as those possessed
by the other inhabitants. The Courier
J Odessa states that the swarms of locusts
that descended on the peninsula of Kertcfa
had been nearly exterminated by the pea-
sants, but that these insect pests had ra-
vaged and destroyed many fields of wheat
in the districts of Theodosia, Simpheropol,
and Perekop. In the governments of Po-
dolia, Kieff, and Tchernigotf, the destruction
caused by the locusts is reported to be
enormous.

Digitized by

Google

VABIBTIE8.

683

Australia. — Rioting has commenced at
Lambing 1 Flat, a place in the centre of the

Sild fields, where the most disorderly of
e rioters congregate, and who resolved to
drive the Chinese emigrants from the dis-
trict. This led to a collision , and eventually
to a pitched battle with the military police,
in which the rioters were put down and
several killed. The rioters afterwards as-
sembled in such numbers that the police
were forced to withdraw. By the last
accounts, the district was in the hands of the
rioters, but troops were assembling from all
quarters.

India. — Accounts from Meerut and Agra
bring most heartrending stories of the ra-
vages which the cholera is inflicting in those
ana the surrounding districts in India.
Among the natives the mortality is fearful,
especially of that class Which was more
subject to the influences of the famine, and
the members of which thereby became pre- .

disposed to disease. But the scourge hat
not confined itself to the natives. In the
bungalows and the barracks it rages with
almost equal force, and many officers and
men have fallen victims to its fury.

America. — A New York despatch says
the schooner Middlcton, with naval stores
from Charleston to Liverpool, was seized by
the frigate Roanoke while trying to run the
blockade. Eight more vessels were seized
by the Government officers. It is reported
that the Confederates are re-concentrating
in the vicinity of the Chain Bridge. The
Petersburg Express gives an account of the
taking of Fort Hatteras, and says that a
portion of the wounded escaped in a steam-
boat It gives the number of killed and
wounded at about 80, and says that those
who escaped from the fort contend that the
magazine exploded. The excitement through
out North Carolina and Eastern 'Virginia is
intense.

VARIETIES.

Bad Teeth. — Liebig asserts that the- English people, on the whole, have very bad teeth,
and does not hesitate to ascribe this dental deficiency to the practice of eating white bread
with alum in it. The sulphuric acid in the alum decomposes the phosphate of limo in the teeth.

Polygamy. — 41 Under the old dispensation, polygamy was practised by eminently pious
men, who, while continuing in that state, were singularly blessed of the Almighty, without
a single word of reproof, of intimation of God's displeasure being addressed to them on -account
of it. (iii.) From this circumstance, and the additional facts that passages occur in theMoasic
law, expressly recognising the existence of polygamy, and that pot a word is found in.
the law or the Prophets, denouncing, or in any way condemning it, I am led to conclude that,
though not in accordance with the mind and will of the Creator, it was yet suffered by Him
to endure for a season, and is not to be regarded by us as being in all cases and under all
circumstances (that is, without reference to the Knowledge of his will, possessed by the
persons who practise it,) sinfal and displeasiug in his sight, (iv.) lam confirmed in this
view by finding that, whereas the Mosaic law punished adultery with death, no punishment
of any kind is assigned in it to thepolygamist; and polygamy is only noticed in the law to
correct certain evils connected with it. I conclude, therefore, that polygamy was not con-
sidered to be adultery in the case of the Jews, (v.) Neither is it to be considered adultery
among the Kaffirs or Zulus, who, in fact, though heathens and polygamists, distinctly punish
and condemn the adulterer. (vi.J From the examples of the Ola Testament, I infer that,
though marriage, in the high ana proper sense ox the word, can only exist between one
Christian man and one Christian woman, in which case it sets forth the mysterious union
betwixt Christ and his Church, yet there have been marriages of another kind permitted, or
at least 4 winked at' by Almighty God, 4 in the days of man's ignorance,' — marriages which
were lawful and binding, though not made according to the great marriage law orparadise.
(vii.) I believe the marriages of the Kaffirs and the Zulus, to be precisely of this kind, and
very probably derived from the days of Abraham himself, through their Arab descent,
(viii.) It is certain that such marriages cannot be violently broken without ve'fy serious
wrong and injury to the wives put away against their will, and to their children, (ix.)
Henoe, in dealing with the case of a poiysramist convert from heathenism, we have to choose
between two evils j either we must allow him to retain his wives and children, and discharge
his duties towards them, until it pleases God himself in his Providence to interfere and
release him from his obligations ; or we must compel him to commit an act or acts of cruel
hardship and wrong to others, and dismiss his wives and children, perhaps to rot and perish
in the aoominations of heathenism, (x. ) I find no direction of the Apostles, and no authority
of the ancient church, to guide me in this difficulty, (xi.) But I find a case somewhat
similar provided for by St. Paul, who strictly charges a Christian to marry 4 in the Lord, 9
yet allows — nay, requires, a Christian who had married a heathen before baptism to retain.
Lis wife, unless she choose to leave him, — however strange and unhallowed such a connection
may seem to ns, however likely to interfere with his own progress, and t o corrupt the morals
of his children ; and a Christian wife, in like manner, to remain with her heathen husband.
And I find also cases of incatuovs marriages, contracted before conversion, which wext

Digitized by

Google

684

MONEY LIST. POBTBY.

-flowed in former days, in our own English Church, to continue after the reception of
Christianity, (xii. ) Under these circumstances, and considering that polygamy was tolerated
by the Almighty in the case of so many good men of old, and that, consequently, it is not
■infill and wicked in itself and contrary to all religion, though it is contrary to the spirit of
Christianity, (whereas acts of injustice and wrong are positively smful and wicked, and
contrary to religion itself, as well as to the spirit of Ch/isfianity.) I believe it to be the lesser
evil of the two, and, indeed, the only righteously possible course .to allow a polygamist
convert, whose wives do not choose to leave him, to retam them, with the und-ers^dmr
that he shall take no more, exhorting him to endeavour, by <*od s grace, tc > live .as a fidthfol
servant of the Most High among them, according to

the polygamist Abraham of old, 'to command them and his children after him to do jostle*
adjudgment, and to keep the way of the Lord.' (Letter to the Archbishop of Canterbury,
by Dr. Colenso, Bishop of Natal.)

MONEY LIST-JULY 1st TO SEPT. Hth, 186L

8. L. Adams ..
Vf. Dallin
B. Brown
8. Hargraves .
L. Bowen
W. Hopwood
W. Thurgood .,

A. Orme

J. 8. Brown .
H.W.Barnett.
T. Crawley
G. Reed

B. Palmer
J; Clark
B. Price
B. Cliff

Carried forward, £91 14 11J

£10 1

6 10

2 10

2 1

5 18

8 1

12 18

2 6

7 6

5 1

13 8

10 11

6 11

Brot. fwd.

C. Welch
8. H. B. Smith
W. S. Baxter
P. De la Mare
Hugh Evans ...
J. Griffiths ...
W. H. Dame ...

D. M. Davies...
W. H. Pitts ...
J. C. Graham...
R: Bentley ...
W. G. Smith...
R. Hodgert M .
T. O. lung ...
T. W. Rees ...

£91
4

12
4
3

21
1
2

10
9
2
4
3

1411J

5 8

17 7«

12 2
4
7 6
2 11}

16 0}

7 8

8 3

13 2

6 1*

18 8
13 9

Carried forward, £189 14 10}

Brot. fwd.
J. Lindsay
A. Nelson
G. G. Bywater
W. C. Staines..
7. Gibbs
W.G. Mills
Mark Barnes ..

J. Bull

R. Sands
W. Reid
Thomas Lies .<
E. Henriod ..
J. Noedham ..

Total

£189 14 10|
. 5 3
, 7 13
6 12 0}
. 47 18 10
. 2 4 9
• 30 18 11
. 3 19 10}
. 8 18 J 6
. 16 4 9
.400

4
11
11

« 71

£347 6 5J

POETRY,

THE APOSTATE'S DEATH.

Alas, Jibe gloomy shades of death

Are setting on his smitten brow:
The feeble poise, the heaving breath,

Declare a sad departure now.
But ah! he lingers yet awhile

Upon the verge of mortal years ;
Beyond he sees no deathless smile

To dissipate his gloomy fears.
Oh, now the lamp he cast away

To him would prove a light indeed :
The Gospel's life diffusing ray

He feels to be his only need.

How can he pass the gates of gloom
Or tie** thi chambers of the dead ?

Dublin,

How dark, how dreary Is the tomb,
Because the light of life has (led.

Oh, had he kept the way of life.
And turned not to the path of sin.

Angels would cheer this hour of strife,
And bear htm on, life's crown to win.

But ah! he sinned; from grace he feD;

He turned his noonday into night:
Now, he has gasped his last farewell :

Earth fades from his bewildered sight

Let not his latter end be mine ;

Lord, lot me serve thee evermore !
May I in endless glory shine

With thee, when death's dark reign is o'er.

RlCHAAD SjCTTf.

CONTENTS.

Obedience Bringeth Blessings 919 Brown, Blackburn, and Hargraves-...

Little Evils 033 Summary of News and Passing Events..

History of Joseph Smith „ 633 Varieties...

BdltoiisL— Revelation.--Ab5tractof News. 637 Money last -

Correspondence —England : Letters from Elders Poetry.— The Apostate's Death ~

. 6Sf
. 6SS
6U
. 634
. 634

XiIVERPOOIi :

BDITBB, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 43, ISLINGTON.
LONDON :

fOB SALE AT TBI LATTBB.DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT V ?0. FLORENCE STREET, GR0899TBBK
ISLINGTON i AND ALL BOOKSBLBR?.

Digitized by

TEE LATTER-DAT SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAK.

** A noise tkaU come even to the ends of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with thenations: hevM
plead with all flesh; he urtUgive them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord."— J uuuc lib.

Ho. 40, Vol. XX hi.

Saturday, October 5, 1861.

Price One Penny.

UNIVERSAL EMPIRE.

The exalted destiny which awaits the
kingdom of God, and which the' future
will reveal, is a subject that inspires
the Saints with many bright hopes and
glorious anticipations. When they
compare the dark and troublous past
through which it has already travelled
with its present peaceful and proud
position, ' they have much" cause for
thankfulness ; but when they compare
that past and the present with the
brilliant future yet in the distance, and
soan, with an eye of faith, the tran-
scendency of those glories which will
shed their eternal radiance upon it,
and which the most fervid imagination
can form but a dim c o — e ption of, their
souls may well thrill with the rapid pul-
sations of swelling joy, and their bosoms
heavo with proud emotions, while praise
and thanksgivings rise to the heavens in
unison and love, from grateful hearts,
for the day having arrived, so earnestly
looked forward to by holy men of yore,
when God's kingdom would be estab-
lished upon the earth.

To arrive at universal empire has
been the day-dream of many of earth's
proudest children, whose names stand
highest on the blazoned scroll of fame,
and who have waded to eminence and
power through blood, tears, and ruins.
Sparing neither age nor sex, friend nor
foe, who stood in their pathway to am-
bition's highest pinnacle, they deluged

the earth with blood, and marked their
tracks with desolation and misery, in
the vain hope to obtain universal domi-
nion. The merciless acts an<J bloody
purposes of some of these aspirants to
unlimited power form the darkest pages
in the records of a world whose history
teems with crimes, and whose greatest
recognised heroes were often its greatest
criminals. Boldly and daringly .were
their ' plans conceived, ruthlessly and
relentlessly were they executed; and
war, in all its mad play of conflicting
elements, seemed but a toy at their dis-
posal, as they rode on the topmost crest
of the wrUHornado of strife, like embo-
died spirits of vengeance let loose upon
humanity, while they watched with
exultant glance the devastation spread
around, as they swept their way towards
the pinnacle of universal empire—a
int they were never destined to reach,
sn sometimes talk of this nation or
that power having swayed universal
dominion, but in doing so they speak
oomparatWely. No nation has ever yet
attained to such a position — no man has
ever controlled the destinies of the earth ;
and the very means by which the
greatest and mightiest empires of the
earthgained their preeminence precluded
the possibility of their retaining it.
Almost every schoolboy has heard the
anecdote of the Macedonian Alexander,
who is said to have sat down and wept

Digitized by

Google

636 x

UNIYERSAL EMPIBE.

because there were no other worlds he
could conquer. This might be called a
historical fiction, for he had not con-
quered the world he lived in, neither all
the countries with which he was
acquainted. To the north lay the
Scythians, who, though defeated, but
unconquered, spurned his sovercij|nty
with contempt ; to the west the various
tribes that inhabited Gaul ; while to the
east lay the regions of farther India,
where his troops refused to follow him :
so that even Alexander di4 not attain to
what might have been called universal
empire in his day. From the vast
extent of country conquered and go-
verned by several nations at different
period of the world's age, they have been
spoken of as having gained this wide-
spread dominion. Thus Babylon, Per-
sia, Greece for a brief period, and Borne,
which stand conspicuous as the four
great powers of ancient times, have
been severally looked upon as having
attained to universal empire, (but such
was not the case,) while other nations
in more recent times have wielded for
a space, almost if not altogether, as
great power, and exercised sway over
nearly as wide dominion, that have not
such an exalted position assigned to
them. Babylon's dominions were con-
fined almost exclusively to Asia ; Persia
vainly endeavoured to subjugate Greece,
by whom she was ultimately conquered ;
Alexander's conquests were bounded, as
has already been observed; and Borne,
in her days of most wide-spread domi-
nion, saw a duplex crown governing her
eastern and western parts, whose con-
tending hosts were often marshalled
against each other. But coming farther
down the channel of time, we find
Jiahomedanism struggling hard for
universal conquest, urged on by fiery
seal and impetuous valour, the succes-
sors of Mahomet carried the crescent
ifom Asia to Europe, till their attempts
at universal subjugation were suc-
cessfully contested by the growing
might of tho west. Still later on,
Tamarlane swept like a fierce scourge
from China to Turkey, and threatened
for a time to subjugate humanity to
his ruthless power; while, in more
modern times, the first Napoleon aimed
at, aod avowed his desire of realizing,
universal empire.

To some these facts may appear dry,
but they are cited to make certain

deductions from them that may have a
definite bearing upon the subject under
consideration. At the outset it may be
observed that the language of Jesus
has been most singularly illustrated in
the history of all these powers — "All
they that take the sword shall perish by
the sword." In the next place, the
more rapid their growth to greatness
and power was, the speedier was their
decline. When, as in the case of Alex-
ander, Tamarlane, and Napoleon, a
power swelled suddenly great and ple-
thoric under the guidance and direction
of one master-spirit, it sank as rapidly,
when that presiding genius was
removed. The mighty fabric reared by
the power of the Macedonian was parted
almost in a day ; and from being a unity,
great in that unity, it became split into
contending sections under his four great
generals, neither of whom could claim
the mantle of his fallen master. The
blood-built power of Timour the Tartar
or Tamarlane, became the greedy prey
of rival chiefs as soon as his ruthless
spirit ceased to animate the clay it had
so empowered and exalted ; and the ulti-
mate defeat of Napoleon was but the
signal for a reorganization of European
kingdoms, and a re-erection of many of
the national boundaries he had removed
in his power. On the other hand,
nations which grew in power and great-
ness gradually, and rose from eminence
to eminence by degrees, acquired a sta-
bility which enabled them longer to
retain their position and resist with
greater force the circumstances which
operated on them for their overthrow.
But of all the powers which aspired to
universal dominion, not one now remains
which can lay claim to such a preemi-
nent position. Well might the poet
exclaim —

" Assyria, Greece, Rome, Carthage, whare are they f»
All, all have passed away ! and ruined
edifices, desolated cities, crumbling mo-
numental remains, and a degraded popu-
lation are the mournful relics of a
greatness which once awed the world
and shook the very foundations of
human liberty and freedom ! man,
man, who pridest thyself on thy power
and greatness!— power as feeble and
fleeting as thine own earthly exist-
ence, and greatness as evanescent as
the morning dream! — look upon these
ruined memorials of the past, and learn
how impotent %y$Q6# nr tran "

UNIVERSAL EMPIBB.

637

sient and hollow are the pomp and
pride, the glitter and tinsel which
shroud man's vaunted greatness and
fancied supremacy !

It has been observed that the very
means by which these great powers
obtained their preeminence precluded
the possibility of their retaining it.
To obtain and retain universal domin-
ion, mankind must be imbued with a
knowledge of correct principle, be
instructed in law and order, and under-
stand the benefits to be derived from
obedience to them ; and they must be
governed in justice and equity, not
treated as slaves by a powerful con-
queror, who are compelled to render an
unwilling servitude because they are
weaker than the power which controls
them. Where such servitude is com-
pelled, there fear is ; and closely allied to
it, hate. Sooner or later this fear in-
spired by hate, or the nobler feeling
returning courage, would prompt them
to cast off the shackles of bondage, and
assert their right to be governed accord-
ing to their freewill and choice. Re-
befli ons thus engendered would weaken
the power, exhaust the resources, and
sap the foundations of the giant autho-
rity which coerced them into an unwilling
subjection. Hence, the conquests made
by force, and maintained by the power
of arms, would sooner or later, through a
reactionary and revolutionary principle,
prove the overthrow and destruction of
the government which extended its
dominions by this means. Still there is
nothing unreasonable, improbable, or
impossible in looking for a realization
of this great governmental power.
That man has been unable to reach
the summit of authority, is no reason
why it cannot be reached ; and if the
wealth and power of a people increase
as the nation which they represent
grows in power and true greatness, by
the cultivation of the arts of peace and
the development of agriculture, manufac-
tures, and commerce, the members of a
universal empire would occupy a great-
ness and power in a proportionate ratio
to the overwhelming greatness of such
an empire, if that empire was based
upon principles which would ensure its
permanency. Hence, if mankind would
cease their wars, and, becoming ac-
quainted with the principles of eternal
truth, regulate their actions thereby,

being governed by wisdom, justice, and
righteousness, — if they were united
together in one vast brotherhood, whose
talents, abilities, and powexb were
directed to increase the general good
and promote universal welfare, under
a government which could com-
mand their confidence, love, and esteem,
it would be impossible to calculate the
vast amount of happiness and blessings
of which they would be the recipents.
Such a condition might be deemed ex-
tremely Utopian, yet God has declared
by the moutns of his holy Prophets that
he would set up a kingdom in the last
days which should never be destroyed,
to which universal dominion should be
given; that Jesus himself would pre-
side over it in power, rule in righteous-
ness, and reprove with equity ; that
mankind should beat their swords into
ploughshares, and their spears into
pruninghooks ; and that peace, with all
her angelic train of blessings, would
visit and abide with the children of
men.

When we turn aside from contem-
plating the dark picture .•eyealed in the
past, and gaze in ecstatic vision upon the
opening glories of the lcture, it is no
wonder that a glow of heavenly delight
fills our souls and makes the present ills
seem light in comparison with the bles-
sings and greatness which that future
will reveal. When holy men of old
were saddened and cast down in heart
at beholding the wickedness and degrada-
tion of their fellow-beings — when they
were persecuted, stoned, and even mar-
tyred for the truth's sake, and their
fainting spirits almost succumbed, the
Lord mercifully lifted the mighty cur-
tain of the future, and permitted them
to gaze upon that kingdom of power
and majesty, in whose greatness and
glory they were to be participators.
The providences of God in leading and
guiding that infant kingdom have been
signally and manifestly displayed.
Preserving it amid opposition, the
fiercest and most bitter that ever a
young and growing power had to contend
with, making events in its history
which under ordinary circumstances
would have proved its overthrow, the
stepping-stones to its exaltation and
ultimate greatness, turning the appa-
rently most untoward causes into the
most beneficial results, guiding it

63S

through difficulties of the most trying
and intricate nature, its history is without
a parallel in the records of any people
or nation. That which approximates
nearest to it is the providence mani-
fested in the early history of Israel ; but
though the salient points are in many
instances somewhat similar, still the
difference between them is marked and
observable. Cradled in earthquakes,
reared amid hurricanes, inured to the
bitterness of the fiercest tempests, it
can stand — while God protects it —
invulnerable amid the wildest lashings
of evil's racing billows. Its claims to
universal dominion are firmly founded
and stable. While every other power
and nation has within it the seeds of
its own destruction — while disunion,
strife, contention, and mad war prey at
the vitals and sap the foundations of all
earthly governments, it alone possesses
unity, peace, and harmony — the elements
of true power and permanent greatness.
Founded on truth, its subjects will learn
true principle, that they may govern
themselves. Its conquests will be made

MINUTES OF A COXFKRBXCB.

by a power of whose force the world is
ignorant. Its government, ruling in
righteousness, will be sought for by the
ends of the earth, and honest-hearted
and peace-loving men will hail its advent
with joy as the dawning of a brighter
day on this strife -tossed planet, while
peace extending from its borders blesses
all who bask beneath its heavenly ra-
diance.

As a people, we have every causeto
rejoice, ana in the midst of that rejoic-
ing should ever seek to remember His
guiding hand who has led his people in
the path to ultimate greatness, that the
Israel of the last days may be preserved
from pride in her coming glory, as she
has been preserved from abasement in
her past difficulties. It is the Lord's
work. Re alone has the right and the
power to institute universal empire, for
under his government alone can man-
kind find true justice, perfect righteous-
ness, and permanent peace. His king-
dom will grow, and increase, and have
no end.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD IN NORRE UTTRUP, DENMARK, SEPT. 1, 1861.

Present — Amasa M. Lyman and
Charles 0. Rich, of the Presidency of
the European Mission ; John Van Cott,
President of the Scandinavian Mission ;
0. A. Madsen, President of Aalborg
and Vensyssel District; L. Larsen,
President of Aalborg Conference ; Elders
Jesse N. Smith, Hansen, and Weiby ; a
number of Travelling Elders, upwards
of 850 Saints, and with a few strangers.

At 10 a.m., after singing and prayer,
President Rich said — "I am exceed-
ingly glad to be in your midst this
morning. However desirable it would
be for me to be able to speak in your
language, or you to understand me,
one thing I am fully aware of— that you
have embraced the truth, and mingle
with us in the same spirit; and your
faith, anxiety, and fond hopes are
directed in the same channel as ours.
You have received the testimony of
Jesus by obeying the Gospel, which is
the greatest gift that human beings can
obtain upon the earth. It matters not
what your circumstances may be, the

Gospel will lead you to obtain wealth,
honour, and immortality. It is not
riches, glory, and fame that will ac-
complish it. It has nothing to d d there-
with. It is of a different nature and
organism in itself. You have got to
grow and increase continually m this
work. Our growth is like unto a child's
growth when born into the world. It
must learn how to walk, talk, &c, until
it .arrives at manhood and is like its
father. So with us : our course will be
onward till we are like our Father in
heaven. The Lord has called and sent
forth his. servants to teach the principles
of life and salvation, and we must con-
sider them as his delegates — as if it
were the Lord himself. They teach men
to cease to do wrong, and do the work
of righteousness, and advocate its prin-
ciples. As far as their teachings are
received, they produce happiness and
salvation, and orinss ua near to our
Father in heaven. He loves truth and
righteousness. It is his design that it
should reign predominant upon the

Digitized by

Google

MINUTES OF A CONFBBBNCE.

639

earth, and this dispensation will bring
it to pass. When nobody steals, there
is no thieving done ; when nobody lies,
there is no lying done; if no one
whoreth, there is no whoredom existing.
So with other crimes and evils that en-
tail misery and sorrow, and a multipli-
city of woes upon the human race.
When we have fully conquered and done
away with those evils, there will be
peace, happiness, and order, among the
children of men, and the Devil would
then be bound. We have got to
work for it. Sin produces sorrow ;
righteousness and truth produce hap-
piness and bliss. Sanctify yourselves
Defore the Lord. Be holy, pure, and
virtuous, and listen to those appointed
to lead you onward to salvation. I
have been in the Church almost since
its beginning. There has never been a
time that the servants of the Lord have
had no light to lead his people ; and if
they have not been listened to and
obeyed, the consequences have been
sorrow and darkness to the Saints. It
is natural for many to expect, when we
come along, to hear a great deal said
about eternity and the world to come.
It is very urgent for you to know what
is. calculated to benefit you at present
while you are aiming at the glorious
prize, mat you may be firm in the truth
and win it. All the glory and fulness
you can imagine will be your possession.
You need not envy your brother who
has* advanced in the scale of being
farther than you have : he is not in your
way by any means. In the kingdoms
of the world there are only a few
personages entitled to honour and
glory. Not so in this kingdom: it is
obtainable by all if they live for it.
You will have an opportunity to be
tried as those who nave gone before
ypu. Abraham was tried. When he
proved faithful in all things, all bless-
ings which he possibly could desire
were multiplied upon him."

Elder A. Christensen interpreted the
discourse by President Rich before the
assembly ; and, after a hymn was sung,

Elder L. Larsen made some remarks
in regard to voting to sustain the Priest-
hood; after which he moved the up-
holding of the authorities of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
in their various, grades and orders of
Priesthood throughout the world, which

met with a ready response from all
present.

President Van Cott then rose and
said (in Danish) — 11 1 am very much

g leased to meet with so many of the
aints on this occasion. I am ac-
quainted with many of you ; still, num-
bers have been baptised lately whom I
do not know. It is cheering to me to
see so many becoming obedient to the
Gospel and the message the Lord is
sending forth to all the earth, and being
numbered among the noble family God
will use for his own designs. I seo
before me a true, honest, and virtuous
people : in that they are distinct from
all the communities. Continue to keep
the commandments of God through his
servants who are sent forth to this
generation. Neither king, priest, nor
emperor, high or low, rich or poor, will
ever enter the celestial gates without
repentance and baptism by that
authority vested in them. The world
is about as corrupt as it can be ; there
is scarcely any true virtue left in our
great cities ; every species of abomina-
tion and crime is abundant. We have
inherited various traditions from our
forefathers that are not correct. We
must overcome and strive to be like our
Father in heaven. The world speaks all
manner of evil against us ; but what of
that P Did not they do so in the days
of Jesus P But did they tell the truth P
No. I do not think the world is a
particle better than it was then."

Elder Madsen said — "The children
of men are said to be taught religion and
God's commandments by their precep-
tors ; but are at the same time told
that it is impossible to live their religion
and keep those commandments. What
folly! Such nonsense has originated
from the * mother of harlots.' It leads
men to ignorance and death. * The Gos-
pel of Christ is of a nature that all men
can obey it and live by it, if they have
a mind to. Hence the condition is,
that those who obey shall be saved, and
those who do not shall be condemned.
Our fellow-men think this a curious re-
ligion ; but the honest in heart love it
when they are brought to understand
it, and they will follow it and be saved
in the kingdom of God. Nothing can
hinder the progress of this work, or
hinder us individually from keeping
God's holy commandments, or prevent

Digitized by VJiOOQlC

640 MINUTES OF A

us from being saved in his celestial
kingdom."

After singing a hvmn, the meeting
adjourned. Benediction by Elder J esse
N. Smith.

2 o'clock, p.m.

The meeting was opened by singing
and prayer ; after which,

President Amasa M. Lyman rose and
said — " Brethren and sisters, I am very
glad to meet with you under such
favourable circumstances. I wish to
gay something to instil in your minds
confidence in the work you are engaged
in, and remind you of your obligations
to God, that you may realize your true
position upon the earth. I do not feel
to rejoice and have confidence in God
for my own individual sake, but in your
behalf, that you may enjoy the same
blessings. Although we do not under-
stand your language, there is an indica-
tion in your faces, speaking to us louder
and plainer than language could ex-
press, that your feelings, affections,
anxieties, and hopes are directed in the
same channel as ours, and that you are
aiming at the very some point that we
are aiming at. You need to learn. Go
onward in the good work.* Think not,
because you may be poor, that you are
considered as nothing before the Lord ;
but look up to him as your Father, and
think you are of heaven's family, and
live for a noble and exalted purpose,
and mind not the scorn and contempt of
those who are called wise in the world'
and refined in society. God has chosen
the weak things of the world, and they ,
are to be made strong and powerful.
The Gospel has found you where you
are, even in the humblest cottage. It
will save and exalt you ; it will produce
happiness and salvation, even wealth,
honour, and immortality, and make you
kings before the Lord. There are none
but the honest and true-hearted who
can aspire to that position. The people
that sit here before me are the chosen
of mankind. All the glorious promises
of God are to be fulfilled on your heads.
You are the literal heirs of the kingdom,
and no power can prevent it or make it
otherwise. Therefore let all, both young
and old, men, women, and children, be
instructed, that they may take a course
to secure it. I enjoin it upon you who
are called to teach, to instil this into

CONFERENCE.

the minds of the Saints. Take pains to
teach them all that will be for their
good, that the poor and the meek may
be reminded of their grand destination,
and be firm in keeping the command-
ments of God, overcoming the weak-
nesses and evils that humanity is apt to
be entrapped by ; and your influence will
then be telt as the genial rays of the
sun in a black storm. As long as men
are on the earth, they will cleave more
or less to its elements, and are subject to
failings. We must cultivate a spirit of
peace and forbearance, even when our
neighbour abuses us. You say he will
continue to abuse us. Very Hkely he
will. The worse a man is, the greater
his misfortune. We must act towards
all men as our Father has acted towards
us, ever seeking to save mankind, and
forbear with them as much as possible.
By doing so, we follow the example of
the Saviour. We did not come here
because it was very urgent to preach to
you. You have men in your midst
qualified to teach you all that is neces-
sary. They are men of God : he loves
them. What you dp not learn here,
you will all learn when you get to Zion.
Never cease making your exertions in
etery way possible to go there. Your
destiny and future hopes are concen-
trated in her. It will be a great pleasure
to us to meet you there, and reflect back
when we visited you in Denmark, even
in the humblest cottage. The pro-
mises of the Lord will be fulfilled on this
people."

Elder A. Christensen then translated
President Lyman's discourse for the
congregation ; after which,

Elder Jesse N. Smith said (in Dan-
igh) — " Our testimony is that ' Mormon-
ism ' is true, and truth is ' Mormonism.*
It embraces every true principle. In it
is power unto salvation. It will ^ bless
and benefit mankind. Some individuals
have embraced more truth than others.
The more we know of it, the more we
love it, and seek to put our fellow-men
in possession of the same glorious prin-
ciples. The world is full of corruption
and crime. Sins and folly bring their
own punishment ; they bring darkness,
gloom, and sorrow. Righteousness
produces life, light, joy, and harmony.
We must give heed to the word of God
through his servants. Those who love
truth will embrace it, walk by its pre-

Digitized by

HI8T0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

641

cepts, and be saved in the kingdom of
God."

Elder, H. Hansen then said-— 1 * We
have enjoyed a pleasant .time with our
brethren who have come here. The
world is covered with darkness. Her
wise men do not know anything about
God. They seek something which they
will not be apt to find. The Lord has
opened our eyes, and we are favoured
with the comforts and blessings of the
Gospel of Jesus, which will show us
our positions and the object of our being
in this world. It is our privilege to
know the will of the Lord, and do it,
and be saved, as much so as in the days
of Noah or Lot. This work is bound
onwards until it has accomplished its
purposes."

^ Elder J. 0. Weiby then said— "Tho
time has been well spent to day. Let
us give heed to the counsels received
to-day, and we shall not err. It will

lead us onward to obtain salvation.
It will begin right where you begin to
walk in the light."

Elder Larson said*— 41 Men read of tho
servants of God in ancient days, and
deify them. We. have got living ser-
vants of God rijjht among us now, and
consider it a privilege and great bles-
sing. Let the Saints continue to faith-
fully fulfil their duties, and net look at
one another's weaknesses and failings."

Elder Christensen then made a few
remarks ; after which*

President Van Cott said a few word*
concerning the blessings we Are enjoying,
and blessed the Saints, in the name of
the Lord, on behalf of Presidents
Lyman and Rich.

, A song composed by Elder Borghim,
suitable for the occasion, was then sung,
and President Lyman dismissed the
meeting by prayer.

A. Christensen, Reporter.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(CortiUtuedfrwn poge 626.)

Thursday, 23. — Emma rather better.
Bead Hebrew with Niebaur, and coun-
selled with various friends.

At 10 a.m., the Municipal Court met,
N. K. Whitney presiding; but there
not being a quorum present, adjourned
for one week.

At one, p.m., had a talk with the
Sac and Fox Indians in my back
kitchen. They said — "When our
fathers first came here, this land was
inhabited by the Spanish ; when the
Spaniards were driven off, the French
oame, and then the English and Ame-
ricans ; and our fathers talked a great
deal with the Big Spirit." They com-
plained that they had been robbed of
their lands by the whites, and cruelly
treated.

1 told them I knew they had been
* wronged, but that we had bought this
land and paid our money for it. I
advised them not to sell any more land,
but to cultivate peace with the dif-
ferent tribes and with all men, as the
Great Spirit wanted them to be united
and to live in peace. " The Great Spirit
has enabled me to find a book (shewing
them the Book of Mormon,) which told
me about your fathers, and Great Spirit

told me, * Tou must send to all the tribes
that you can, and tell them to live in
peace;' and when any of our people
come to see you, I want you to treat;
them as we treat you."

At 3 p. m., the Indians commenced a-
war dance in front of my old house.
Our people commenced with music and
firing cannon. After the dance, which
lasted about two hours, the firing of
cannon closed the exercise, and with
our music marched back to tho Office.
Before they commenced dancing, the
Saints took up a collection to get tho
Indians food.

A. A. Lathrop came to my clerk, Dr.
Richards, and told him an officer was
on his way with an attachment for
him, and that the grand jury had found
a bill against me for adultery, on the
testimony of William Law: he had
come from Carthage in two hours and
thirty minutes to bring the news. Dr.
B. came to my house and stayed all
night.

Aaron Johnson came from Carthage,
and said that Foster had been swearing
that I swore to the complaint on which
Simpson was arrested. I instructed
Johnson and Rockwell to go to Carthage

Digitized by

Google

642

HI8T0BY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

in the morning, and have him indicted
for perjury, as I never did swear to the
complaint. The officer was after John
D. Parker also, and report says B.
Young, H. 0. Kimball, and W. Clayton.

Past nine p.m., I walked a little way
with Dr. Richards for exercise.

My brother Hyrum called in the
evening, and cautioned me against
speaking so freely about my enemies,
Ac., in such a manner as to make it
actionable. I told him six months
would not roll over his head before they
would swear twelve as palpable lies
about him as they had about me.

Presi lent B. Young left St. Louis at
noun in the steamboat Louis Philippe.

Friday, 24.— With my family all
day.

Aaron Johnson and 0. P. Rockwell
went to Carthage to get Robt. D. Foster
indicted ; but they returned again as
the grand jury had risen. Joseph H.
Jackson was at Carthage, and had
sworn falsely against me.

At 6 p.m., went to Dr. Bernhisel's
room, and had counsel with brothers
Richards and Phelps. I ordered a
meeting of the City Council for to-
morrow, and returned to my family after
being absent about one hour.

The Central Committee wrote a letter
to Hugh Clark, Esq.:—

" Nauvoo, Illinois, May 24th, 1844."

Sir, — Having received your address
through our mutual friend, Mr. Edward
Doughty, we forward with this per next mail
the Nauvoo Neighbour of the 22nd inst.,
through which vou will learn the doings of a
State Convention held in this place on the
17th ; and this communication has been
drawn forth, in a great degree, through our
sympathies for a people who are now being
mobbed in the city of brotherly love (Phila-
delphia), as we have l>een for many years
in Missouri • and for what P For our re-
ligion, although called by another name.

The Mormons and the Catholics are the
most obnoxious to the sectarian world of any
people, and are the only two who have not
persecuted each other and others in these
the United States, and the only two who
have suffered from the cruel hand of mobo-
cracy for their religion under the name of
foreigners ; and to stay this growing evil,
and establish ' Jeffersonian democracy, free
trade, and sailor's rights, and protection of
person and property,' we have nomi-
nated Gen. Joseph Smith for the next Presi-
dent of the nation — a man with whom we
are thoroughly acquainted, and have no

fear in pledging our lives, our fortunes, and
our sacred honours, that, if elected, he will
give and secure these inestimable blessings
to every individual and society of men, no
matter what their religious faith. Help us
to elect this man, and wo will help you to
secure those privileges which belong to
you, and break every yoke.

You will please to consider yourself a
member of the corresponding committee
with us, agreeably to the resolution of the
State Convention, and lay this subject be-
fore your people, giving us your views on
receipt hereof, and open such correspond-
ence as wisdom shall dictate.

General Smith's prospects are brighten-
ing every day. With sentiments of the
highest consideration, we are your obedient
servants,

Willard Richards,
John M. Bernhiskl,
W. W. Phelps,
Lccian R. Foster,
Central Committee of Correspondence for
the Election of Gen. Joseph Smith to
the Presidency.

Hugh Clark, Esq., Alderman,
Corner of Fourth and Masters Street,

Northern Liberties, Philadelphia.''
Rainy evening.

A Conference was held at Chicago,
Alfred Gordon, president, and James
Burgess, clerk. Eleven Elders were
present, and a very favourable impression
was made upon the minds of the
people.

Saturday, 25. — At home, keeping
out of the way of the expected writs
from Carthage. Towards evening,
Edward Hunter and William Marks, of
the grand jury returned from Carthage ;
also Marshal John P. Greene and
Almon W. Babbitt, who informed me
there were two indictments found against
me, one charging me with false swearing
on the testimony of Joseph EL Jackson
and Robert D. Foster, and one charging
me with polygamy, or something else,
on the testimony of William Law, that
I had told him so ! The particulars of
which I shall learn hereafter. There
was much false swearing before the
grand jury. Francis M. Higbee swore
so hard that I had received stolen pro-
perty, &c, that his testimony was
rejected. I heard that Joseph H.
Jackson had come into the city. I
therefore instructed the officers to arrest
him for threatening to take life, &c

I had a long talk with Edward Hunter,
my brother Hyrum, Dr. Richards,

Digitized by Google

EDITORIAL. 643

William Marks, Almon W. Babbitt,
Shadrach Roundy, Edward Bonney,
and others, and concluded not to
keep out of the way of the officers any
longer.

At 2 p.m., I was in Council in my
north room, and heard the letters from
Elder 0. Hyde read, and instructed Dr.
[Richards to write an answer, which he
did as fallows : —

"Nauvoo, May 26, 1844.

Orson Hyde, Esq.

Sir, — Yours of April 30th is received.
Hie Council convened this afternoon, and,
after investigation, directed an answer, which
must be brief to correspond with a press of
business.

All the items you refer to had previously
received the deliberation of the Council.

Messrs. Lyman Wight and Heber C.
Kimball will doubtless be in Washington
before you receive this, from whom you will
learn all things relative to Texas, &c
Our great success at present depends upon
eur faith in the doctrine of election; and
our faith must be made manifest by our
works and every honourable exertion made
to elect Gen. Smith.

Agricultural pursuits will take care of
themselves, regulating their own operations
and the rich also ; but the poor we must

gather and take care of, for they are to in-
herit the kingdom.

Nauvoo will be a 1 corner Stake of Zion '
for ever, we most assuredly expect. Here are
the house and the ordinances, extend where
else we may.

Press the bills through the two houses,
if possible. If Congress will not pass them,
let them do as they bave a mind with them.
If they will not pass our bills, but will give
us 'something,' they will give what they
plea'se, and it will be at our option to accept
or reject.

Sen who are afraid of 'hazarding their
influence' in the council or political arena
are good for nothing. Tis the fearless, un-
daunted, and persevering, who will gain the
conquest of the forum.

Sidney Rigdon, Esq., is about to resign
the Post Office at Nauvoo, in favour of Gen.
Joseph Smith, the founder of the city. He
has the oldest petitions now on file in the
General Post Office for that station, and hat
an undoubted claim over every other peti-
tioner, by being the founder and supporter of
the city, and by the voice of nineteen -twen-
tieths of the people, and every sacred con-
sideration; and it is the wish of the Council
that you engage the Illinois delegation to
use their influence to secure the office to
Gen. Smith without fail, and have them
ready to act on the arrival of Mr. Rigdon's
resignation, and before too, if expedient.

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAE.

Saturday, October I, 1861.

SECOND ADVENT OF THE MESSIAH.

The second coming of the Son of God is a subject of the deepest importance to
the children of men. Concerning this, as concerning every other subject
revealed in the ancient Scriptures, there is much contrariety of opinion enter-
tained by modern professors of Christianity. Some believe that his advent will
not be till the consummation of all things earthly, when he shall descend as a
terrible judge to arraign the entire human family at the bar of eternal justice,
while the earth shall be annihilated before his presence and majesty; and
that the period of peace, so often referred to by the Prophets and Apostles of old,
will not witness his actual presence, but only fed the happifying and holy influ-
ences of his Spirit and power. Others look for his advent in person at the open-
ing of the Millennium to reign upon the earth ; and the exact time of his coming
has been often predicted by individuals who waited anxiously for his appearance,
to be disappointed in their expectations and deceived in their calculations ;

Digitized by Google

644

EDITOBIAL.

while others, again, believe in his actual ooming to reign a thousand years, but
consider it preposterous for man to make any pretensions to a knowledge of when
he will appear. Other opinions and views are entertained among men, which it
is needless here to mention* The foregoing is enough to show that mankind are
divided in their opinions ; consequently there must be ignorance in proportion to
that division existing among them ; for some must be wrong where divided
opinions such as these are entertained. The result of such ignorance will neces-
sarily be an inability to understand how to prepare for his coming, and an endless
contention among jarring sectaries relative to that event, incompatible with the
perfection, harmony, and order requisite to meet and sustain the presence of so
much holiness, majesty, and heavenly power. Malachi queries, " But who may
abide the day of his coming P and who shall stand when he appeareth P for he is
like a refiner's fire.*' And if he were to descend in suddenness upon the inha-
bitants of the earth now, well might it be asked, "Who could abide his presence?"
The Jews, who with ungodly cry preferred to save the life of a public criminal
before the Saviour unjustly condemned, and who mocked him with bitter taunts
as they beheld him nailed to the cross, would have but little more to flee from
his presence for, than this generation, who openly and defiantly mock every
Divine injunction, and reject every commandment he has revealed. While well-
meaning and piously-disposed individuals are lamenting the rapid increase of
sin and evil, and mourning at the torrent of iniquity that is sweeping over the
earth, while zealous pietists are inaugurating and endeavouring to spread revi-
vals, while missions at home and abroad are being maintained for the spread of
so-called religion, and while public proclamations for the suppression of vice and
immorality and the inculcation of virtue and purity are being issued from high
places and read in public churches, where, among all the inhabitants of the
earth who profess Christianity and raise noble architectural structures for reli-
gious worship, is there a people prepared or preparing for his advent, or whom
he could visit and bless with his countenance P The lamentations of religious
professors at the decadence of religious vitality, the cries and loud prayers of a
people who would fain seek God after their own fashion and manner, and not in
Ins appointed way, and the increase of crime, iniquity, and abominations, give a
mournful answer from those who, professing to serve God, possess a form of god-
liness, but deny the power thereof.

The Son of God himself declared pointedly the signs which should herald his
approach, and, after repeating them, observed — " Now learn a parable of the fig
tree. When his branch is yet tender and putteth forth leaves, ye know that sum-
mer is nigh ; so likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is
near, even at your doors." The signs of which he spoke are patent to this gene-
ration. As clearly as the opening leaves of spring herald the approach of
summer, so clearly do the signs of the times indicate the approaching advent of
Messiah. That the evils of which he spoke have, in a greater Or lesser degree,
visited every generation since, it is true ; but such an accumulation of them no
generation since ever suffered. To recapitulate them would be but to repeat
matters of every-day occurrence. Wars, rumours of wars, pestilence, famine,
earthquakes, disasters by sea and land, and the upheaving of the mighty waters,
are the every-day topics of conversation, and form subject-matter for every broad-
sheet issued from the press. Yet mankind rush on in the dizzying whirl of life,
almost reckless of the future, endeavouring to stifle the fearful forebodings which
obtrude themselves into their souls, marrying and giving in marriage, eating and

EDITORIAL.

645

drinking, and seeking the gratification of their lasts and evil desires ; for, say they,
" the end is not yet." That such an event will ever happen does not seem to
enter into the calculations of mankind. "As matters have continued, so they will
remain," seems to be the motto upon which they act. The world has con-
tinued in its present condition, they say, by their actions, jarring, quarrelling,
struggling, striving, building up and pulling down for generations beyond our
knowledge ; and in such a condition it will remain, at least for generations to
come. This reasoning, if it can be called such, is erroneous and productive of
fearful consequences. While men read the Bible and talk of the wicked in a day
of judgment calling upon the rocks to fall on them, that they may be hid from
the presence of Deity, they look away in the far distant future for the realization
of this fearful time, not considering that the heavens will reveal the brightness
and glory of earth's coming King, surrounded by] his holy retinue, before this
generation shall have passed away ; for whose presence they are but little seeking
to prepare.

As the ancient Saints fell into error respecting [the coming of the Lord, so
some modern Saints, who have started out in the path of preparation, seem to
have suffered their minds to become darkened to the near approach of Messiah's
advent. From the manner in which his return to earth in glory was dwelt upon
by the ancient Apostles, many entertained a belief that he would appear in that
generation. Hence Paul was necessitated^) caution the Thessalonians in these
terms : — " Let no man deceive you by any means ; for that day shall not come,
unless there come a falling away first." On the opposite hand, when the Elders
of this last dispensation came proclaiming the kingdom of heaven at hand % and
announcing the approaching advent of Jesus, many believed upon their words
who have remained stedfast to the faith ; yet some of them seem to place the
latter event in an indefinite future, and appear to look upon it as something not
likely to occur for many years, if at all during their term of life. Once very
zealous with regard to this matter, they anticipated it would take place in a very
brief period of time, and that the Lord would, by direct and visible interposition,
throw mankind into a chaotic mass and destroy them, without considering the
preparation necessary on the part of the Saints, and the opportunities of mercy
which a just being would provide for mankind to repent and be blessed with the
power of the Gospel. But when they found it was a work of time, progression,
and preparation, while holding to the testimony of the truth, they seemed to fall
into precisely the opposite error that the ancients fell into, and placed it, as far as
they were concerned,, away in the future.

That the Lord will appear when his people are prepared for his presence, is a
gladdening truth ; that that day is rapidly hastening on, is fully evidenced by the
progress of the Saints and the development of Jehovah's purposes among the
nations : but because the people of the Saints are fast preparing for his appear-
ance is no evidence that evejry member of the Church who may have a standing
among the Saints is preparing. There is a means by which we can measure
our progress to meet that auspicious event. If the breach is daily widening
between ourselves and the world, as it is between the community of the Saints
and the world, then we may be assured that our progress is certain, however
slow. On the opposite hand, if our feelings and affections, our appetites and
desires, are in unison with the world around us, and freely fraternize with them, —
if our faith and our actions are cold and barren of good fruit, we should do well
to examine ourselves. Individuals in such a condition might possess a nominal

Digitized by

646

CO&BESPONDENCB.

position in the Church, "but would be lacking the life of the work 4 and, liker the
foolish virgins who slumbered while the bridegroom tarried, they would be
unprepared for his coming when it bursts upon them unexpectedly.

To the world of mankind the advent of Messiah will bring shame and sorrow*
Rejecting his Gospel and spurning his servants from their' midst, they place
themselves in wilful opposition to the only principle by which they could learn of
and prepare for his coming. To the Saints who live in the light of truth, stand
aloof from the vanities and sins of the world, and strive in humility and earnestness
to purify themselves before the Lord, gathering out from the destructions whose
assembling clouds hang darkly over the confines of Babylon, it will bring salva-
tion, glory, exaltation, and happiness ineffable.

CORRESPONDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.
Copenhagen, Sept. 7, 1861.

Dear Brother George, — I again take
my seat to address you. Since my last
to you from Aalborg of August 30th,
health and peace, through the blessing
of our kind Father, bave attended us in
all our travels and ministrations. Of
our journey from Copenhagen to Aal-
borg, I need only remark that no thrill-
ing incidents were connected with its
consummation. Brother Van Cott was
with us. We passed the night *ery
pleasantly in unbroken sleep, and at a
quarter past seven o'clock we arrived
at Aalborg, where we were met and
■welcomed by Elders C. Madsen and
L. P. Larsen, who conducted us to the
residence of brother Larsen, where we
met Elders Jesse N, Smith and H. C.
Hansen. During the day several of the
Saints called to see us, and gave us a
hearty welcome and a good Danish
shake of the hand,— which, by-the-bye,
is no sickly, indifferent affair; for, with a
warm heart and stalwart frame, the
soul's affections, of necessity, sought ex-
pression in the strong grasp of earnest,
nonest friendship, as it was denied the
privilege of more intelligible utterance
to us.

On the day following our arrival in
Aalborg, we were furnished with a
carriage and team for travelling in the
country. At four o'clock we crossed
the Lumfyord, or Gluebay, in a small
boat, while our carriage and team
passed over in a larger one. Joining
our carriage, we rolled away on the
road to Yearing, which is a very good

one. The country we passed was
generally flat, with slight undulations,
somewhat resembling, in this respect,
the prairies of the great West. Like
them, it is destitute of timber,, save here
and there some isolated small groups ojf
the native forest growth; in contrast
with the green foliage of which were
sometimes to be seen the white walls
of the residences of the better class of
farmers. This contrast affords a pleas-
ing variety to break the monotony that
in its absence would meet the eye of
the traveller. The highest parts of
many of the low ridges, joined by the
undulating character of the country,
were crowned with numerous tumular
mounds, resembling those so common
in parts of the continent of America,
and their excavation discloses similar
historic evidences of their origin and
uses. The principal places in the
country are connected by the tele-
graphic communication established
between them.

The character of the soil over which
we passed was poor (as compared
with the soil of the valleys of Utah),
sand predominating in its composition.
The cultivation bestowed upon it by
the hardy husbandman brings only
partially remunerative crops to com-
pensate his toil and meet his most
pressing requirements. After a ride
of some twenty-nine English miles, we
arrived in Tearing, where we were wel-
comed by the President of the Ven-
syssel Conference, Elder Weiby, with
whom we had our lodgings.

On Sunday, 25th, we travelled about
eleven miles to the residence of Mr

Digitized by

COBBESPONDBNCB.

647

John Petersen, who had kindly extended
the use of his large barn to the Saints
for the holding of their Conference. At
ten o'clock some 500 of the Saints were
assembled. The entire number of
Saints in the Conference was - 600.
The meeting was addressed by brother
Rich, myself, brother Van Cott, and
several of the members of the Local and
Travelling Ministry. A good spirit per-
vaded the assembly, which makes the
prospects bright for future increase to
the Church in this district of country.
Conference over, we returned to Tear-
ing. Early on the morning of Monday,
the 26th, we took a brief stroll to in-
hale the morning air, and from an ele-
vated point near the town we had a
pleasant view of the surrounding
country, which seemed one extended
plain, slightly diversified, with gentle
undulations, stretching itself around us
until it met the bright blue of the dis-
tant horizon. The blue sea in the north-
west was in sight from our pleasant
perch on the heights of Tearing. We
returned from our stroll refreshed, and
in a condition to do ample justice to the
breakfast provided by our kind host.
This done, wo were moving on our re-
turn to Aalborg, during which we
spent two nights with some farmers in
the country, which incident was not
without its interest to us, as it afforded
us a chance of seeing something of rural
life in the northern portion of the king-
dom of the Danes.

The habitations of these sons of toil
are very rude, and not generally en-
cumbered with any large amount of
furniture, or even floors ; yet in these
hovels, (the low ceilings of which keep
one in constant remembrance that it is
not good to hold the haad too high,) with
all their indications of squalor and
poverty, the spirit of genial friendship
shed its cheering light ; and, although
the beds were minus, a liberal supply of
fresh clean straw, placed on the earthy
floor of the best apartment, afforded the
traveller an apportunity to think of the
rude and humble entertainment ex-
tended to the Sinner's Friend, and in
sleep to forget the rude couch on which
he finds repose. Thatch is the general
covering of the tenements of the tillers
of the soil : some of the comparatively
wealthy have tile. Among the hardy
and poor class, the Gospel at present

finds its votaries — a hardy and sound
material or element for the development
and increase of that world-wide na-
tionality, in the broad shadow of which
the saved of the world shall repose in
the full enjoyment of that liberty which
the Gospel promises to the honest dis-
ciple of the truth.

We returned to Aalborg, where we
remained until Sunday the 1st of Sept.,
when we attended a meeting of the
Saints in Aalborg Conference, which
numbers in full 462, and had a very
pleasant time, the place of meeting
being some four miles away from . Aal-
borg, in the country. We remained
with our friends in Aalborg until five
o'clock on the 3rd, when I and brothers
Rich, Van Cott, J. N. Smith, and H.
C. Hansen bade our kind friends on
the banks of the Lumfyord farewell,
and took passage on board the steamer
Dania for Copenhagen, where we ar-
rived safely and in good health on the
morning of the 4th, and remained here
until the evening of the 7th, when I,
with brothers Rich and Van Cott,
passed over the Sound to Sweden,
landing at Malmo, where we had a most
interesting Conference with the Saints,
who number 610 in the Conference.

On the 9th wo returned to Copen-
hagen, finding all well, which is our
condition at this moment Sept. 11th.
With kind regards to yourself, family,
and associates in the Office, in which I
am joined by brothers Rich, Van Cott,
and Smith, I subscribe myself your
brother in the Gospel,

Am asa M. Lyman.

Aalborg, Sept. 12, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I send you the
minutes of our Conference of the 1st inst.
It was a pleasant time indeed. The
precious seeds of life were disseminated
freely by Presidents Lyman and Rich
and others^ They left this city with the
steamship Dania, on the 3rd. inst., for
Copenhagen, accompanied by President
Van Cott and Elders Jesse N. Smith
and Hansen ; from whence thev were to
go to Sweden, and hold a Conference in
the capital. The work in this part of
the country is progressing as usual.
The work of baptism and preparations

Digitized by

643

8UMKABY.

for the " grand exodus " will soon be
prosecuted with vigour and zeal, as we
have every good prospect before us.
Here we find a great many who are
anxious to know the truth, as they
plainly discover that the mass of the
people do not tread in the path of life and
safety, and that the Christian world is
bereft of the ordinances and power to
save, and is like a ship on the wide ocean,
dismasted and tossed by the ever-rest-
less billows in the roaring storms and
hurricanes, and disabled to go to a safe
port.

I am truly thankful to the Lord that
he is working with us, and raising men
with charity, fortitude, and skill, to be
engaged in the field everywhere. I
never saw a time when the spirit of
testimony rested on the brethren so

powerfully as it does at this present
time. The Branches are in a very
healthy condition, increasing rapidly in
those principles that are calculated to
save, exalt, and happify the human
race. Nothing is neglected that can
profitably be done at present for the
coming 44 exodus."

I, with brother Larsen, (the President
of this Conference,) have held a District
meeting in this western section. We
are 'surprised to learn that nearly
all in the Branches of this District
are going home next spring. Many
cannot go further than Florence, and
will depend then on the Church trains for
going further.

I remain yours in Christ Jesus,

A. Cheistknskjt.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

JIungary. — That fruitful source of discord
between the people and the authorities in
Hungary — smuggled tobacco — has led to a
disturbance in Pesth, resulting in the use
of their arms by the military and the
wounding of several persons.

Spain. — Spain still refuses to acknowledge
anv sovereign of Naples but Francis 1 1.

Italy.— —Some turbulent demonstrations
took place in Bologna on the 24th ult.,
caused by the high price of provisions.
Several of the* ringleaders were arrested.
The authorities have taken precautionary
measures. The streets are traversed by
strong patrols, and tranquility is now re-
established. The French troops at Veroli
have surprised a band of brigands, who were
about to convey arms and money to Chia-
vone. They arrested the chief of the band,
who was wounded. A royal Italian decree
has been received by the Board of Trade,
declaring the commerce of grain between
Italy and foreign countries free in the whole
kingdom, as regards exportation and im-
portation. A letter from Rome states that
the holy city has been swarming with re-
actionists of late, lounging about in troops
of thirty or forty at a time, easily recog-
nizable by their dress and dialect, and
exciting the wrath of the Romans, the
lower orders of whom abuse and pelt
them whenever they can get an oppor-
tunity. Partial encounters are still
frequent on the frontier mountains, espe-
cially near Casamare between the
remnants of Chiavone*s band and the Italian

troops ; but the guerilla movement seems to
be gradually dying away.

MoNTBNzeao. — A letter from Ragus*
says th6 Turkish population are murmuring
at the delay in the movements of Omar
Pasha : not so his army, who are panic-
struck, and desirous of avoiding a coDision
with the insurgents. The Sirdar is endea-
vouring to bring, his army into better con-
dition by strict discipline. The Turkish
General who commands at Trebigne sent
couriers on the 12th to all parts of the
Herzegovina to call the Turkish population
to arms, with directions to them to assemble
at Debell-Brieyh, and to wait further orders
there. Omar Pasha, who has little con-
fidence in the Turks, and none whatever in
the slave Greeks, is alwaYs'accompanied by
an escort of 400 Catholics, natives of the
Herzegovina, who are said to be completely
devoted to him.

Poland. — A proclamation has been ad-
dressed to the representatives of ancient
Poland, convoking them to assemble on the
2nd of October at Horodlo, where, 400
years ago, was held the first assembly of
Poles, Lithunians, and Ruthenians. The
object is by a grand and imposing solem-
nity to celebrate the anniversary of the day
when, in presence of Sigsmund Augustus
II. the Diet of Lublin ratified the definite
union of Poland and Iithunia. On the
proposition of the Governor of Poland the
Administrative Council of Warsaw has
resolved to declare the city in a state of
siege should the disturbances be renewed.

VARIETIES.

Sumatra.— Previous to the disaster of
March 9, there wereon the island 120 houses
and a population of 1,045 ; on this unlucky
day 96 houses were destroyed, and 675 of
the inhabitants, besides 103 temporary resi-
dents, lost their lives. Of the campongs
nothing more is to be distinguished than the
stones here and there, on which the Batu
islander places the posts of his house, or
which serve as seats m the gatherings in the
campongs, and the wells which are found
near each campong. On some places were
great piles of trunks of trees, beams, and
planks of houses, clothes, and furniture, and
amongst them the bodies of the dead, which
had not yet been removed, some in a state
of decomposition, others completely stripped
of the flesh by the vultures, dogs, and swine,
of which last many were also drowned, but
a number still wandered in the junrie
These skeletons and bodies presented a
dismal sight, and rendered the atmosphere
intolerable. The sea appears to have been
most violent between the campongs Simo,
Babanirege, and Lakao, on the west side of
the island, where the greatest number of
persons perished. According to the account
of a survivor of the campong Babanirege,
an earthquake was felt at the fall of evening
shortly before the inundation. All the in-
habitants then assembled, by order of the
panghulu, on the open space in the middle
of the campong ; but a moment afterwards
they tried to make their escape from thencei
as they dreaded the fall of the houses, which
were already tottering. They were driven
back, however, by a rush of water which
approached from the back of the campong.

Running back from this, they were over*
whelmed by another terrific wave, which
out of 282 persons, swept off 206. Two
waves met each other at this point, and
wrought a fearful destruction. Large
masses of rock were carried from the sea
for 100 or 200 paces inland.

America.— The accounts from Missouri
show that the Confederates are destroying
the railway which crosses the northern part
of that State from Hannibal on the Missis-
sippi to St. Joseph on the Missouri. A little
while ago, General Fremont issued a pro-
clamation in which he threatened to shoot
any one who might be found in arms
against the Federal Government in that
district. This destruction of the railway by
which he moves his troops is the answer to
his proclamation. Advices from Western
Virginia state that the Confederate troops
under Leo, on the morning of the 12tn,
commenced an advance upon both positions
occupied by the National troops at Elk
Water and Cheat Mountain Summit. They
succeeded in surrounding the Summit, but
were subsequently dispersed by reinforce-
ments sent from Clarksburgh. Their ad-
vance on Elk Water was also stopped by
shells from Loomis' Battery. During a
slight skirmish on the 13th, near Elk Water,
two Confederate officers — one of them
Colonel John A. Washington, late of Mount
Vernon— were killed. Government had
received reliable information that the
strength of the Confederates at Fairfax
Court-house and vicinity was 110,000, the
estimate being based upon the number of
rations issued.

VARIETIES.

Early Rising. — The difference between rising every morning at six and at eight, in
the course of forty years, amounts to 29,200 hours, or three years, one hundred and twenty-
one days, and sixteen hours, which are equal to eight hours a day for exactly ten years
of life (a weighty consideration) were added, wherein we may command eight hours every
day for the cultivation of our minds and the despatch of business.

A Cat Story. — " An old woman, who died a few years ago in Ireland, had a nephew a
lawyer, to whom she left by will all she possessed. She happened to tiave a favourite cat,
who never left her, and even remained by the corpse after her death. After the will was
read in the adjoining room, on opening the door tne cat sprang *t the lawyer, seized him
by the throat, and was with difficulty prevented from strangling him. This man died
about eighteen months after this scene, and on his death-bed confessed thut he had mur-
dered his aunt to get possession of her money/'— Miss Knight's Autobiography.

Habits of Spiders. — The following curious fact is given on the authority of Mr
Spencer : — " Having placed a large full-grown spider on a cane planted upright in the
midst of a stream of water, he saw it. descend the cane several times, and remount when
it had arrived at the surface of the water. Suddenly he lost sight of it, but in a few
minutes afterwards, to his great astonishment, perceived it quietly pursuing its way on
the other side of the stream. The snider having spun two threads along the cane, had eut
one of them, which, carried by the wind, had become attached to some object on the bank,
and so served the spider as a bridge across the water. It is supposed that spiders, when
adult, always use similar means to cross water."

650

POETRY.

Why are woollens and furs used in cold weather 9 Because they are very had conductors
of heat, and therefore prevent the warmth of the body from being drawn off by the
cold air.

Mental Power of a Dog. — A well-known Uack-and-tan terrier, named Prince,
residing at Margate, was accustomed to make his own purchases of biscuit as often as he
could obtain the gift of a halfpenny for that purpose. On several occasions the baker
whom he honoured with his custom thought to put hira off by giving him a burnt biscuit in
exchange for his halfpenny. The dog was very much aggrieved at this inequitable treat-
ment, but at the time could find no opportunity of showing his resentment. However,
when he next received an eleemosynary halfpenny; he wended his way to the baker's, u
usual, with the coin between his teeth, and waited to be served As soon as the baker
proffered him the biscuit, Prince drew up his lips so as to exhibit the halfpenny, anil thea
walked coolly out of the shop, transferring his custom to another member of the same
trade who lived on the opposite side of the street.

Charity of the Rat. — A Sussex clergyman testifies that, walking out in some meadows
one evening, he observed a great number of rats migrating from one place to another.
He stood perfectly still, and the whole assemblage passed close to him. His astonishment,
however, was great, when he saw amongst the number an old blind rat, which held a
piece of stick at one end in its mouth, while another had hold of the other end of it, and
thus conducting its blind companion. A kindred circumstance was witnessed in 1757 by
Mr. Purdew, a surgeon's mate on board the Lancaster. Lying awake one evening in ms
berth, he saw a rat enter, look cautiously round, and retire. He soon returned, leading a
second rat by the ear, and which appeared to be blind. A third rat joined them shortly
afterwards, and assisted the original conductor in picking up fragments of biscuit and
placing them before their infirm parent, as the blind old patriarch was supposed to be.

POETRY.

TRUTH'S SUNSHINE.
(Tujte— " The Young Jteerafc.")

See from Zion's mountain beaming

The sun of truth di vine ;
Its heavenly light is streaming
To every land and clime.
Ye fettered millions round,
Behold its cheering rays, >
And let your joys abound
In songs of grateful praise.
God's chosen time has come,
To gather Israel home,
In these tho latter days.

See error's mists retiring
* Into the shades of night,
And priestcraft's breath expiring
Before its burning light.
Tradition's icy chains
Asunder burst shall be ;
For truth asserts its claims,
And sets the captives free.
Pron-1 kings whom God disowns
Shall fall from off their thrones,
And fade from memory.

Liverpool.

Hear Zion's watchmen calling,

" It is the eleventh hour !"
Babel's battlements are felling
Before their mighty power.
God has spoken from above,
Making known the Gospel plan,
In tones of deepest love,
To the sons of fallen man.
Its sound shall go from pole to pole,
To cheer and bless each honest seal,
In life's allotted span.
See the pure in heart repairing

To Zion's favoured land ;
AH dangers bravely daring,
They go at God's command,
To bask in truth's bright sunshine,
With the holy and the pure,
And upward soar to heights divine,
Strong in poWr to still endure.
' While devastation's angry sotmrfS
Shall 'on the world in fury surge,
They'll rest in peace secure.

A Boss.

CONTENTS.

Minutes of a Conference 688 Summary of News and Passing Events. — ««

History of Joseph Smith „ ;. 641 Varieties.....

Editorial.— Second Advent of the Messiah. 6*8 Poetiy^"Tr"u^^Yunsh^'" '.'-"'.ZZ.-~»V*

Conespoudrace.— Scandinavian Mission— -Letters

_ LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 41, ISLINGTON.
^ LONDON:

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 80. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STSMSX

ISLINGTON ; AND ALL BOOKSELIiRS,

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' . "

MILLENNIAL STAE

M A noise ihall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lor&hath a controversy with the nations : he wHt
plead with all flesh ; he wiligive them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord\"—JM*mMULB.

Ho. 41, Vol. XXIII.

Saftirflay, October 12, 1861.

Price One Penny.

ORIGIN OP MAN.

The origin of the human race is. a
subjeot that has of late been warmly
discussed by the leading ethnologists
and zoologists of the day. "With what
Results remains to be seen.

Ethnology, or the science of races, is
in itself a useful and interesting branch
of study, as by it we learn to trace with
greater certitude the physical relation-
ship which the various peoples of the
earth bear to each other.

Various opinions are maintained as
to how many distinct races of human-
kind there are in the world — some
upholding the doctrine of unity of origin
with orthodox zeal, some contending
with equal tenacity for three distinct
primordial races, others for five, "and
others again for as many as eleven.

At the meetings of the British Asso-
ciation for the Advancement of Science,
held last year at Oxford, and this year
at Manchester, spirited discussions
took place upon the Antiquity of the
Human Race and the Origin of Species,
fiomo of the prominent zoologists avow-
. jh<j considerable modifications of their
/opinions upon the latter topic — the new
P doctrine being that thi different species
T of life-forms, instead of being maepfen-
dently created, have gradually descended
as modifications and varieties from
each other.

' In order to give our readers a better
general idea of the peculiar views now

gaining ground in the foremost ranks
of naturalists, wo will cite a few
instances for illustration.

An elaborate work, which is some-
what agitating the scientific circles of
France and England, has lately been
published by M. Pouchet, a French
naturalist, purporting to establish the
principle of 1 'spontaneous generation."
Crosse ha'd professed to produco insects
by electricity ; Fray, to derelop slugs
by fermentation; andNeedham, to form
animalcule by infusorial means : but
as objections* had been raised by their
opponents against their hypotheses and
experiments on the supposition of tho
presence of ova or seed-germs, rf.Pouchet
proposes to produce insects in infusions
under circumstances which would pre-
clude the possibility of the presence of any
organic germ, such as employing artificial
water, artificial air, or even pure oxygen,
passing the air through concentrated
sulphuric acid, and subjecting the
infusion (of hay) to a high boiling tem-
perature/ By this means he proposes
to destroy any germ' that might possibly
be supposed to exist therein ; and under
these extreme circumstances he professes
to be able by a simple natural process
to generate organic life from; inorganio)
matter. /

Then,, again, there is the remarkable
anonymous volume, entitled " Vestiges
of Creation," which' has startled all

Digitized by Google

662

ORIGIN OF MAN.

phers from their
propriety, and has lately run through
nearly a score of editions in double
quick time. In this book the " progres-
sive development'* theory is proclaimed
and advocated in all its bearings, — the
hypothesis being that from the original
simple forms of life the higher and
more complex have been eliminated by
degrees, one above another, without any
special creative fiat, until at length the
ape was produced, from which the
lowest type of man was ultimately
developed", in a wild or savage state;
that thus all the changes have been
brought about which characterize both
vegetable and animal life, the elements
of which all are composed being the
same, the difference consisting merely in
the modes of their arrangement and
transition, — galvanic action being the
chief agent in effecting the results.

Last, but not least, comes the Dar-
winian theory of 44 natural selection."
In his recent work upon the 11 Origin of
Species," Darwin proceeds upon the hy-
pothesis that there have been no special
creations of separate species of either
vegetable or animal forms of life, but
that external conditions, such as varia-
tions of climate and food, domestica-
tion or cultivation, natural habit,
volition, and co-adaptation, <fcc, will
account for all the changes and varieties
observable in the different classes of
vegetables and animals existing on the
globe, whether on the land, in the sea,
or in the air. Also that in the struggle
for life, which, under peculiar circum-
stances, ensues among different vegetable
and animal forms, any variety which
may have the superiority as regards
existing circumstances, will predomi-
nate, and, by diverging in a new
direction, become modified and changed
by surrounding natural causes. Thus
from unity is said to be evolved every
kind of diversity, the upward progress of
the animal race ending in the human.
^ Since the descriptions recently pub-
lished by Du ChaiUu and others of the
size, shape, and peculiar characteristics
of the gorilla, discovered in Equatorial
Africa, opinions have* obtained among
tho Darwin Bchool of naturalists that
that remarkable species of animal, so
resembling man, must be either an ape
developing into manhood, K>r a man
degenerating into an ape. The former

hypothesis, however, appears to gain the
neater amount of credence among
that class of theorists.

It is not our intention to discuss here
the merits or demerits, in particular, of
the foregoing theories as to the origin of
the various species of vegetable and
animal forms of life, nor to dwell upon
the various points of similarity or dis-
similarity between man and the higher
grades of animals, such as the gorilla
and the mbouve\ Suffice it here to say
that, notwithstanding the evident general
resemblance as to physical conformation,
there are many essentially-distinctive
differences of a special character in the
various particulars which make up thai
general structure; and one thing is
certain — namely, that since " the begin-
ning" of the existence (however far
back the palaeontologist may trace it)
of either man or monkey upon the earth,
the annals of time give us no record,
either ancient or modern, of the one
ever merging into the other. Manhood
and monkeyhood are as distinct now as
ever they were ; and surely, if there
were any natural tendency or possibility
of either the development or degeneracy
of the one into the other, some indubi-
table instance of the fact would have
shown itself ere this.

But the chief, wide distinction that
exists between man and all the different
classes of animals, from the lowest to
the highest, lies in his mental and moral
capacities. In his spiritual endowments
man stands pre-eminent and alone.
The animals of each and every order
have their peculiar instincts and facul-
ties, but in these respects man rises
immeasurably far above them ; for
while they are stationary, man pro-

fr esses. Age after age finds them as)
ygone centuries left them, unaltered*
unimproved ; but as one generation,
succeeds another, man advances in
mental power, in moral capacity, and
intellectual greatness There is no
boundary line even to this his marked
superiority over the brute creation*,
His capacity for moral growth and
intellectual power increases and
strengthens as it is exercised, and knows
no limit. But moral advancement, pro-
gressive knowledge, increasing wisdom,
and cumulative mental power, are terms
altogether inapplicable and strangely
out of place, if applied to animals* Xney

Digitized by CjOOg IC

ORIGIN OF HAN.

653

are practicable only of man. This
argument alone is of itself sufficient to
meet the case of the gorilla's supposed
approximation to manhood.

But what saith He whose wisdom is ,
far abqve man's, even as the heavens
are exalted above the earth ? While
men are weaving theories of their own,
and in their halls of learning are dis-
puting with each other on the origin of
man, the Saints of God ore guided, like
those of old, in their councils and their
judgments, by the light of revelation —
the dictates of Heaven — the voice of God.
While in the scientific land of Egypt, so
to speak, the direst confusion reigns,
and darkness on all vital subjects fills
the land, (a "darkness" so • 'thick" that it
may be "felt" by the humblest searcher
after truth,) the Israel of God have
•'light in their dwellings," even the
light of heaven's sun — the light of
Divine revelation.

The " Wise Man " has said, in refer-
ence to the period of death, that " Then
shall the dust return to the earth as it
was, and the spirit shall return unto God
who gave it, (Eccles. xii. 7,) thus
showing that while the body is of the
earth, earthy, the spirit is of celestial
origin, and will ultimately " return" or
be received back again into the Divine

Sresence of Him who is, as the Apostle
eolares, 14 the Father of spirits."
Many other texts of Scripture might
be cited which plainly and unmistakably
declare man's origin to be Divine.

Having a Divine parentage, and being
of celestial origin, as to his spiritual
nature, his instincts and high physical
characteristics must from the first have
placed him at the head of the entire
animal creation, holding supreme
dominion over every living thing."
In the {Tew Translation of the Bible,
by the Prophet Joseph Smith, we find
the following sentence in the 1st chapter
of Genesis, in reference to the formation
of the vegetables and animals of the
earth, and lastly man ; —

"Nevertheless, all things were before
eremted and made according to my word,"
Thus showing that although man's body
or tabernacle is formed from the dust of
the ground, or, in other words, is of
earthly origin, and that the latter
has to bo animated with the breath of
physical fife, in order to render it a
suitable abode far the former ; thus

showing that his first estate was not in
the garden of Eden, as is commonly
supposed, but in a pre-existing spiritual
world or sphere.

In the Book of Abraham, also, trans-
lated from the Egyptian papyrus by
Joseph Smith, the following passage
occurs : —

" Now the Lord had shown unto me, Abra-
ham, the intelligences that were organized
before the world was ; and among all these
there were many of the noble and the great
ones ; and God saw these soul* that they were
good, and he stood in the mitfgt of tliera, and
he said, These I will make my rulers ; for ho
stood among those that were spirits, and he
saw that they were good. And he said unto
me, Abraham, thou art one of them ; thou
wast chosen before thou wast born. And
there stood one among them that was like
unto God, and he said unto those who were
with him, We will go down, for there is space
there, and we will take of these materials, and
we will make an earth whereon these may
dwell ; and we will prove them herewith, to
see if they will do all things whatsoever the
Lord their God shall command them ; and
they who keep their first estate shall be added
upon ; and they who keep not their first
estate shall not have glory in the same
kingdom with those who keep their first
estate ; and they who keep their second
estate shall have glory added upon their heads
for ever and ever. 1

We learn from this, then, among
other things, that man, as a spirit, or
organized intelligence, existed in the
spirit-world for ages long anterior to
his incarnation in this lower sphere;
that this temporary change was designed
as a means of practically testing the
power and integrity of the spirit thus
removed to a new position and sur-
rounded by varying circumstances of a
lower order ; and that so far as he
availed himself of the opportunities
afforded him of proving his integrity by
grappling with surrounding evils and
overcoming them, and thereby rising
superior to their influence and power, he
would thus gain an experience that
would be invaluable, and ultimately win
his way to far higher and still more and
more exalted positions in the celestial
state than he could otherwise have pos-
sibly reached.

We will now select a few passages
from the discourses of President Young
upon the subject, which, clear and
explicit in themselves, stand out in bold
relief from the theories of men unin-
spired by- the spirit of revelation. He
Bays—

654.

NECESSITY FOB BBVBLATION.

" Our Father in heaven begat all the spirits
that ever were or ever will be upon this earth,
and they were born spirits in the eternal
world. Then the Lord by his power and
wisdom organized the mortal tabernacle of
man. We were made first spiritual, and
afterwards temporal. Now hear it, O inha-
bitants of the earth, Jew and Gentile, Saint
and sinner ! When our father Adam came
into the garden of Eden, he came into it with
a celestial body, and brought Eve, one of his

wives, with him They came

here, organized the raw material, and arranged
in their order the herbs of the field, the trees,
the apple, the peach, the plum, the pear, and
every other fruit that is desirable and good
for man : the seed was brought from another
sphere, and planted in this earth. The thistle,
tho thorn, the briar, and the obnoxious weed
did not appear until after the earth was
curbed. When Adam and Eve had eaten of
th* forbidden fruit, their bodies became
mortal from its effects, and therefore their
offspring wore mortal. ....
And who is the Father P He is the first of
tho human family ; and when he took a taber-
nacle, it was begotten by his Father in
hem-en, after the same manner as the taber-
nnoles of Cain, Abel, and the rest of the sons
a^j daughters of Adam and Eve. From the
frixits ot the earth the first earthly tabernacles
were originated by the Father, and so on in
succession."

"After men have got their exaltations and
thoir crowns — have become Gods, even the
sons of God — are made Kings of kings and
.Lords of lords, thay have the power then of
propagating their species in spirit, and that
is the first of their operations with regard to
organizing a world. Power is then given to
them to organize tho elements, and then
commence the organization of tabernacles.
How can they do it P Have they to go to
that earth? Yes, an Adam will have to go
there, and he cannot do without Eve : he must
have Eve to commence the work of gene-
ration, and they will go into the garden and
continue- to eat and drink of the fruits of
the corporeal world, until this grosser
matter is diffused sufficiently through their
celestial bodies to enable them, according to
the established laws, to produce mortal
tabernacles for their spiritual children."

"Now understand, all spirits came from
God, and they came pure from his presence,
and were put into earthly tabernactas which
were organized for that express purpose, and
so the spirit ' and the body becamo a living
soul."

President Young, in the foregoing
passages, while substantiating the fact
of the union of man's pre-existing spirit
with a bodily product of the " dust of
the ground, " enters more particularly
into the modus operandi of that union.
He unmistakably declares man's origin
to be altogether of a celestial character —
that not only is his spirit of heavenly
descent, but his bodily organization
too, — that the latter is not taken from
the lower animals, but from the origi-
nally celestial tody of the great Father
of humanity.

Taking the doctrine of man's origin
as seen from this higher point of view,
and comparing it with the low assump-
tive theories of uninspired men, such as
those wc have alluded to, how great the
contrast appears ! " Look on this
picture" — Man, the offspring of an ape !
"And on this " — Man, the image of God.
his Father! How wide the contrast t
and how different the feelings produced
in the breast! In the one case, we
instinctively shrink with dread at the
bare insinuation; while in the other,
the heart beats with higher and warmer
and stronger emotions of love, of
adoration, and praise; the soul is
cheered and invigorated in its daily
struggles to emancipate itself from the
thraldom of surrounding evils and
darkness pertaining to this lower snhere
of existence, and is animated with a
purer and nobler zeal in its onward and
upward journey to that Divine Presence
whence it originally came.

NECESSITY FOR REVELATION.

BT KLDEB JOHN 0. GRAHAM.

Although mankind have degenerated
from thef elevated condition they once
occupied, and adopted systems that are
not conducive to theii* ' spiritual welfare
and happiness, the Almighty has not
entirely forsaken us f and left us to
be-completely engulphedia the vortex of
iniquity and consequent ruin.— On every
hand we oehold numerous evidences of

his mercy and fatherly care. Amidst
what are called nature's glorious en-
dowments and blessings, an Almighty
Providence is working the welfare of the
human race, and is continually bestow-
ing, as from an unknown source, comfort
and happiness upon his children here.
The source from which tbese evidences
are derived is apparent ; yet even from

XBCBSSITT FOB BBTBLATIOIC.

055

the possessors of these blessings can we
frequently hear doubts of the existence
of a Supreme Being ; and their only ac-
knowledgements of such benefits are
that they have all been derived from
nature or chance. Notwithstanding the
palpable assurances continually mani-
fested in their lives, conviction has
made no impression on their unbelieving
minds. Scepticism prevails among the
majority of mankind to such an extent
that, however strong may be the evi-
dences which are brought forward to
convince man that God reigns, doubt
and uncertainty still remain. There is
however, notwithstanding declarations
to the contrary, an inherent conscious-
ness within man that there is a myste-
rious cause controlling all human affairs.
The existence of this scepticism shows
a necessity for direct communication
"between God and man, in order that a
settled and universal conviction may
prevail of the existence of a Creator
and governing Power. Yet men who
profess to believe in such an existence,
and offer up their adorations to that
Being, declare all intercourse between
God and man as non-essential. Their
own standard of belief, however, upon
which are based their hopes and pros-
pects of salvation, condemns such a
theory. That standard, the Bible, in
numerous instances, we find, supports
the fact of there being at one time a
channel of communication between
the heavens and the earth. The fact
that the Saviour, whom the Christian
world theoretically acknowledge as
Lord and Master, held frequent com-
munion with his Father, clearly and
plainly shows that if he could not do
without such communication, we of
course cannot remain isolated from him
and still maintain our devotion to his
cause. "My God, my God, why
Last thou forsaken me P " was an ex-
clamation from the Saviour while suffer-
ing for the welfare of mankind. This
was the language of one whom the
Christian world declare to have been
sinless, evincing to us, as it undoubtedly
does, that he experienced the bitterness
of his brief estrangement from God.

In another instance, we have on re-
cord within the pages of the standard of
Christian belief, that by revelation the
Apostle Peter was enabled to bear tes-
timony of Jesus and recognize him as

" Christ, the Son of the living God."
The Saviour's reply was — " Blessed art
thou, Simon Barjona; for flesh and
blood hath not revealed this unto thee,
but my Father which is in heaven ; and
thou art Peter, and upon this rock will
I build my church, and the gates of hell
shall not prevail against it." In this
passage, Jesus alluded to revelation as
being the rock on which he would
" buUd his Church."

That the Church of God cannot exist
without a channel of communication
being open, is shown by his dealings with
mankind. " Surely the Lord God will do
nothing but he revealeth his secrets to his
servants the Prophets." This evidently
implies that the Almighty, in his designs
or purposes for the welfare of his Church,
would reveal his views to those who
represented him on the earth, giving
them the authority to execute the same.
Through revelation God acquaints his
servants with whatever purposes he may
have in view, otherwise they would be
in ignorance of the fact that he desired
or designed anything. How could we
perform the will of our parents on the
earth without understanding what their
will might be P Could we really sup-
pose that our earthly parents would
countenance our disbelief in the neces-
sity of receiving directions from them ?
If we adopted our own views, and
acted upon them independently of those
whose authority and rule over us are
unquestionable, we should be considered
disobedient and insubordinate children*
Then, if we acted similarly with respect
to our Heavenly Father, are we not
amenable to him for our disobedience
and insubordination P

It is evident, then, that revelation
from God to man is requisite for his
guidance in his earthly career, that he
may have the assurance of his continual
safety, and the knowledge that God
recognises him. Mankind entertain the
notion that intelligence, wisdom, and
knowledge are so universal as to render
revelation unnecessary and dispensable.
If a man should come forth and declare
that he has received communication
from on high, would his testimony be
received P So widely does the self-
importance of men prevail, that God's
voice is unheeded. They have wan-
dered into the dark region of infidelity,
and seek no relief; but when his wrath

Digitized by

656 NECESSITY FOB

and indignation shall sweep the earth —
when God shall strike the unbeliever
and the ungodly with fear, they will
discover that they have rejected and
offended him. The picture of their in-
evitable distress is so terrible that
description fails to illustrate it.

Mankind offer up their prayers to
God, of whom they have but a meagre
conception, and yet manifest little con-
cern whether they receive answers to
their prayers or not, thus verifying the
scripture — "They draw near to me
with their lips, but their hearts are far
from me." Mankind have a form of
belief in God, and, as far as theory is
concerned, adhere to it, even to address-
ing their Maker in humble prayer ; but
it is devoid of power. It is a "form
of godliness," which is necessary to be
observed for the sake of appearances,
whether in their supplications or praises
any sincerity be manifested or not.
Thus men indulge in a form of com-
munion with God, and still they deny
the necessity of such communion. Is it
likely that our Heavenly Father would,
under such circumstances, reveal his
acknowledgements of their prayers,
inasmuch as they declare that such are
unnecessary? The rejection of this
principle — the leading feature of a
Divinely established Church by mankind,
proves, in connection with their rejection
of other important principles, their
condition of utter unbelief and darkness.
Men do not know whom they worship,
and are farther in darkness by the non-
intercourse between the God of their
worship and themselves. The world is
plunged into a sea of unbelief, which is
just the situation that ancient Prophets
nave declared they should be in. Is
there no escape from the calamity that
will ensue P God is a just and mer-
ciful being. He has shown sympathy
and regard for the whole of the human
family in many instances. He has en-
deavoured to save men from a similar
fate by his kindly interference. The
condition of the antediluvian world, in
their condition of unbelief and wicked-
ness, and the present situation of the
" Christian" world, are alike. They were
completely deaf to the admonitions of
God through Noah ; and notwithstanding
the warnings they received of the
approaching current of his wrath, they
persisted in their unbelief, and continued

BSTSLATIOX.

to pursue iniauity and vice. How often
from the polpit, in which stands the
professed minister of God, can we hear
repeated the consequences that followed
the people of that age! Imagine *
person like Noah coming forth in this
age declaring a similar destruction of
the world to that of the antediluvians i
— would not mankind denounce him*
as they did Noah, as a fanatic and an
impostor? Even were the presiding
prelate of the national church in this
country to come forward and declare
that God had revealed to him his designs
respecting the children of men, he would
be regarded as a lunatic, or something
equivalent, so prejudiced are mankind
against the idea of revelation being
essential, notwithstanding the palpable
proofs of its necessity.

The world apparently enjoy their
situation, and regard the sacred decrees
of God with mocking indifference.
They persist in taking their own course,
which, like that pursued by Noahs
persecutors, will lead them to a final
estrangement from their Creator. Still
he offers to mankind a means of attain-
ing glory and exaltation, notwithstanding
their past demerits, provided they will
yield to the order of his Church. In
order to understand the requirements
of the Gospel and the laws of his
kingdom, mankind are invited to ap-
proach him in humility and confidence,
having contrite spirits, and showing a
disposition to receive his word, which is
life to all who adhere thereto. " Prove
all things, and hold fast that which is
good." The same gifts and blessings
still follow obedience to the Gospel, and
every promise made by God to his
children will be fully realised. " If any
of you lack wisdom, let him ask of GocL
who giveth to all men liberally and up-
braideth not," is an invitation to all the
human family. If we have reliance on
God and his promises to man, why do>
we hesitate to accept his invitation?
If we doubt the divinity of the worlds
systems of religion, we have an assu-
rance from the Almighty that he will
liberally satisfy the humble and earnest
appeals of the enquirer. Thus God is
willing that mankind should hold com-
munion with him, and he has opened
the channel of revelation, that man may
from time to time become acquainted
with his mind and wilL

Digitized by

HIBTOBY OT JOSBPH SMITH.

657

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 643.)

We are also writing to Justin Butterfield,
Estj., U. S. Attorney for the district of
Illinois, who has kindly offered his services
to secure the Post Office to the General, he
having- been here and seen for himself the
situation; and probably his letter to the
department will arrive nearly as soon as

The election on the principle of Jefferson -
ian democracy, free trade, and protection of
person and property, is gaining ground in
every quarter. All is well at Nauvoo,
although some of the An ties are trying to do
us injury ; but their efforts are palsied, and
they make very little headway. You
remember the Preston motto, . 4 Truth will
prevail ! ' Therefore we go ahead.

Tou have the best wishes of the Council
and friends here.

I am, sir, most respectfully yours,

W. Richards, Recorder.

By order of the Council.

N. B. Tour families and friends were
well last information."

Sidney Rigdon resigned the office of
Postmaster of Nauvoo, and recom-
mended me as his successor.

The Maid of Iowa arrived at five p.m.

The High Council having directed
the following testimony to be published
in the Neighbour, I copy it, with the
editor's remarks, to show the character
of the men who are now seeking to
destroy my life and usefulness,- and
overthrow the work of the Lord which
he has commenced through my instru-
mentality : —

" Testimony of Margaret J. Nyman v.
Chauncey L. Higbee, before the High
Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints, in the city of Nauvoo,
May 21st, 1842.

Some time during the month of March
last, Chauncey L. Higbee came to my
mother's house early one evening, and
proposed a walk to a spelling school.
My sister Matilda and myself accompanied
him; but, changing our design on the
way, we stopped at Mrs. Fullers. During
the evening s interview, he, (as 1 have
ainced learned,) with wicked lies, pro-
posed that I should yield to his desires
and indulge in sexual intercourse with
him, stating that such intercourse might
be freely indulged in, and was no sin;
that any respectable female might indulge
in sexual intercourse, and there was no
Bin in it, provided the person so indulging

keep the same to herself ; for there could
be no sin where there was no accuser ;
and most clandestinely, with wicked He*,
persuaded me to yield by using the name
of Joseph Smith, and, as I nave since
learned, totally false and unauthorized ;
and in consequence of those arguments, I
was influenced to yield to my seducer,
Chauncey L. Higbee.

I further state that I have no personal
acquaintance with Joseph Smith, and
never heard him teach such doctrines as
stated by Chauncey L. Higbee, either
directly or indirectly. I heartily repent
before God, asking the forgiveness of my
brethren.

Margaret J. Nyman."

"State of Illinois, County of )
Hancock, City of Nauvoo, \

Nauvoo, May 24th, 1842.
Personally appeared before me, George
W. Harris, Alderman of the city aforesaid,
Margaret J. Nyman, the signer of the
above instrument, and testified under
oath that the above declaration is true.
Geo. W. Harris, Alderman."

"Nauvoo, May 21st, 1842.

During this spring, Chauncey li Higbee
kept company with me from time to time,
and, as I nave sinced learned, wickedly,
deceitfully, and with lies in his mouth,
urged me vehemently to yield to his
desires ; that there could be no wrong in
having sexual intercourse with any female
that could keep the same to herself;
most villanously and lyingly Btating that
he had been so instructed by Joseph
Smith, and that there was no sin where
there was no accuser ; also vowing he
would marry me.

Not succeeding, he, on one occasion,
brought one who affirmed that such inter-
course was tolerated by the heads of the
Church. 1 have since found him also to
be a lying conspirator against female
virtue and chastity, having never received
such teachings from the heads of the
Church ; but I was at the time partially
influenced to believe, in consequence of
the source from whom I received it.

I yielded, and became subject to the
will of my seducer, Chauncey L. Higbee ;
and having since found out to my satis-
faction that a number of wicked men
have conspired to use the name of Joseph
Smith, or the heads of the Church, falsely
and wickedly to enable them to gratify
their lusts, thereby destroying female

Digitized by

Google

65"8

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

innocence and virtue, I repent before
God and my brethren, and ask forgive-
ness.

I further testify that I never had any
personal acquaintance with Joseph Smith,
and never heard him teach such doctrines
as Higbce stated, either directly or indi-
rectly.

Matilda J. Nyhan."

44 State of Illinois, )
City of Nauvoo, )
May 2Ath, 1842.
Personally appeared before me, George
W. Harris, Alderman of the said city,
Matilda J. Nyman, the signer of the above
instrument, and testified under oath that
the above declaration was true.

Gbo.^V. Harris, Alderman."

« Nauvoo, May 24th, 1842.
Some two or three weeks since, in con-
sequence of brother Joseph Smith's teach-
ings to the singers, I began to be alarmed
concerning myself, and certain teachings
which I had received from Chauncey L.
Hicbce, and questioned him (Higbee)
about his teaching, for I was pretty well
persuaded, from Joseph's public teach-
ings, that Chauncey had _ been telling
falsehoods ; but Chauncey said that Joseph
now taught as he did through necessity
on account of the prejudices of the people,
and his own famdy particularly, as they
had not become believers in the doctrine.

I then became satisfied that all of
Chauncey's teachings had been false, and
that he had never been authorized by any
one in authority to make any such com-
munication to me.

Chauncey L. Higbee's teaching and
conduct were as follows : — When he first
came to my house, soon after the Special
Conference this spring, Chauncey com-
menced joking me about my getting mar-
Tied, and wanted to know how long it
had been since my husband died, and
soon -removed his seat near me, and began
his seducing insinuations by saying it
was no harm to have sexual intercourse
with women if they would keep it to
themselves, and continued to urge me to
yield to his desires, and urged me vehe-
mently, and said he and Joseph were good
friends, and he teaches me this doctrine,
and allows me such privileges, and there
is no harm in it, and Joseph Smith says so.

I told him 1 did not believe it, and had
heard no such teaching from Joseph, nor
from the stand, but that it was wicked to
commit adultery, &c

Chauncey said that did not mean single
women, but married women ; and con-
tinued to press his instructions and argu-
ments until after dark, and until I was

inclined to believe ; for he called God to
witness of the truth, and was so solemn
and confident, that I yielded to his tempta-
tions, having received the strongest assu-
rance from Trim that Joseph approved it
and would uphold me in it. He also told
me that many others were following the
same course of conduct.

As I still had some doubts near the
close of our interview, I again suggested
my fears that I had done wrong, and
should lose the confidence of the brethren,
when he assured me that it was right,
and he would bring a witness to confirm
what he had taught.

When he came again, I still had doubts.
I told him 1 understood he (Higbee) had
recently been baptized, and that Joseph,
when he confirmed him, told him to quit
all his iniquitous practices. Chauncey
said it was not for such things that he
was baptized. 'Do you think that I
would be baptized for such a thing, and
then go into it so soon again V

Chauncey Higbee said it would never
be known. I told him it might be told
in bringing forth. Chauncey said there
was no danger, and that Dr. Bennett
understood it, and would come and takj*
it away, if there was anything.

Sarah Miller,"

44 State of Illinois, )
City of Nauvoo, )

May 24*/i, 1842.
There appeared Sarah Miller, the signer
of the above instruments, and made oath
that the above declaration is true before
ma

Geo. W. Harris, Alderman."
Nauvoo, May 25th, 1842.

Extract from the testimony of Catherine
Warren v. Chauncey L. Higbee, before
the High Council of the Church, &c.

I have had an unlawful connection with
Chauncey L. Higbee. Chauncey Higbee
taught the same doctrine as was taught
by J. C. Bennett, and that Joseph Smith
taught and practised those things; bttfe
he stated that he did not have it from
Joseph, but he had his information from
Dr. John C. Bennett He, Chauncey L.
Higbee, has gained his object about five
or six times. Chauncey L. Higbee also
made propositions to keep me with food, if
I would submit to his desires."

" We have abundance of like testimony
on hand, which may be forthcoming it
we are compelled ; at present the fore-
going may suffice.

*Why have you not published this
before?' We answer — On account of the
humility and entreaties of Higbee at the

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

659

time, and on account of the feelings of his
parents, who are highly respectable, we
Lave forborne until now. The character
of 0. L. Higbee is so infamous, and his
exertions such as to destroy every princi-
ple of righteousness, that forbearance is
no longer a virtue.

After all that this Chauncey L. Higbee
lias done, in wickedly and maliciously
using the name of Joseph Smith, to per-
suade innocent females to submit to gratify
his hellish lusts, and then blast the
character of the most chaste, pure, virtu-
ous, and philanthropic man on earth, he,
to screen himself from the law of the
land and the just indignation of an in-
sulted people, and save himself from the
Penitentiary, or whatever punishment his
unparalleled crimes merit, has entered
into a conspiracy with the Laws and
others against the life of those who are
knowing to his abandoned conduct, thus
hoping to save himself from the disgrace
which must follow an exposure, and

wreak his vengeance and gratify his
revenge for his awful disappointments."

A two days' Conference was held in
Jefferson County, New York, at 10
a.m. Present, 300 Saints, 150 of whom
had embraced the Gospel since last
autumn. Nine branches were repre-
sented, containing 269* members, 1ft
Elders, 8 Priests, and 1 Teacher. An
immense concourse of people assembled
to hear the Elders preach. Elder
Benjamin Brown was President, and J.
W. Crosby, Clerk.

A three days' Conference was held
at Dresden, Weakly County, Tennessee.
Elder A. 0. Smoot was chosen Presi-
dent, and D. P. Baney, Secretary. A
large congregation assembled ; but the
proceedings were interrupted by a mob,
headed by some of the leading men of
the county ; yet a candidate for elector
was appointed by my friends.

(To b6 continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, October 12, 1861.

A DAKK AND TROUBLOUS FUTURE— THE SAINTS SHOULD
BE PREPARED.
o

"But <wheD we come to matters of fact, it is quite possible that, through bad harvests, through the
present l^ar in America and probable ("war in Europe, the next ten or twenty years may comprise soma
periods of general and serious calamity."— London Times, Oct 3, 1861.

Men who have been watching the political barometer for many years, and
noting every change with the same exactitude as the meteorologist would the rise
and fall of the mercury, are pretty confident, from tha present indications, that &
■war in Europe if* imminent. Where it will originate, or what will be the cause of
war, is difficult to say. The most trifling cause may produce it, and those who,
from their observation of and experience in political barometrical changes, think
it is impending, are scrutinizing every quarter of the horizon to endeavour to
discover its first appearance. Every nation is engaged in preparations more or
less extensive for the trial which all instinctively feel may not be long postponed.
There is a want of confidence painfully apparent among the nations of Europe.
Even those between whom a good understanding should prevail, being allies,
like England and France, view each other's movements with unconcealed and
avowed suspicion and distrust. And while this feeling prevails there is con-
tinual danger of a misunderstanding arising, which the suspicions and distrust
mutually entertained would render it difficult, if not impossible, to explain and
remove, without recourse to war.

Digitized by Google

680

EDITORIAL.

It is not, then, a matter of surprise that this being the condition of Europe,
and trade languishing in England for want of orders for goods from America*
and also cotton to supply her mills and keep her operatives employed — men
should be forced to exclaim that " it is quite possible that the next ten or twenty
years may comprise some periods of general and serious calamity" Such is the
conviction which the aspect of the times is forcing upon the minds of observant
and reflecting men, throughout the nation. They partially recognize the fact
that trouble and calamity are at hand, without investigating the causes which are
producing these evils, or the consequences which will attend them. They put
their own construction upon the events which are now transpiring, and are
unwilling to accept any other explanation than that which agrees with their
own views. In this manner, also, they make their own prognostications, looking
forward, of course, beyond the present prospective troubles to a happy future
which they hope to enjoy. If they were not so besotted with their own opinions,
they might be led to entertain a different view to this respecting the future and
the peace and happiness which it will produce.

But, whatever the opinion and views of others may be, the Latter-day Saints
should be prepared for the scenes which the future will unfold. Their principal
testimony has been that the Gospel has been again restored to the earth for the
purpose of preparing men for and saving them from the dire calamities which are
to be poured out without stint upon a world who persistently cling to their
wickedness. They, least of all, should not be deceived respecting the signs which
are fast making their appearance, and which are so strikingly confirmatory of the
word of the Lord respecting the future, with which they have been made
acquainted. They ought to know that the " periods of general and serious
calamity " are not to be followed, at the expiration of ten or twenty years, by a
period in which this and other nations can progress with uninterrupted pros-
perity. It is now time that the Saints should have correct views of the position
of the world and their relationship to it, and not suffer themselves to be deceived
with the idea that they can still continue their associations with Babylon and be
good Saints and escape the calamities that are coming upon her. The
Elders have lifted up their warning voice for many years throughout these lands.
They have faithfully declared to the people the message which the Lord has com*
missioned them to make known. But the trouble and calamities which they
predicted have made their appearance so gradually, and in some instances in so
different a manner from that which they anticipated, that many of the people
have grown quite careless upon the subject. At the time when they first
believed and obeyed the message, their fears were awakened, and they thought
they must flee immediately, or they would be overtaken and share the fate of
Babylon. But year after year has rolled around, and they still live, and Babylon
still stands, and a feeling of carelessness and of security has taken possession of
them, and they now think that a few years' longer stay will make but little
difference with them in the end in gathering to Zion.

While there is yet an opportunity for the people of God to flee from Babylon
and to accept the refuge which God has provided for them, we wish to place upon
record our solemn warning to the Saints throughout these lands to avail themselves
of it. The time, towards which the predictions of both ancient and modern Prophets
have been pointing, is nigh at hand. Babylon the Great, whose boast it has been
that " she sits a queen, and is no widow, and shall see no sorrow," is on the eve of
the most terrible convulsions— convulsions which will continue to agitate her

EDITOBIAL.

661

until her overthrow shall be completed. This the Saints should be prepared for.
It is a day that should not come upon them unawares as a snare. And, thai
it might not come upon them in this manner, the Lord has inspired men to warn
the inhabitants of the earth, that all who would hear their voice may escape,
through the means which he has appointed. He has likewise given plain and
pointed revelations, that they might know for themselves respecting these things.
One of these is now being fulfilled in a most striking manner in the eyes of all
nations, to the confusion of those who have despised «nd rejected it, but to the
joy and thanksgiving of all who are believers in his power.

Nearly twenty-nine years have elapsed since the Lord foreshadowed in plain
«nd unmistakable language the manner in which the calamities and destructions
which should overwhelm Babylon should commence ; and for that length of
time the inhabitants of the earth have been warned respecting them. To the
United States especially, as being the nation which should first experience the
shock, the warning has been iterated and reiterated in every possible form ; but
with only sufficient success to gather out a few who had confidence in the warn-
ing. The nation itself rejected it by killing and persecuting those who received
And gave it publicity. Many who heard the warning, and at the first believed
it, were deceived into the belief that they could remain a few years longer and
•continue their associations with Babylon and yet escape. We are familiar with
many such instances. They had enough means to take them through to Zion ;
but they wished a little more, or they had some other wish to gratify. If they
tad obeyed' the warning as soon after they first heard it as they could, they
would have been saved much anxiety and trouble, and perhaps would have length-
ened out their days. Now, the property which they have laboured hard to obtain
is so depreciated in value, and is so unsaleable, that it is not difficult to perceive
that, if they go to Zion, they will be compelled to go in the condition in which it
has been predicted many would go— namely, with a bundle on their back.

In the city of St. Louis — a city containing probably a larger number of apos-
tates than any other of its size in the United States — a number of the Saints
from this country with others, tempted by the advantages which presented them-
selves for obtaining employment and accumulating means, have from time to
time stopped, when, if they had exercised patience and economy, they could have
pushed their way on to the Valley. The late accounts from there represent matters
as being in a dreadful condition. Business is broken up, the surrounding
country is ravaged with contending armies, martial law is .leclared, and no one is
permitted to pass beyond certain prescribed limits without a pass from the military
•commandant. Under these circumstances, what must be the reflections of those
who, believing the warning which God has given, have nevertheless treated it
with contempt ? They who have done their best to get out of Babylon, but who,
for want of means to go further, have been compelled to stop there, can
approach the Lord in faith and ask him for his protection and care. And, doubt
it not, if there be any such, they will be shielded and delivered. But how can
the other class approach him with faith to ask for deliverance when they had the
opportunity of going, but would not accept it P With what feelings of sorrow
and anguish approaching to despair must they view their reckless folly, and
especially if the consequences fall not only upon themselves, but upon their
wives and families !

We trust the Saints throughout this Mission will be warned by the signs of the
times and the events which have taken place, as well as by the testimony of the

Digitized by

662

EDITORIAL.

servants of the Lord. You are comparatively free, up to the present time, from
many of the threatening evils ; and you should therefore let no exertion be spared
on your part to separate yourselves from Babylon and all its associations. Our
prayers should be offered up unitedly and unceasingly to the Lord to open up the
way for the deliverance of his people, that every obstacle may be removed from
the pathway of every faithful man and woman throughout the earth, and that the
anxious thousands may have the opportunity of " flying like doves to their
windows." For, be assured, the day is not far distant when they who would
escape the coming misery and the wrath and indignation and chastening hand of
Almighty God must stand in holy places.

News from Home. — We have lately received letters from the Valley, from
President Young and Elder Woodruff, giving us cheering news of progress in
the mountain home of the Saints.

We learn from the President's letter that Elders N. V. Jones, Jacob Gate*
and Claudius V. Spencer arrived in G. S. L. City on the 15th of August, and
Elder David H. Cannon and company on the 16th. All the companies had
passed Laramie by the 16th, except Elder Joseph W. Young's train, which was ex-
pected there in a day or two after. The emigration generally was proceeding wel^
the train sent from G. S. L. City being able to take all from Florence who were
desirous of going, as well as all the freight sent for.

A number of persons have been selected to make a good settlement in Uinta
Valley this fall.

Since returning from their late visit to the southern settlements, the Pre-
sidency have held meetings in Springville, Lehi, Centreville, Farmington, and
Tooele ; and they purpose on the 6th of September visiting Ogden City and tha
settlements north of that place and in Cache Valley, for the same purpose. Elder
Woodruff says — " President Young has turned missionary, and goes out to preach
every other Sunday in the country."

We are also pleased to learn that the Telegraph Companies, east and west, are
employing large forces and strenuously endeavouring to get their magnetic wires
laid down as far as G. S. L. City, and to have everything in complete working order,
at farthest, by the 1st of December.

Dr. Bernhisel is to return to Washington, during this fall, as Delegate to Con*
gress for Utah.

We also learn that, owing to existing troubles aud war-scenes in the States
gome Gentile families have left there and fled to the mountains of Utah, desir-
ing a home with the Saints in their peaceful retreat. More were expected to
follow their example, thus fulfilling the words of the Prophet that those who
-would not take up their sword against their neighbour must needs flee to Zion
for safety.

The remnant of the army have "gone home to the States," says Elder
Woodruff. "They sold all their grain, flour, groceries, supplies, their fort
and buildings, and everything appertaining thereto, except their arms and
ammunition, which they destroyed. They shot away their shells, burst their
mortars, buried their powder and 25,000 stand of arms : this by order of Govern-
ment, so that the Mormons could not get them." The writer, however, seems to
hold a different opinion as to the capability of the " Mormons" in discovering the
hidingplace ; for he adds — " But if the trains of waggons I have seen going into

COB&ESPONDBNCE.

663

Q. S. L. City, loaded with gun-barrels, ramrods, cannon balls, and cast-iron
shells, mean anything, I should judge somebody was supplying the foundries
and blacksmiths' shops !"

The crops of almost all kinds throughout the Territory are reported as being
•generally in very good condition, notwithstanding a superabundance of rain*
which, while doing good service in many places, has done some damage in others.
Elder Woodruff says — " We have had the greatest rain of late that we ever had
in August in this country. It was quite extensive during the time. There was
the heaviest bursting of clouds in the kanyons we ever experienced. It filled
Big and Little Cottonwood Kanyons and Mill Creek Kany on with water from
17 to 20 feet deep, carrying away trees, logs, rocks, dams, lumber, bridges, and
mills in its course. No lives lost, but many men, women, and children w«re
saved as by a miracle."

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

BIRMINGHAM DISTRICT.

Birmingham, Sept. 28, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — It affords me
much pleasure to communicate to you
the condition and the prospects of the
work of the Lord in this portion of his
rineyard. All things look favourable,
and prospects appear prosperous. The
Saints evince a great desire to grow in
the truth, to acquire the principles of
the kingdom best suited to their present
position and circumstances, and to put
into practical operation those things
which in their nature are calculated to
make them wiser and better. They
seem to grow in grace and in the know-
ledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and
long to gather with the favoured in
Zion, there to learn more of the Lord
and his holy laws and government.

The Priesthood generally are doing
their duty ; they walk in counsel and in
the light of the Spirit, and are assid-
uous in promulgating the glad tidings
revealed again to man. They are busily
engaged throughout the Conference in
preaching in the "highways and
hedges, " and calling earnestly the
etraying children of our Father to come
into the fold. Every opportunity that
offers itself is embraced with avidity
and cheerfulness to declare the truth to
all willing to hear; and the spirit of
wisdom is manifested by preaching only
euch things as the common mind can
comprehend, and the higher and more

advanced principles are not touched
upon. On this point I am very emphatic
in my instructions to the Priesthood,
that they preach only the first principles
plainly, convincingly, and spiritedly,
and preach those things which will in-
terest and save the people now.

I cannot but express myself gratified
with the faithfulness and zeal of the
Priesthoodin general in this Conference.
They move among men with a desire to
save, and not to appear great ; and all
cavilling and unnecessary disputations
are wisely and honourably avoided in
their administrations. A patient and
willing hearing is obtained whenever
they raise their voices generally, and an
inclination to investigate our claims is
manifested, and the Spirit of the Lord
appears to work with the good word
ainong many. Not only have wo
chapels open in all the Branches for
public worship, but several private
nouses of the Saints are opened during
the week nights and Sabbaths for the
preaching of the word and testimony.
Many of the Saints hope to emigrate
next season, and they are determined to
do all the good they can while they
remain, in giving opportunities to their
neighbours and enquirers to hear the
Gospel and receive of its blessings.
The consequence is, that we are bap*
tizing weekly, and hope to do so more
abundantly. We desire to do our duty
manfully, and leave the result with, the
Lord of the vineyard.

Digitized by VjOOQIC

664 •

COBJLBSPONDBNCS.

We have realized blessings from the
visit of Presidents Lyman, Rich, and
yourself, at oar Conference; and an
impetus is given to the work which will
be felt, I trust, in time and eternity.

In the Warwickshire Conference,
brother S. L. Adams is dobs his duty,
keeping matters moving well; and the
Priesthood and Saints rejoice in the
truth. Several have been baptized of
late, and the same spirit is enjoyed as
In other parts of the Mission.

Elders E. Cliff and W. Hopwood are
enjoying the spirit of their mission, and
have toe confidence of the Saints
in their Conferences. Indeed, we have
much to congratulate ourselves about,
and to be humble and grateful for.
The Lord is singularly owning and
blessing the worE and his servants,
and speaking at home and abroad in
powerful signs and accents that Zion is
established and preparing for the develop-
ment of those purposes and glories
that ancient and modern, dead and living
Prophets have declared so fervently and
announced so distinctly to the sons and
daughters of men.

Yours very truly,

W. G. Mills,

MANCHESTER DISTRICT.

Manchester, Sep. 30, 1881.

Dear Brother George, —

Yesterday week, in company with
brothers Dame and Mc Bride, I attended
a meeting at Bolton, where the Priest-
hood and Saints of nine Branches were
represented. We had a first-rate time.
The Branch Presidents reported their
oharges in a very floarishing condition,
so far as the feelings of the Saints and
their faith in the work were concerned, —
a report to which the spirit enjoyed by
themselves and the congregated Saints
bore strong corroborative evidence.

Yesterday we attended another of the
Same kind in Ashton, at which eight
other Branches were represented, and a
good spirit pervaded the assembly,
in each place the attendance was very
good, both of Saints and strangers, the
rooms bein^ crowded ; and some good
musicians discoursed sweet music to us,
which enlivened our meetings. Our
prospects are bright for an increase of
members through the entire Conference,
though short time in the factories,

and consequent curtailment of means
among the people, tell a sad story, and
many of them fear for the future. I do-
not know, at the present time, of any in
the Manchester or Preston Conferences)
who are working full time, while there
is a general fear that the new year will
see matters much worse, as the stock of
cotton now on hand will be about
worked up by that time. In fact there
is every prospect of many thousand*
round this district of country being on
shortbread during the coming winter.
Still, appearances are good thoughout
the entire District for the spread of the
work and an influx of fresh material*
In Manchester Conference there have
been over thirty baptized in the last

Quarter, and brother Sloan informs me
tiat they have baptized twenty in the
Liverpool Conference during the past
month.

I have been travelling round very busy
from Branch to Branch, and visiting
from house to house, in company with
brother Dame, since I left Liverpool,
mixing with the people ; and in some
places it is really trying to see the
anxiety manifested by the Saints for
emigration, and their fear that the
shortening of their work will operate
against them. In one family, when the
sisters learned that they were to work
short time, they went home and cried
bitterly that a barrier was being placed
in their way of gathering ; and this is
only one of several cases of a similar
kind that have come under my notice.
Still their faith and hopes are that the
Lord will overrule circumstances in
behalf of his people.

May the Lord oless you continually
in all your labours. With kind love to
yourself and all with you, in which the
brethren here join,

I remain yours in the truth,

John M. Kay.

WALES.
Swansea, Sept 29, 1861.
Dear President Cannon, — A few days

XI returned from Cardiganshire,
ch is attached to the Llanelly Con-
ference. The Llanelly Conference em-
braces Carmarthen and Cardigan shires*
I attended a District Council in the
latter a week ago to-day, and most ex-

8UMMXBT OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

665

brethren present. Among the business
transactions of the Council, we organ-
ized a new Branch of the Church at
Llanfair, where nine persons have been
baptized. Elder John Evans, of Dow-
laifl, has faithfully and zealously
preached in that locality and other
parts of the country. He has also bap-
tized two at Llangrannog, and several
more have given in their names for bap-
tism in the surrounding neighbourhood.

The people are crowding by hun-
dreds to hear the Gospel at present in
Cardiganshire. The parson of the
Church of England at Lampeter is using
all his energy to hinder the people from
coming to hear the Elders preach at
that place ; but I am happy to say that
all his efforts have the contrary effect.
A Methodist preacher, two weeks ago,
was passing by when brother John
Evans was preaching there, and in a
very sanctimonious tone said that Elder
Evans 44 ought to be pulled down, "when
one of the men in the large crowd
answered — 44 If you pull him down, you
will pull down a better man than your-
self ! " Several of the different denomi-
nations in that part of the country are
willing that we should preach in their
meetinghouses, and they say that it would
be much more coml or table for us than
to preach out-of-doors, as the weather is
now wet and cold.

Brother David M. Davies and myself
preached last Sunday evening at the
same place. We held our District
Council in the morning, and after the

close of the meeting two females were
baptized, and one man gave in his name
to be baptized the next day. I
have appointed a young man, of the
Cardiff Conference, of the name of
Francis D. Hughes, to travel in the
Llanelly Conference.

I am almost daily receiving good newt
from the Conferences. Elder Beeg
writes that they are continuing to bap-
tize, and that the prospects of baptizing
more is very flattering in the Eastern
Glamorgan Conference. Brother Joseph
W. Morgan, a Travelling Elder in the
Cardiff Conference, also informs ns that
they have baptized several lately in that
Conference, and that many more are
investigating our doctrines. Elder John
Gibbs, President of the Pembrokeshire
Conference, says that several there are
receiving the Gospel, and that lately
they have baptized two. One of them
is an old man, seventy-nine years of age ;
and after he was conformed, he bore a
faithful testimony that he received a
blessing from the Lord.

The Priesthood and Saints in Wales
are good people, trying to live their hoi j
religion, with but very few exceptions.
There have been five or six baptized in
the Western Glamorgan Conferences also
during the last few weeks.

Praying God to bless you, with Presi-
dents Lyman and Rich, and all the
faithful,

I remain yours truly,
Thomas E. Jrbemt.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy.-— The small band of reactionists
commanded by Gen. Borges has been beaten
by the Italian troops. The greater number
of them were afterwards made prisoners by
the peasants. Borges himself, with a few
men, is still at large ; but it is hoped that
their arrest will soon be effected. The trial
of Christen has commenced. The Sentinelle
says — " On the 3rd of October, Austria will
set at liberty the Modenese political prisoners
who have been incarcerated in the dungeons
of Mantua since 1859.

Hungary.— The building in which the
sittings of the Assembly of the Comitat of
Pesth are held have been occupied by the
military, and the members prevented by
force from assembling. All the function-
aries in the Comitant of Pesth have tendered

their resignations. Large crowds have
assembled before the building where the
sittings of the Assembly of the Comitat are
held. The surrounding streets are occupied
by troops. A lieutenant with his sword
drawn forbade the deputies to enter the
building. The people are greatly excited,
but order has not been disturbed. The
magistrate of the Comitat has tendered hit
resignation. On leaving the hall of
assembly more than 5,000 persons assem-
bled to accompany him home. They wen
followed by military patrols. "When the
peoplereachedthepalaceofmeObergespann,
the magistrate delivered a speech, to which
the Obergespann replied. The crowd then
dispersed without committing any distur-
bances. A Genoa telegram states that at a

Digitized by CjOOg IC

666

POETRY.

meeting of Hungarian leaders, at which
Kossuth was present, the republican form
of government was abandoned, and one of
the lineal descendants of St. Stephen was
chosen as king.

Egypt. — From a letter from Alexandria,
of the 14th of September, it appears that the
rise of the Nile is much greater than the
average height at the same season. In
"Upper Egypt the flood has broken through
the dykes in many places, causing much
damage. At Arman, an gstate belonging to
Mustapha Pasha, the inundation has de-
stroyed a plantation of sugar cane. If the
Nile continues to rise in the same degree
for eight or ten days, which was to be
expected, the destruction of property on
both banks will be very considerable.

America. — It is reported that 11,000
Confederates have taken possession of May-
field, Kentucky, and are fortifying it. The
battle at Lexington, Missouri, was pro-

fressing on "Wednesday. Price attacked the
ederals with 30,000 'men. The Federals
numbered 3,500. The Confederates were

scattered by a bayonet charge of the IriA
brigade.. Six hundred Confederates have
been routed at Blue Mills Landing, Missouri,
by 1,500 Federals. The Confederate Ion
was heavy. The accounts from the valleys of
the Mississippi and Missouri show an extra-
ordinary activity in all the States bordering
on those rivers. In the State of Missouri,
the whole population are in arms and m
engaged in bloody strife, while on tiie
Kentucky side of the river thousands of tfie
population are flocking to arms to support
the rival causes. In Missouri the Con-
federates have apparently the ascendancy
in the southern half of the State, whilst the
Federalists still hold their ground in the
northern half. In Kentucky the Con-
federates hold the districts along the banks
of the Mississippi, whilst the Federalists hold
the central and eastern districts. Southern
telegraphic communication was stopped.
The Confederates, 2,000 strong, are said to
be approaching Jefferson City. A skirmish
had taken place near Kansas City, resulting
in the death of seven Confederates. The
Confederate barracks were destroyed.

POETRY.

THE ROCKY MOUNTAINS.

With joy well hail the coming spring,
Por blessings on us she will bring,

And from our inmost souls well sing
A last farewell to England.

Naught to us now is childhood's heme ;

We'll cross the ocean's briny foam,
And o'er the prairies wo will roam.

To yonder Rocky Mountains.

Oh, there wo shall be blest and free,
And raise our thanks, O God, to the^

And dwell in peace and unity
Up in the Rocky Mountains.

When war shall all his horrors spread.
And thousands number with the dead,

The Saiuts of God will theu have fled
Unto tho Rocky Mountains.

London.

For famine's breath this earth will dry,
And multitudes for food will die,

Unless they to the mountains fly-
E'en to the Rocky Mountains.

What care we, then, though sons of pridt
Scorn in their splendour, and deride ?

For who'll be on the sunny side,
When we are in the Mountains?

To England soon we'll bid farewell ;

In Zion's land wo soon will dwell :
With gladuess more than words can tell,

We'll hasten to the Mountains.

Watch o'er us, then, O God, we pray,
And grant that soon may come the day.

When all creation's sous will say.
" We're going to tho Mountains."

JCLIA BOWKTJO.

CONTENTS.

Origin of Man 651 Correspondence.— England : Letters from Elders

Necessity for Revelation 655 \\\ g. MOls and John M. Kay.— Wales: Letter

History of Joseph Smith 657 from EWer Thomas R. Jeremy ~ €«

Editorial — A Dark and Troublous Future— The Summary of News and Passing Events -

Saints should bo Prepared.— News from Home 659 Poetrv.— 44 The Rocky Mountains." 96*

LIVERPOOL: ' J

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 45, IWNGTOH.
L, LONDON: 8

F0R BALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS SJSflf
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BQQKSELERS. >»'

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAE.

"4 noise shall corns even to the end* of the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy xvith ths nations: he wilt
plead with all flesh ; he will give them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Zord."— J lain iah.

No. 42, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, October 19, 1861.

Price One Penny.

REGENERATION OF THE WORLD—FAILURE OF ATTEMPTS TO

ACCOMPLISH IT.

i It appears to be a peculiar trait of
tfee human character to look forward
with hope for the coming of a better
condition of things than that actually
existing — to believe that though things
are bad and daily growing worse, the
future will yet open its store of precious
blessings, and bestow them upon expect-
ant and suffering humanity. So com-
pletely does this trait seem to enter into
the character of mankind, that those
who darken the future with the sombre
hues of present suffering or past misery
are looked upon as misanthropes, who
lack faith in the ultimate happiness,
exaltation, and social regeneration of
tfie human family in this present life.
If, m not confined to any one sect or
party — neither to one nation or time. It
has kept alive the faith of the down-
trodden and oppressed in many a land,
groaning under the tyrant power of
usurping conquerors, and cheered
many a lonely prisoner in his dungeon
cell, who, confined, perhaps, for the too
free expression of his convictions and
opinions, looked forward with undying
hope to the ultimate triumph of the
cause for which he suffered. Believing
in it, and acting upon that belief, num-
berless sehemes have been planned by

f philanthropists, religious and irreligious,
or the amelioration of the condition of
mankind, and the ushering in of that

era when the human family shall live
under the full fruition of enlightened
and developed manhood ; and though all.
have not expressed it so beautifully,
yet their hearts have echoed tho words,
of the poet, who, inspired by this faith
in a glorious future, declared —
I live to hail the season
By gifted minds foretold,
When men shall lire by reason,
And not atone for gold. „

To simply recapitulate the schemes
which have been already tried to accom-
plish this desirable consummation,
would be to chronicle an endless variety
of plans and conceptions; to examine
them minutely would require volumes
of the biography of their originators
and propagators, their temporary suc-
cesses, and eventual failures. Some of
them might be casually noticed with
advantage, as evidences of the hitherto-
abortive attempts of man to labour sue*
ce8sfully, unaided by a mightier
power than mere roan is in possession
of, to secure the permanent good
desired ; though the fact that all have
failed is of itself sufficient proof of
man's impotenoy to prescribe success-
fully for the world-spread disease under
the blighting influence of which man-
kind are deteriorating physically, men-
tally, and socially. The missionary
efforts of denominational Christians to
spread what they designate the Gospel

Digitized by

Google

663

REGENERATION OF THE WORLD, ETC.

of salvation and regeneration are patent
to all the world, and the poor return
for the toil, labour, zeal, and money
expended is too well known to com-
ment upon. For centuries have these
enterprises been seconded with the
wealth, learning, talent, and influence
of Christendom. Long before Protest-
ant societies dreamed of carrying their
different faiths to the idol worshippers
of other lands, the followers of Loyala
and other prominent adherents of the
papacy earned the story of Christ and
his terrible death to remote corner^ of
the earth. If we were to measure the
truthfulness of the religion they carried
with them by the zeal displayed and
appalling dangers daringly met, no
system, no plan could be better or
truer. Difficulties seemed but incentives
to more zealous and courageous efforts,
and death in its most horrid forms was
unable to daunt them. The deepest
self-abnegation, the loftiest heroism,
and most untiring zeal displayed by
Protestant missionaries never exceeded
that of the Jesuits, whose very name is
held in abhorrence by every Protestant
community for the sinuous and Machia*
velian policy pursued by them, acting
ever upon the maxim that " the end
justifies the means.

The quarrels on points of faith and
practice between rival religionists and
their missionary emissaries, wo may
leave them to adjust as best thov can,
the results of their operations being of
more importance in our present con-
siderations. It is a paintul fact, but
nevertheless it is a fact, that every
heathen nation to whom modern Chris-
tianity has been introduced, and with
whom members of professedly Christian
nations have mingled, have suffered by
the contact. Their open violence has
in many instances been changed to
virulent hypocrisy ; and while retaining
many of their original and primitive
vices, the ingrafting of the Christian's (P)
vices has made them worse members of
society and worse men and women than
they wero before they were sub-
jected to the blessings (!) of the religion
introduced among them. Isolated in-
stances might perhaps be brought for-
ward of individuals who were really
benefited by the principles taught them ;
but the authenticity or such conversions
rests upon the questionable testimony

of those who wrought the conversions,
and who would not be much inclined to
depreciate their own success. But
granting the truth of these cases, the
general condition of the peoples with
whom Christian communities have
mingled and traded, and among whom
Christian missionaries have laboured
and preached, is the very reverse of
what it is often represented. Corrupted
morals, unbridled licentiousness, blas-
phemy, and intemperance have at-
tended the steps of civilized Christian
communities through the dark lands of
heathendom. Truly did Jesus paint
the results of their commingling and
labours when addressing the Pharisees
of his day — " Ye hypocrites ! ye com-
pass sea and land to make one proselyte ;
and when ye have made him, he is two-
fold more the child of hell than your-
selves."

Missionary magazines may paint in
glowing terms the condition of increas-
ing converts ; but these converts are too
often purchased to profess a faith they
neither understand nor regard, by the
means so assiduously collected in
this and other lands for missionary pur-
poses ; and the next proselytizer could
buy them from their new accepted
faith by a higher bid of an extra com-
fort or an additional piece of money.
How could it well be otherwise, since
the dealings of Christian nations with
heathen ones have ever been marked by
cruelty, injustice, bloodshed, rapine,
and fraud P Spain of the olden times
furnished her bloodthirsty and rapa-
cious soldiery with priests who, if
history speaks truthfully, were as cruel
and avaricious as the armed wolves
they accompanied. Cortes and Mexico,
Pizarro and Peru are names and
nations that speak of cruelty relentless,
and avarice unsatiable, shrouded in the
guise of religion and salvation.

The scene has been changed, but not
the spirit. Other powers assume the
unenviable distinction of thus spreading
religion and civilization ; and three cen-
turies later, Britain, France, and
America, who claim the foremost place
in civilization, enlightenment, and reli-
gion, carry commerce, protection, and
religion lo the nations lying in
idolatry, with the same results. Well
might Montgomery say, speaking of the
extension of British arms to India —

Digitized by

[REGENERATION OF

THE WORLD, ETC.

669

" War disguised as commerce came ;
Britain carrying sword and flaine,
Won an empire — lost her name !"

Britain coercing India, forcing the
odious opium traffic upon China, bat-
tling with the aborigines of New Zea-
land, or sending her criminals, the
Tery scum and filth of society, to mingle
-with the aborigines of her colonies;
France extending her protection to
Madagascar and the South Sea Islands ;
and America sending her conscience-
Beared and heart-hardened sons to the
gold coast of Africa ! These are the
centres from which the regenerating
faiths proceed ; and as the fountain, so
the stream ; as the tree, so the fruit.
Well might the poor idolatrous heathen
retaliate upon the missionaries pent
among them, if they possessed sufficient
knowledge, with " Return to the land
you come have from, and leave us in our
ignorance and comparative innocence ;
tof we have no wish to become inocu-
lated with a faith which produces such
fruits as we witness in the lives of Chris-
tians. Return home ; for from the
specimens we have seen there must be
ample room for you to try the efficacy
of that religion you speak so highly of
among your countrymen."

Missionary enterprises have pro-
duced miserable fruits, and we can
have no faith in their potency to re-
generate the world, and usher in the

?eriod of moral and social exaltation,
he efforts of Home Associations, So-
cieties, and Institutions have had no
l>etter success, or the poor heathen
could not have it in his power to reta-
liate as we have supposed. Hence,
men who abjured religion, ridiculed
Christianity, and avowed atheism, have
endeavoured to bring about the desired
consummation on secular principles.

The French Revolution of the last
century, inaugurated and conducted by
avowed atheists, has often been quoted
by religionists as proof positive that
infidelity is impotent to bless or benefit
humanity, while secularists have retali-
ated that it was the leaven of priest-
craft and the ignorance in which it had
kept the people that were the cause of
the enormities enacted in that bloody
drama. Be that as it may, since that
period secularism has had ample oppor-
tunities of introducing some scheme to
effect the desired purpose, and to bring
about the "good time" so ardently

wished for. Nor have these opportuni-
ties been neglected. Fourier, Cabet,
Owen, and a host of other less-
noted aspirants to philanthropic honours
have successively planned and endea-
voured to act upon schemes, each of
which in its turn was vaunted as the
only means capable of remodelling
society upon a correct basis and regene-
rating humanity. But the communism
of Fourier and the indefatigable
exertions of Owen, with the efforts of
others, met the like success. All
failed— miserably failed. Crowned
heads were solicited for assistance,
which in some instances was partially
granted ; scientific men were sought
after as coadjutors, and not without
success; talent, wealth, and influence
were not withheld ; privileges were
granted, but they availed not : the bud
withered before it was blown, the trunk
perished for want of sap, and the
schemes with their originators were
swept into the mighty ocean of the
past, to be numbered with the things
that were ; and new schemes, with fresh
labourers, who hoped to improve upon
the failures of their predecessors, met
with the like success. Intemperance
reigned, and reigns as potently as
before, numbering as many victims as
ever ; crime is as plentiful, discord as
rampant, flaunting vice as brazen, anyl >
corruption walks the streets at noonday,
fellowshipped by talent, winked at by
piety, and worshipped by the many,
conjointly with mammon.

One glaring defect in all the schemes
yet proposed by man for the ameliora-
tion of his kind has been the want of
unanimity in the projectors and propa-
gandists of them. Whether religious
or secular, jarrings, contentions, and
diversities of opinion have character-
ized them; and such will continue to be
'the case while individual opinion is
erected as the standard of right.
While men have no common standard
of excellence to which all can bow with
reverence and own its superiority,
pride, ambition, and the conciousness of
possessing talent will prompt men to
reject the opinions and views of others
whose superiority they will not admit,
and sedulously strive to inculcate their
own. As almost every mother believes
her child to be the prettiest and best,
so every independent thinker will con-
Digitized by Google

670

UNDERSTANDING AND MEMORY.

ceive that the bantling of his own brain
is without an equal. Hence, though
each may by superior abilities gather
around him followers who are implicit
believers in his scheme or plan, the
whole will be split up into fragmentary
sections impotent to bless the whole,
because each section will be dictated to
and led only by its own oracle. The
present condition of the religious and
secular camps proves the truth of this.
They are no nearer a unity of faith
and action among themselves than they
were half-a-century ago ; nay, they are
more riven asunder. Unbelievers, or
infidels, havenumerous sections of Deists
and numerous sections of Atheists, each
clustering round its chieftain and head ;
and the miserably disunited condition
of Christianity needs no comment. It
is not man who can provide the remedy
needed to regenerate mankind, but God,
the author of man, — God,whose existence
and intervention has been ignored by

the Christian and scouted by the atheist,
— God the fountain of truth, of wisdom,
and intelligence. He who knoweth man
because he organized and constituted
him — who understandeth his wants
because he knows what his constitutional
requirements are, — he alone can reveal
the desideratum which men have zeal-
ously laboured to discover— the plan
whereby humanity can be regenerated
and exalted ; and the Gospel of truth,
the science of life, the laws whereby
existence can be perpetuated and hap-
pified, is the remedy, powerful to arrest
the spread of moral disease, potent to
unite in one hallowed brotherhood all
who will give heed to its sacred injunc-
tions, and fitted to meet man's require-
ments in every condition of life, making
him free, noble, and happy here, ana
exalting him to celestial glory in
that dim future curtained by the
shadow of the grave.

UNDERSTANDING AND MEMORY.

BY ELDER JOHN K. GRIST.
" Understandest thou what thou readest?"— (Acts viii. 30.)

This question necessarily implies the
want of an instructor, and will apply
to either philosopher or scholar, because
the wisest cannot obtain his wisdom
without first learning to understand,
even as the scholar acquires knowledge
by study or the application of thought
to the task assigned him. Education is
intended to foster the growth of the
faculties, while knowledge arises from
the exercise of the intellectual powers.
So, likewise, moral and religious truths
have their weight upon the mind
according to the exercise of the reason-
ing faculty. Teaching does not consist
merely in giving lessons of information
according to arrangements of book-
learning, as this is often done without
enlightening the faculties of inquiry or
prompting the growth of the powers of
mind, which prevent it from acting in a
proper direction. Mental, moral, and
spiritual health, like bodily health,
depends upon the due regulation and
exercise of all the functions. To use
the arm is not to exercise the whole
body ; so to use the memory is not to
use all the capacities that the mind is

endowed with. The culture in either
case is partial, but does not leave the
other functions unimproved.

The torch of reason becomes dim, if
not fed with fresh oil ; our faculties, if
not polished by use, rust in idleness ; so
that, by giving no work to the higher
powers, we stunt or paralyze them : we
"lock up and imprison the soul, con-
fining it in a cage of cramped dimensions,
instead of causing it tQ dilate to its
proper stature."

True education is not obtained merely
by putting something into the mind, but
by calling something forth out of it, or
by a continued increase of development.
For instance, a scholar may have learnt
by memory to repeat lessons in history,
geography, and many of the sciences
and systems of philosophy; but this
does not make him a historian, or a
professor of science, unless he has
become master of these accomplishments
by fully understanding them. Some-
times, by reason of false systems of
education, the minds of children are
treated like so much blank paper to
print catechisms or other lessons on; and

Digitized by Google

TrNDKBSTANDING AND JkTBMOBY.

671

those who have merely received such
kind of learning aro no wiser than a
book which receives the impressions of
the types, but do not understand any-
thing about them. Or, to take another
-view, those who learn simply by re-

Cting so many words are like mere
k-shelves: although the shelves may
contain more than the best stored me-
mory, yet neither a book-shelf nor a book
.can be called wise or educated. So it
is not education to put into the memory
what the mind does not comprehend.
Indeed such a plan is injurious, because
it does not exercise the intellect, but
lulls it to sleep, and so weakens it by
inactivity. Clear ideas are generated
* by the exercise of reason : thought must
precede feeling, just as impressions of
' sympathy are awakened in the heart by
descriptive ideas, even as a beggar moves
. ns to pity by his plaintive appeals. But
we do not feel pity until we have the
distress as it were pictured on our
minds ; we do not feel affection until we
' perceive kindness or worth, or think we
1 perceive it. So, likewise, our admiration
of that which is good is caused by the
feeling of love and reverence in us,
according as we form our ideas resepect-
ing the attributes of God and of his
power and wisdom as displayed in his
works ; for in it there is something to
"be understood. This shows the necessity
of great care being observed in religious
instruction, and in producing religious
feeling, and drawing the affections of
the heart and placing them on that
which is purely divine and truthful in
. its 'nature; for impressions are deeply
. fixed in the minds of youth, according
to the course of training they receive ;
and nothing can be more hurtful, in-
' tellectually, than to accustom the mind
to words and phrases which are not
understood, and which mean nothing as
far as thoughts are concerned, making
us carelessly satisfied with sound
instead of sense, and leaving the mind
in a thick mist, in consequence of the
-vagueness of our apprehension. How"
important it is, then, that we should
understand the things we profess to
learn, more especially in our endeavours
to obtain a correct knowledge of fixed
principles ; for there can be no well-
rooted principle where there is no clear
insight into those truths on the know-
ledge of which'our responsibility rests.

The course pursued by our Saviour
and his Apostles was to teach plain
truths. The parables which were
uttered by Christ to the Jews were in-
tended to let the truth down to the level
of their capacities, and even suited the
capacity of children. His object also
was to give men ideas — real instruction,
and he was and is the great Teacher.
This shows the necessity of interesting
the thoughts upon any subject we take in
hand, either in learning ourselves or in
instructing others ; for without sharpen-
ing the faculties, or quickening the
understanding, the mind is barren and
unfruitful. Even as it is pleasant to
behold the light of the sun with the
bodily eyes and the beauties which that
light reveals, so it is still more pleasant
to open the eye of reason upon the
beauty, harmony, and force of truth ; '
and this can be done without burden-
ing the memory. The mind can retain
a vast amount of information, which
can be stored up in the memory with-
out being overburdened with a multi-
plicity of words. In many cases words
are introduced into the memory whilst
the idea never enters the mind.

The great object of words is not to
" conceal our thoughts,*' but to convey
them ; and ideas, when obtained, are
more easily treasured up than the exact
words in which those ideas are expressed.
Thus a mode of teaching that is simple
and impressive is calculated * to benefit
the minds of youth. A truth fully under-
stood is of great use in regulating the
conduct, and can be readily applied,
while words are soon forgotten, and, if not
understood, cannot be rightly applied.
A truth made plain ip like a torch ready
lighted and placed in the hand for our
guidance. Plainness is too generally
imagined to be shallowness, and some-
times what appears to be deep is too
often of a thick miry cast. One thing
is certain — he who understands a subject
best can make it the plainest to be
understood by others.

Doctrine is that which prepares men
for discipline ; and surely this is as true
of children as it is of men ; for what is
doctrine but learning — that is, instruct-
ion itf the truths of heaven ? and though
sometimes the word doctrine stands for
the truths which are taught, yet these
truths are intended for the under-
standing. We should not, therefore,

Digitized by VjOOQ LC

672

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

forcibly cram the memory, but sharpen
the edge of truth by explaining it, that
it may pierce the understanding, and so
reach the heart.

Words are the shell of thought ; bat if
they are not understood, then the shell
is not broken.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 659»)

Sunday, 26. — At 10 a.m. I preached
at the Stand. The following synopsis
was reported by Mr. Thos. Bullock,
clerk of the steamer Maid of Iowa : —

President Joseph Smith read the 11th
' chap. 2 Corinthians. " My object is to
let you know that I am right here on the
spot where I intend to stay. I, like
Paul, have been in perils, and oftener
than any one in this generation. As
Paul boasted, I have suffered more than
Paul did. I should be like a fish out of
water, if I were out of persecutions. Per-
haps my brethren think it requires all
this to keep me humble. The Lord has
constituted me so curiously that I glory
in persecution. I am not near so humble
as if I was not persecuted. If oppression
will make a wise man mad, much more a
fooL If they want a beardless boy to
whip all the world, I will get on the top
of a mountain and crow like a rooster : I
shall always beat them. When facts are
proved, truth and innocence will prevail
at last. My enemies are no philosophers :
they think that when they have my spoke
under, they will keep me down ; but for
the fools, I will hold on and fly over them.

God is in the ' still small voice. ' In
all these affidavits, indictments, it is all
of the Devil— all corruption. Come on,
ye prosecutors ! ye false swearers ! All
hell, boil over ! Ye burning mountains,
roll down your lava ! for I will come out
on the top at last. I have more to boast
of than ever any man had. I am the only
man that ever has been able to keep a
whole church together since the days of
Adam. A large majority of the. whole
have stood by me. if either Paul, John,
Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. I boast
that no man ever did such a work as L
The followers of Jesus ran away from
him ; but the Latter-day Saints never ran
away from me yet You know my daily
walk and conversation. I am in the
bosom of a virtuous and good people.
How I do love to hear the wolves howl !
When they can get rid of me, the Devil
will also go. For the last three years I
have a record of all my acts and proceed-
ings, for I have kept several good, faithful,
ana efficient clerks in constant employ :

they have accompanied me everywhere,
and carefully kept my history, and they
have written down what I have done,
where I have been, and what I have said ;
therefore my enemies cannot charge me
with any day, time, or place, but what I
have written testimony to prove my
actions ; and my enemies cannot prove any-
thing against me. They have got wonder-
ful things in the land of Ham. I think
the grand jury have strained at a gnat
and swallowed the camel

A man named Simpson says I made an
affidavit against him, Ac. Mr. Simpson,
says I arrested him. I never arrested
Mr. Simpson in my life. He says I made
an affidavit against him. I never made
an affidavit against him in my life. I will
prove it in court. I will tell you how it
was : Last winter I got ready with my
children to go to the farm to lull hogs.
O. P. Rockwell was going to drive. An
Englishman came in and wanted a private
conversation with me. I told him I did
not want any private conversations. *I
demand one of you !' Such a one I am
bound to obey, anyhow. Said he — *I
want a warrant against the man who
stabbed brother Badham. He said it
was' a man who boarded at Davis's. He
said it was Mr. Simpson — it answered his
description. I said I had no jurisdiction
out of the city. He said — 4 The man must
be arrested, or else he will go away* I
told him — *You must go to Squire Wells.
Johnson, or Foster. 1 Mr. Lytle stepped
up and said — * I am a policeman. * I
jumped into my carriage, and away I
went.

When I came back I met Mr. Jackson.
He said — 'You did wrong in arresting
Mr. Simpson.' I told him I did not do it.
I -went over and sat down, and related
the circumstances. He turned round and
said — ' Mr. Smith, I have nothing against
you ; I am satisfied.' He went and supped
with me. He declared, in the pre-
sence of witnesses, that he had nothing
against me. I then said — * I will go over
to Esquire Johnson, and testify what the
Englishman told me.' I told him not to
make out that I believe he is the man,
but that I believe he is innocent. I don't
want to swear that he is the man. Mr.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

673

Coolidge, Rockwell, Hatfield, and Hawes
were present.

Mr. Johnson made one out in due form ;
and as I sat down in a bustle, the same
as I do when one of the clerks brings a
deed for me to sign, Johnson read it. I
said — ' I can't swear to that affidavit ; I
don't believe it : tear up that paper. '
Mr. Simpson agreed to come before Bad-
ham and make it up. I did not swear
to it.

After a while, Dr. Foster and others
came in. They called me up to testify.
I told it all the same as I do here. Mr.
Simpson rose up, and asked — ' Do you
believe now that! am the man who stabbed
Mr. Badham?' I replied — 'No sir, I
do not now, nor ever did : the magistrate
says I did not swear to it. ' He considered,
and made a public declaration that he
was satisfied with me. -

Aaron Johnson went before the grand
}ury and swore that I did not swear to
it, when Dr. Foster goes and swears that
1 swore to it, and that he was in the
room when he was not in. Chauncey
wanted me to stay and have a conversa-
tion. Dr. Foster asked Aaron Johnson
for the writ and affidavit. He handed
them to Dr. Foster, who read them, and
then threw them into the fire. I said —
' Doctor, you ought not to have burned it ;
it was my paper. ' Dr. Foster goes to the
grand jury and swears he did not bum
only one ; but I say he burnt both. This
is a fair sample of the swearing that is
going on against me.

The last discharge was the 40th ; now
the 41st, 42nd, 43rd ; all through false-
hood. Matters of fact are as profitable
as the Gospel, and which I can prove.
You will then know who are liars, and
who speak the truth. I want to retain
your friendship on holy grounds.

Another indictment has been got up
against me. It appears a holy prophet
has arisen up, and he has testified against
me : the reason is, he is so holy. The
Lord knows I do not care how many
churches are in the world. As many as
believe me, may. If the doctrine that I
preach is true, the tree must be good.
1 have prophesied things that have come
to pass, and can still.

Inasmuch as there is a new church,
this must be the old, and of course we
ought to be set down as orthodox. From
henceforth let all the churches now no
longer persecute orthodoxy. I never
built upon any other man's ground. I
never told the old Catholic that he was a
fallen true prophet. God knows, then, the
charges against me are false.
I had not been married scarcely five

minutes, and made one proclamation of
the Gospel, before it was reported that t
had seven wives. I mean to live and pro-
claim the truth as long as I can.

This new holy prophet (William Law)
has gone to Carthage and swore that I
had told him that I was guilty of adultery.
This spiritual wifcism ! Why, a man dares
not speak or wink, for fear of being
accused of this.

William Law testified before foriy
policemen, and the Assembly Room full
of wituesses, that he testified under oath
that he never had heard or seen or knew
anything immoral or criminal against me.
He testified under oath that he was my
friend, and not the Brutus. There was a
cogitation who was the Brutus. I had not
prophesied against William Law. He
swore under oath that he was satisfied
that he was ready to lay down his life for
me, and now he swears that I have com-
mitted adultery.

I wish the grand jury would tell me
who they are — whether it will be a curse
or blessing to me. I am quite tired of the
fools asking me.

A man asked me whether the com-
mandment was given that a man may
have seven wives ; and now the new pro-
phet has charged me with adultery. I
never had any fuss with these men until
that Female Kelief Society brought out
the paper against adulterers and adul-
teresses.

Dr. Goforth was invited into the Laws'
clique, and Dr. Foster and the clique
were dissatisfied with that document, and
they rush away and leave the Church,
and conspire to take away my life ; and
because I will not countenance such
wickedness, they proclaim that I have
been a true prophet, but that I am now a
fallen prophet.

Jackson has committed murder, robbery,
and perjury ; and I can prove it by half-a-
dozen witnesses. Jackson got up and
said — * By God, he is innocent,' and now
swears that I am guilty. He threatened
my life.

" There is another Law, not the prophet,
who was cashiered for dishonesty and rob-
bing the Government. Wilson Law also
swears that I told him I was guilty of
adultery. Brother Jonathan Dunham
can swear to the contrary. I have been
chained. I h$ve rattled chains before in
a dungeon for- the truth's sake. I am
innocent of all these charges, and you can
bear witness of my innocence, for you
know me yourselves.

When I love the poor, I ask no favours
of the rich. I can so to the cross — I can
lay down my life ; but don't forsake m£

Digitized by CjOOQIC

674

EDITORIAL.

I want the friendship of my brethren.
Let us teach the things of Jesus Christ.
Pride goes before destruction, and a
haughty spirit before a downfall.

Be meek and lowly, upright and pure ;
render good for eviL, If you bring on
yourselves your own destruction, I will
complain. It is not right for a man to
bear down his neck to the oppressor
always. Be humble and patient in all
circumstances of life ; we shall then
triumph more gloriously. What a thing
it is for a man to be accused of committing
adultery, and having seven wives, when I
can only find one.

I am the same man, and as innocent as
I was fourteen years ago ; and I can prove
them all perjurers. I laboured with these
apostates myself until 1 was out of all
manner of patience ; and then I sent my
brother Hyrum, whom they virtually
kicked out of doors.

I then sent Mr. Backenstos, when they
declared that they were my enemies. I
told Mr. Backenstos that he might tell
the Laws, if they had any cause against

me I would go before the Church, and
confess it to the world. He was sum-
moned time and again, but be refused to
come. Dr. Bernhisel and Elder Rigdon
know that I speak the truth. I cite yon
to Captain Dunham, Esquires Johnson
and Wells, brother Hatfield and others,
for the truth of what I have said. I have
said this to let my friends know that I
am right.

As t grow older, my heart grows tenderer
for you. I am at all times willing to give
up everything that is wrong, for I wish
this people to have a virtuous leader. I
have set your minds at liberty by letting
you know the things of Jesus Christ.
When I shrink not from your defence*
will you throw me away for a new man.
who slanders you ? I love you for your
reception of me. Have I asked you for
your money ? No ; you know better. I
appeal to the poor. I say, Cursed be that
man or woman who says that I have
taken of your money unjustly. Brother
Babbitt will address you. I have nothing
in my heart but good feelings." ;

(To l* continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAE.

Saturday, October 19, 1861.

DECREASE OP PREJUDICE-OUR RAPID GROWTH NOT DUB
TO PERSECUTION.

We had the pleasure of spending the 6th instant — the anniversary of our Semi-
Annual Conference — at a Conference in Merthyr Tydvil, South Wales. The
meetings— held morning, afternoon, and evening — were numerously attended
by Saints and strangers, numbering in all, it was estimated, 2,000 or upwards. An
excellent spirit prevailed throughout the Conference, the Saints rejoicing in the
principles set forth, and the strangers listening with candid attention and mani-
fest interest to instructions and doctrines concerning which they had heard so
many reports. We had cause to think that the Spirit, which, without doubt,
characterized the teachings and proceedings in Zion on that day, was being
bestowed upon us in these distant lands. While upon this visit, our attention
was drawn to the contrast (a contrast which we have several times alluded to
in previous articles,) between the feelings which are exhibited by the people
towards us now and those which have been manifested by them in times past. In
this town of Merthyr Tydvil, where we held the recent Conference, there was a
Conference appointed a few years ago, which it was expected would be nume-
rously attended ; and as it was thought that the hall the Saints were in the
habit of occupying for their meetings would not be large enough for that occa-
sion, an effort was made to hire the Temperance Hall — a spacious, commodious
lu'lding, which was unoccupied at the time. But though a tempting sum vas

Digitized by

Google

EDITORIAL. 675

offered for the useof that building, it was of no avail ; the Saints were informed that
they could notjiave it upon any terms, and they were compelled to content them-
selves with the use of the Market-place, for which they had to pay a good round
price. Though there has been no change of owners since that time, there was not
the slightest difficulty in obtaining it for the Conference which has just been
held, and at quite a moderate charge.

Another instance of a somewhat similar character was related to us by the
brethren there, which is worthy of notice, and quite indicative of the favourable
feelings at present entertained in many quarters towards the Saints. A small
Branch of the Church in a country place having been much reduced in numbers
• by last spring's emigration, thought it advisable to give up a place of worship
'which they had rented for a number of years and take a place that would be
better Buited to their diminished income. They accordingly gave notice to their
landlord, who was not a member of the Church, of their intention. Before the
time for which they had given notice, however, had expired, they were informed
that, rather than have them discontinue their meetings there, the owner would let
them have the use of the building without any charge, if they would bear the
•expense of lighting it. Of course, such a kind and unexpected offer was
accepted in the spirit in which it was made. These instances are sufficiently
illustrative of the feelings generally prevailing at present, and they stand out In
striking contrast with those of the past. v h > \

While such sentiments prevail, the preaching of the Gospel is not so difficult as
under other circumstances, and the Priesthood and Saints should be stirred up to
the greatest possible faithfulness and diligence in making use of the opportunities
now afforded. Generally, we are apt to think something is wrong, if everything
moves along swimmingly with the Elders and Saints, and if they have the
popular feeling in their favour, and no opposition to contend with. We
then remember the words of the Lord — " Woe unto you when all men shall
speak well of you." But the feelings manifested towards us of late are not of
such a character as to cause us to have any apprehensions upon this point. True,
they are favourable ; but only comparatively so — favourable when compared with
the active and virulent opposition and hatred with which we had to contend two
' years ago. This lull in the tempest which has assailed us so continuously for
years, and to which we have become so accustomed that a calm seems almost
Unnatural, has been brought about by the Lord for a wise purpose, which purpose
the future will more plainly reveal unto us. Yet it should be borne in mind by the
Saints that it is but a lull in the storm, and it may be of but short duration.
While it lasts, we should make the best possible use of it ; for most assuredly the
storm will rage again, and probably with as great (if not greater) fury as ever.
As watchmen upon the walls of Zion, the Elders should warn the Saints of this,
and be warned themselves, so that, like prudent and skilful mariners, they may
spread their canvas to the favouring breeze while the tempest is allayed and the
weather is fine ; but that they may also be prepared, upon the first reappearance
of squalls, to take in and close reef their sails, and make all snug, to be able to
withstand the violence of the angry elements when they burst upon them.

There is an opinion commonly ventilated by many who have written and
theorised upon the subject of our religion and its spread, that its rapid growth
and development is mainly due to the persecutions which we have sustained.
Sects, it is argued, have always thriven under persecution. People's sympathies
have "been aroused in favour of the persecuted ones, and that natural instinct in

676

EDITORIAL.

the human breast which prompts men to take the part of the weak and the
oppressed has impelled many to espouse and to defend the doctrines, who, if
everything had been peaceful, would never have, been attracted towards them.
Under some circumstances there may be a show of plausibility in this view ; but
when the progress of the Latter-day Saints is attributed to this cause, it is utterly
incorrect. It is true that the persecutions we have endured have given us a world-
wide name, and have been overruled by the Almighty for our good. They have
been productive of invaluable experience to the people who have endured them :
but have they made a single individual love the truth and embrace it who would
not have loved it without them ? Has truth been rendered more attractive, or
found a lodgment more willingly in the hearts of the people, because of the perse-
cutions its adherents have endured P Persecution, so far as the Latter-day
Saints are concerned, has been attended with some good results : a more rapid
spread of our principles, however, is not one of them. Had mankind been willing
to have received the Gospel as it has been revealed by the Lord, without mani-
festing an opposition and hatred thereto, it would long ere this have covered the
earth. But men choose not to have it so, and they have opposed and persecuted.
This action of theirs the Lord has overruled for the benefit of those who have
embraced the Gospel.

Unrelenting persecutions, which might be termed ceaseless, brought about the
death of the Apostles of old, and drove pure truth, or the fulness of the Gospel,
from the earth by killing off all who would entertain it. They had their breath-
ing-spells, such as we are now having, when the iron hand of persecution would
be lightened, and they would enjoy brief seasons of comparative peace. Then
the wonderful vitality of the truth and its lovers would be apparent, and, like a
healthy and thrifty vine, they would throw out their shoots in every direction,
until the fear and jealousy of their enemies would be again awakened, and they
would visit them with every persecution that devilish ingenuity could invent. In
these days the interims of quiet which have been enjoyed by the Saints have been
seasons provided by the Lord in which his people might recruit themselves from
the fatigues and struggles and endurances of past persecutions and ordeals, and be
strengthened for those yet to come. His Spirit, at such times, seems to be plead-
ing with the world, that they who are honest and desirous of knowing and cleav-
ing to the truth may have an opportunity of becoming imbued with it. They
are good days — days in which the truth, accompanied by the testimony, can
be proclaimed with freedom and boldness, and when the honest in heart can
be gathered out ; but which not unfrequently precede days of sorrow and gloom.
Such seasons have been frequently experienced since the organization of
the work of God upon the earth in these days; but the present season is perhaps
more notable than any that the Church has enjoyed, because it follows one of the
most determined and wide-spread efforts to uproot the truth that this generation
has witnessed. It is the more remarkable, also, because so unexpected and so
contrary to the hopes in which every enemy of the truth indulged. The Saints
in this country should avail themselves of it in warning their neighbours and im
preparing themselves to flee out of Babylon ; for the Lord, it would seem, has
expressly stilled the excitement which has been raging, that they might mora
effectually accomplish these labours and be prepared for what is to follow. As
Babylon progresses in the direction of that fate which awaits her, seasons of
peace will become more and more rare ; and after the storm again breaks fortlx^ a
long period may elapse before so favourable a time as the present may be experi-

CORBESPONDENCB. 677

enced by the people scattered in her midst. Indeed, who can say that it will ever
recur again P

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — In a letter dated Manchester,
•Oct. 5th, Elder Dame informs us that the work is moving on well in that
Conference. Several new members had just been baptized ; and among them, a
Methodist preacher.

Elder Owen, in a letter from Leominster, Herefordshire, tells us that he has
lately baptized four new members, and that there are good prospects for the
future in that (Hereford) Conference.

i: Elder Gibson, writing from Cheltenham on the 5th Oct., says the Saints
throughout his District are rejoicing : also that strangers attend the meetings
and pay great attention, and that several have lately been baptized.

CORRESPONDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.
Veile, Jutland, Oct. 2, 1861.

Dear brother George, — Since our last
advices to you of the 1 1th of Sept., we
passed some time with the Saints in
Copenhagen, with whom on the 15th
Sept. we held a most agreeable and
pleasant Conference ; on which occasion
there were convened, of the 1,136 Saints
contained in the Conference, about 900.
The Conference over, we extended our
stay in Copenhagen to the 21st Sept.;
then myself and brothers Rich, Van
Cott, and J. N. Smith started by rail
en route for the island of Fyen, via
Korsoer, at which place we took passage
on the mail steamer to Nyborg on Fyen,
from which place we proceeded by
carriage to Odense, a distance of about
18 miles, over a most beautiful and
highly- cultivated country, abounding
in the elements of wealth and rural
beauty in every direction around us.
The highly-cultivated farm, with its
embellishments of shrubbery and timber,
reminded us of the best cultivated and
-richest portions of the rural districts of
England and Scotland ; and the con-
dition and quality of the stock evinced
the value of this over other portions of
the kingdom.

On our arrival in Odense we were met
and welcomed, and our wants kindly
cared for, by the President of the Con-
ference, Elder Rdvnow. We also met at

this point the District President, E. H.
Brown. ' The Saints were happy to*
meet us, and all seemed to vie with
each other in making us sensible of
this, by ministering in various ways to
our comfort and refreshment during our
stay with them.

On the 21st we held a Conference
with the Saints of Fyen, who numbered
170. We protracted our stay in Odense
until the 26th, when, with the addition
to our party of Elders Brown and
Rovnow, we left our friends in Odense
and rolled away in an open carriage
over a good road to Brastrap. This was
the most pleasing and really interesting
travel we have had since we crossed the
Atlantic. The entire country over
which we were passing presented to us,
as we passed along, a sea-girt picture
of rural loveliness and beauty. When
we arrived at brother Andersen's, we
were kindly welcomed by himself and
family, with whom we tarried until the
next morning. While here, one woman
was baptized ; and on the following
morning, by the kindness of our host,
we were conveyed to tho town of
Middlepart, where we left the island
and crossed to the continent. While at
Middlepart we were provided with din-
ner by a sister and a family who did not
then belong to the Church, but have
since joined. Google , £

The work is moving on well through- M

678

CORRESPONDENCE.

out the island of Fyen. There is a good
harvest in prospect, and good-spirited
labourers are in the field, devoted to
the good work.

After landing on the continent,
another brief ride brought us to the
small town of Yeile, situated at the
head of the bay of the same name. On
our arrival we were made welcome
and comfortable by brother Johnson,
President of the Fredericia Conference.
On Sunday, 29th, we had a pleasant
and interesting Conference in Veile. The
work is on the increase here, as evinced
by the baptism of some since our
arrival, and the spirit of inquiry among
the people.

We leave here to-morrow for Aarhuus,
where we shall have a Conference next
Sunday, and then we expect to return
to Copenhagen, and from thence to
Norway.

With kind regards, in which all the
brethren join, to yourself and all in the
Office, we subscribe ourselves your
brethren in the Gospel,

Amasa M. Lyman,
Charles C. Rich.

ENGLAND.

PRESTON CONFERENCE.

Preston, October 4, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — It affords me pleasure
to inform you that the Saints through-
out the Conference, with very few ex-
ceptions, are enjoying the spirit of their
holy religion.

The major part are working half-
time, but they feel to put their trust in
the Almighty, for he has promised to
" sanctify to them their deepest dis-
tress." Several are doing all in their
power to emigrate during the coming
season, and they realize more than
ever that God will only help those
who strive to help themselves.

The future looks gloomy for the
Saints in these localities, yet they feel
encouraged when tbey reflect on the
remarks made by yourself at our Con-
ference — namely, that you felt no con-
cern for the Saints who keep the com-
mandments of God and live their re-
ligion.

The season for out-door preaching is
nearly over. I believe that good will
result from the little we have done.

The people wc have preached to have
been exceedingly kind and attentive.
Seed has been sown which may yet
spring up and bring forth fruit to the
honour and glory of God.

We baptized eight persons last week,
and have added fifteen to our number
this year, and expect to add a few more
before the end of it. We feel stimu-
lated to diligence, and have every en-
couragement to persevere. The side on.
which we are fighting is sure to conquer,
and the cause in which we are labour-
ing is sure to prevail. The faithful
have learned, through experience, that
continued efforts in well-doing bring
peace and happiness ; while on the other
hand, ease, indulgence, and inactivity
are the source of misery. They be-
numb the mind, suppress the warm
emotions of the heart, and sever man
from the truth.

God in his wisdom has placed things
at a distance ; and requiring us to labour
in order to obtain them, he takes the
best and surest way to secure our hap-
piness and salvation.

Yours respectfully,

Thomas Libz.

WORCESTER CONFERENCE.

Worcester, Oct. 7, 1861.
President Geo. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Yesterday, October 6,
the Saints of the Worcestershire Con-
ference assembled in the Hall of Science,
Car den- street, Worcester, for the pur-
pose of transacting such business as was
necessary for the welfare of the work of
God in this region of country. I am
pleased to say that an excellent spirit
prevailed throughout the day, and the
Saints present were highly favoured and
blessed with the presence and teachings
of Elder Gibson, who was with us and
addressed the Conference during the
day. At our morning's meeting, after
the reports of the various Branches
were given, the authorities of the
Church were presented to the Saints
for their approval, or otherwise, com-
mencing from President Brigham
Young, who was unanimously sustained
as the President and Prophet of the
Church in all the world. To every
motion made a unanimous vote was
given.

It was generally believed that the

8UMMAEY OF NKWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

679

Worcestershire Conference was im*
proving and adding to its numbers, as
several have been baptized since our
last report was sent in.

Elder Gibson joins me in kind love.
That God may continue to bless us and
all who labour for the spread of truth,
is my sincere desire.

Yours very truly,

Wm. Thukgood.

IRELAND.
Belfast, Oct. 5, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Thinking that you
would like to hear from me. I take the
liberty of penning a few lines, hoping
that they will find you in good health.
My health has not been very good since
my arrival in Ireland. This country has
been rather hard on my lungs .* the
chango from a dry atmosphere and
from breathing the pure, high, healthy,
monntuin air, to this damp, cold, smoky,
Irish world has been rather hard on me.
I take cold so very easily, that I have to
take great care of myself ; and I hope, by
so doing, to overcome these difficulties.

I have visited the Saints from Dublin
to Londonderry, and find the great

majority of them rejoicing in the light
of truth — the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I
organized a small Branch of the Church
in Londonderry (brother David Eccles,
President).

The work of the Lord does not appear
to flourish so much in this country as in
many others, yet we are increasing in
numbers slowly. It is a difficult matter
to get people to hear us : they all seem
to be on guard day and night, each one
guarding his party or creed. There is
a powerful religious party-spirit here
between the different denominations,
and many battles have been fought and
much blood shed ; and the spirits of
those who have been slain in these
religious struggles are prompting and
binding their parties. Whenever we
can get the password and get by their
guards, it is all well — our doctrines are
good — they are scriptural truths ; but
when as they find that it is " Mormon "
doctrine, they do not believe a word of
it ; a new watch-word is given, and all
hands are on guard again.

My kind love to the Presidency.
Praying God to bless all your efforts, I
remain your brother in the Gospel,
J. G. Bigler.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

England. — On the 1st inst., fhe last
remaining tax on knowledge (the papcrduty)
cased to exist, which has resulted in the
cheapening of many periodicals having a
large circulation, but also the introduction of
a number of new ones into the publishing
market throughout the country.

Ireland. — At a public meeting held at
Kilmovee, county Mayo, it was stated that
five-sixths of the potato crop in that district
have been destroyed by the blight and
recent floods ; and that if all the corn grown
in Kilmovee was converted into meal, it
would not support the population, which
numbers about 6,000 souls, for two months.

Spain. — The Spanish Government is
actively preparing four screw frigates, two
large steamers, and six other vessels of
lighter draught, to act on the coast of
Mexico in conjunction with the English and
French squadrons. The Spanish squadron
is expected to sail at the end of October.
About 8,000 Spanish troops will disembark
in Mexico, and of this number 3,000 wiMbe
despatched from Cuba.

Sicily. — Orders have been given to sur-
round the band of Cypriani, in the moun-
tains of Nola. Many troops have already
left for that destination.

Hungary. — The dissolution of the county
assemblies in Hungary is going on. One
of them has protested against the conduct
of the Austrian Government, and declared
that it will only yield to force.

Poland. — According to news trom War-
saw, the Polish bishops have addressed a
memorandum to the Governor of Poland,
demanding the re- establishment of the
former rights of the Catholic Church in that
country. The Governor, however, refused
to accept it. The bishops then met, and
were addressed by the Archbishop, who in
his speech said — " Let us always stand by
the people and defend the cause of our
fatherland, and not forget that we are
Poles." On the 5th instant an in-
surrection took place in the town of Czeladz
(the Russian Poland district of Olkusz).
The people tore down the Russian eagle
I from the public buildings, and affixed the

Digitized by LjOOglC

680

OTIOCARY.

Polish eagle in its place. The mayor of
the town was kille

Turkey. — Letters from Ragusa state
that symptoms of insubordination had
appeared among the Turkish troops in the
camp at Balicia, on account of the non-pay-
ment of the arrears due to them by the
Government. Omar Pasha, it is added,
thereupon sent up the arrears.

Montenegro. — Six battalions of Turkish
regular troops, while on their return-march
from Niksicn, were attacked by the insur-
gents and Montenegrins. After a fight
which lasted four hours, the Turks were
compelled to take to flight, with the loss of
80 killed and 20 wounded.

West Africa. — On the 1st of Sept. a very
extensive conflagration broke out in Bonny,
and destroyed half the houses in the town.

Egypt. — A telegram from Alexandria,
dated October 6th, states that the Nile (the
overflow of which is so important to Egypt
as a fertiliser of the adjacent country,) has
already risen above twenty- four feet, and
that on the night of the 4th it rose ore foot.
It has therefore already quite equalled what
may be called the usual maximum height ;
and if it do not soon begin to subside, (as it
generally does in September,) the damage
that will be caused will be very great.
Already, it appears, three leagues of the
railway and telegraph have been destroyed ;
one of the palaces of the Pasha is under
water, and great damage has been done.

China. — A telegram, dated Berlin.
Oct. 9. states that the latest news rereiveil
fiom China, by way of St. Petersburg,
announces the death of the Emperor of
China.

India. — At last dates cholera was making
terrible ravages in the south-western pro-
vinces. The 51st King's Own Light In-
fantry had, up to the 28th of August, lost
one man out of every five, and the wing of
the 94th Regiment one out of every four.
In fifteen days the 51st Regiment lost 161
men, 8 women, and 9 children ; and the
wing of the 94th 107 men, and 3 women.
Lieutenant Colonel A. N. Irby, commander
of the 51st, had died. When his regiment
moved out of the cantonments to escape, if
possible, from the pestilence, he remained
with the sick, caught the contagion, and
died at his post. An order of the Com-
mander-in-chief, directing among other

things that the* bands should play, could not
be carried into effect, as eleven of the
bandsmen of the 51st had died, and ten of
the 94th, and many others were in hospital.
It was reported that Her Majesty's 103rd
regiment, 1st Bombay Fusiliers, were to
leave for home service. It is stated that at
Calcutta the Indian Government were
making preparations to despatch troops to
New Zealand, should they be required.

West Indies. — The news is confirmed
that the authorities of Spain in Cuba have
issued an order to have the same protection
extended to vessels sailing under the Con-
federate flag that is enjoyed by the flags of
other countries.

Mexico. — The Paris evening papers of
Saturday publish news from Mexico, stating
that theJuarez Government was endeavour-
ing to farm the customs. Marquez had
taken Queretaro and was marching on the
capital, where anarchy was at its height.
Several of the principal inhabitants of the
city of Mexico had been arrested on a charge
of having signed addresses demanding a
Spanish protectorate.

America. — It is reported from Washing-
ton that the Confederates have erected a
long line of batteries on the Potomac-
Several Fedeial steamers passing up and
down have been fired into. A considerable
force of Confederates is assembled between
Occoquan and Acquia Creek. It is esti-
mated that the Confederates captured at
Lexington a million and a half of dollars,
seven cannon, and 4,000 rifles. The
Federal troops have stormed and captured
Romney, Western Virginia. The Con-
federates retreated to the mountains. The
Kentucky Legislature has called out 40,000
volunteer^, and has passed a bill declaring
disloyal citizens incapable of inheriting
property. A despatch from Chicago states
that drafting had commenced in Iowa.
The Secretary of War sent a dispatch to the
Government of Iowa, forbidding the drafting
of troops, and expressing his confidence in
the patriotism of the people to supply men
to carry on the war. During the public
celebration of the fl&te of General Castilla,
a band of robbers made a descent on the
province of Pasco, and levied a contribution
of 90,000 piastres on the inhabitants. The
bandits were pursued, and most of the
money recovered.

Silvering of Metals. — Mix one part of chloride of silver with three parts of pearlash,
one-and-a-half part of common salt, and one part of whiting, and well rub the mixture
on the surface of brass or copper (previously well cleansed) by means of a piece of soft
leather, or a cork moistened with water and dipped into the powder. One part of preci-
pitate silver powder, mixed with two parts each of cream of tartar and common salt, may
also be used in the same way. When properly silvered, the metal should be well washed
in hot water slightly alkalized, and then wiped dry.

Digitized by

Google

THINGS WOBTH REMEMBERING. — VARIETIES.

681

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

Stationers. — Books and papers were formerly sold only at stalls ; hence the dealers
were called 44 stationers."

Lawyer. — A lawyer is the general name for a professor of the law ; an attorney is a
lawyer who solicits or carries on a suit at law for another; a solicitor is a lawyer who-
does the business in Chancery which is done by attorneys in other courts.

Cenotaph and Sarcophagus. — A cenotaph is an empty tomb, erected in honour of
some person deceased, and is distinguished from a sarcophagus, in which a coffin is de-
posited. The ancient sarcophagii were of two sorts — one of them for those who had, and
another for those who had not been honoured with funeral rites — in another place, apart
from where the cenotaph was erected.

Mausoleum. — The word rnau soleum, derived from the Latin, is a name which was
originally given to a large and magnificent monument erected by Queen Artemesia, as an
affectionate remembrance of her husband, Mausolus, King of Caria. This extraordinary
work (of which remnants are now to be seen in the British Museum,) was, in the early ages,
when it was erected, considered one of the wonders of the world. It was 63 feet long, 411
feet in compass, and about 35 feet high, surrounded by 36 columns of beautiful proportion
and workmanship.

The Harvest Moon. — During the time that the moon is full, and for a few days before
and after, there is less difference between the time of her rising on any two successive
nights than when she is full in any month of the year. By this means an immediate
supply of light is obtained after sunset, so beneficial for gathering in the fruits of the
seasons. To conceive of this phenomenon, it must be recollected that the moon is always
opposite to the sun when she is full — that she is full in the signs of Pisces and Aries,
these being the signs opposite to Virgo and Libra, which the sun passes through in
September and October, our harvest months. Thus although, whenever the moon enters
the signs Pisces and Aries, (and she does so twelve times in a year,) the same circumstance
takes place with regard to her rising, yet it is not observed on these occasions, just because
she is not full at the time. The reason of there being little difference in the time at which
she rises on several consecutive nights is, that at these periods her orbit is nearly parallel
with the horizon. The harvest moons are as regular in south latitude as with us in north
latitude, only they happen at different periods of the year.

VARIETIES.

Ignorance. — Never be ashamed of confessing your ignorance, for the wisest man upon
earth is ignorant of many things, insomuch that what he knows is mere nothing in com-
parison * ith what he does not know. There cannot be a greater folly in the world than
to suppose that we know everything.

The Colonel's Lady. — A distinguished officer at a certain station, seized by a discreet
fit, resolved to make the barracks occupied by the officers and troops under his command
a pattern for virtue. Accordingly, he issued orders that no women, on any pretence, were
to oe admitted within the gates ; and the more effectually to carry out this moral instruction,
which went further than Plato, with all his solid repose, had ever contemplated, the colonel
had the stern prohibition recorded on the boards of orders, and dinned into the ears of the
sentry at every relief. Not long after, a lady, in all the elegance and style of rank and
fashion, glided up to the gate. " You cannot go in, ma'am," said the sentry, as amiably
as it was possible to communicate a prohibition. 44 Why not P" said the lady, smiling,
convinced that this interruption was a mistake. " The colonel has just promulgated a
stringent order against the admission of women into the barracks. And here it is," added
he, lifting the board from the nail in his box. " I do not doubt your word, my man, but
the order could not be intended to exclude the officer's lady?" This was said with such
pretty submission, it was a wonder the sentry did not chance even a court-martial for the
lady's sake, apd permit her to enter. 44 It makes no exception ma'am ; and you cannot go
in !" 44 But," said she, winningly, with a due appreciation of the propriety of so becoming
an order, 44 you will let me pass, I am sure, when I tell you that J am the Colonel's lady /"
44 My duty is plain," returned the sentry ; 44 and I dare not let you in, if even you were the
Colonel's wife !"

Digitized by

682

POETRY. ADDRESSES.

Sleep-walking. — A. case is related of an English clergyman who used to get up in the
night, light his candle, write sermons, correct them with interlineations, and retire to bed
again, being all the time asleep. The Archbishop of Bordeaux mentions a similar case
of a student who got up to compose a sermon while asleep, wrote it correctly, read it over
from one end to the olier, or at least appeared to read it, made corrections on it, scratched -
out lines and substituted others, put in its place a word which hud been omitted, com-
posed music, wrote it accurately down, and performed other things equally surprising. -
Ihr. Gall notices a miller, who was in the habit of getting up every night to attend to his
usual avocations at the mill, and then returning to bed : on awakening in the morning-, he
recollected nothing of what passed during the night. Martinet speaks of a saddler who
was accustomed to rise in his sleep and work at his trade ; and Dr. Prichard, of a farmer
who got out of bed, dressed himself, saddled his horse, and rode to the market, being all .
the while asleep.' Dr. Blacklock, on one occasion, rose from bed, to which he had retired ,
at an early hour, came into the room where his family were assembled, conversed with
them, and afterwards entertained them with a pleasant song, without any of them sus-
pecting he was asleep, and without his retaining, after he awoke, the least recollection of
what he had done. It Is a singular, yet well -authenticated fact, that in the disastrous
retreat of Sir John Moore, many of Jhe soldiers fell asleep, yet continued to march along
with their comrades.

POETRY.

LINES.

Why should mankind the truth despise?
Why from all good in madness riee ?
But why should such as once were wise
No more their own true interest see?
Behold yod pilgrims move along
Across IheMeScrt's burning plain,
Bach tfllaff with hope and purpose strong
Xo-reaoi} hi* mnch-lored home again.
They dare tfie simoon's stifling breath,
The sandy ocean's rolling waves,
Where thirst and frvcr, leagued with death,
Lay myriads in their desert grarcs ;
And wheVe the false mirage expands
To lure them to an awful fate,
Where snares unknown to other lands
On all their eager movements wait
But see acbkftrunhrave and wise
Leads on that danger-daring band :
He marks the bluo death-cloud arise,
And bids the perilled heroes stand.
He cries. Let each one prostrate lie,
Who hopes his fatherland to see ;
So shall the blast pass harmless by,
And all may reach their destiny.

Sheffield.

He knows th' enchanting mirage well.
And warns them of the deadly cheat, —
Points out each spot where others fell,
And shows where hordes of robbers

Leads on to soul -refreshing springs

Where spots of pasture may be found,

And through death's sterile region brings

All who in humble faith abound.

Suflhas his timely cautions spurn

Must perish in the burning sand ;

Though much their hearts for home may yearn.

Tfceytl view no more their native land.

Thus disobedience to the voice

Of God's inspired vicegerents here

Deceives men's sicht, misleads their choke,

And nils them with apostate fear.

The Priesthood, with experience

Of all etern ties gone by,

Has led. through meek obedience,

The grateful hosts in worlds on high.

Then let the lost ones of the past

A warning through life's journey be,

That we may reach our home at last,

And live and reign eternally.

W. Clkgg.

A^ssia-jmph B^J 91f park stnety Luton>

CONTENTS.

Regeneration of the World— Failure of Attempts

to Accomplish it 667

Understanding and Memory 670

History of Joseph Smith 672

Editorial. — Decrease of Prejudice — Our Rapid

Growth uot Due to Persecution 674

Correspondence. — Scandinavian Mission: Letter

from Presidents Lyman and Rich.— England :
Letters from Elders Liez and Thurgood.— Ire-
land : Letter from Klder Bigier 677

Summary of News and Passing Events 678

Things Worth Remembering ggi

Varieties ggi

Poetry.— Lines est

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 4t, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOR SALE AT THB LATTfcR-DAY SAINTS' UUUK DiiPJT. .10 FLORENCE STREET, CROSi STRKE*
ISLINGTON; AND ALL UOUKSELEKrf.

Digitized by

Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

U JL noUtshatteotneeventothe ends of the earth; for ike Lord katkacontroverty with the nations: he «ciB
plead with aUjUtk ; he uriUfive them that are wicked to the sword, taith the Lord." — Jirimiab.

J*o. 43, Vol XXIII. Saturday, October 36, 1861. Price One Penny.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD IN NOTTINGHAM, SEPTEMBER 1, 1861.

Present — Of the Quorum of the
Twelve, George Q, Gannon; District
President, James S. Brown ; Conference
Presidents, Aaron Nelson of Derbyshire,
Abraham Orme of Leicestershire, and
Samuel L. Adams of Warwickshire;
Travelling Elders, John D. Chase and
Joseph C. Rich of Nottingham, John
Lindsay of Lincolnshire, James Payne
of Leicestershire, and Henry Duce of
Derbyshire.

. Elder James S. Brown said—" With
pleasure I rise to represent the Notting-
ham Conference. I can say the Spirit
of the Lord is on the. increase among
the Saints. The meltings are better
attended than for £ome time past.
There seems to be a much better feeling
among the people as a whole, and many
«eem interested in the investigation of
;the principles of the Gospel. Within
the last six months we have baptized
•eJb>out eighty. In representing this
jk {Conference we do not represent the
Church, but only a small portion of it.
We do not look upon this place as
hpme; consequently, our numbers are
xsontinually being diminished through
our annual emigration to Zion. Hence,
we have not the large and commodious
halla that we otherwise might have.
\ Elder Brown feeling too unwell to con-

tinue speaking, President Cannon then
rose and read the Financial Report.

Elder Joseph C. Rich reported the
condition of the different Branches
among which he laboured, and said he
believed there was an increase of the good
Spirit among the Saints generally, with
the exception of a few who seem dis-
posed to judge principally by the acts
of men and women. Their cases, how-
ever, were very few. In out-door
preaching he felt well, and a consider-
able degree of interest had been mani-
fested bjr the people in listening to the
testimonies of the Elders.

Elder John D. Chase made a few re-
marks confirmatory of what brother
Rich had stated. He said he had
visited as many of the Saints as he
conveniently could, and found them,
on the whdfe, in a' good condition.

President Cannon rose and said — " I
rejoice in having the opportunity of
meeting with you, for I have heard
much good concerning the Saints in
Nottingham. I feel that there is a good
spirit and influence present with us,
and I trust it will continue. Whether
we are Saints or not, I hope that our
meeting together will prove beneficial
to alL It is the privilege ^of every Lat-
ter-day Saint to enjoy the Spirit of the

Digitized by Google

684

MINUTES OP A CONFERENCE.

Lord ; and every individual who is living
up to the truth which has been revealed
to him can also enjoy a portion of it' to
enlighten his mind this morning, if he
but seek for it in sincerity. A great
many people think, because we say we
preach the fulness of the Gospel, and
that God has revealed it anew, that we
exclude all other people from a partici-
pation in any portion of the Spirit or
its blessings, and therefore conclude we
are very uncharitable. Such a conclu-
sion arises from ignorance of the prin-
ciples we believe in. We willingly
acknowledge that well-meaning, sincere
persons have enjoyed a degree of hap-
piness and peace which flowed from the
presence of a portion of the Spirit of the
Lord, while connected with other reli-
gious systems. Indeed, pagans and
idolators who have sincerely lived up to
the light which had been communicated
unto them have been thus favoured.
There is a blessing always attending
sincerity, though the fact of a person's
being sincere is no evidence that his
belief is correct. Many of the Latter-
day Saints were as honest and sincere
in their worship previous to becoming
acquainted with the principles which
they now believe in and practise
as they are now-, but they did not
have the fulness of the Gospel, and
did not enjoy the Holy Spirit, with its
gifts and blessings, as they do now;
neither can any individual or people
who have not rendered obedience to the
Gospel enjoy that Spirit in its fulness
and power. Yet the Lord is merciful
in his dealings with the children of men,
and will only judge them by the Gos-
pel after they have hoard it proclaimed
through his servants. It will prove
salvation or condemnation to them as
they receive or reject it. Jesus said —
44 This is the condemnation, that light is
come into the world, and men loved
darkness rather than light." Condem-
nation, as we learn by this saving of
the Lord's, consists in choosing the
darkness when the . light is proffered.
If truth and light have been presented
to you, and you have rejected them,
then you are condemned by your
Father in heaven. We shall be judged
and rewarded by our works, whether
they be good or evil. This, Latter-day
Saints, is the principle by which you
will be judged; and as you have re-

ceived the light, you will be held amena-
ble by our Father for the same ; and
the punishment you will receive wDl be
that brought upon yourselves, by your
not living up to that light which has
been revealed unto you. It is unjust
to the Almighty to think that whole
nations who have never heard his Gos-
pel, and to whom his laws have never
been proclaimed, will be sent by him
to welter in hell throughout the unnum-
bered ages of eternity, in torments and
miseries. It is when nations reject the
Gospel that they place themselves in a
position to suffer. They then are cul-
pable ; and, unless they repent, they will
be cast down, and bring down upon
their heads also in this life his indig-
nation, as did the Jewish nation in
ancient times, and the United States at
the present.

The Gospel of Jesus is one to which
certain conditions are attached, and all
who will honestly investigate it and
comply with these conditions can know
for themselves that it is his Gospel.
"But," says one, "how are we to know?"
It is a matter capable of demonstration,
and can be satisfactorily proven. God
has made certain promises, and said, if
we comply with his requirements, that
ho will bestow his blessings and reveal
the truth by his Spirit. Every indi-
vidual can take a course that will place
him in possession of truth. Though
men may not believe in direct revela-
tion, there are but few who do not
beliove in the overruling providence of
the Almighty, and who do not cite
instances from their own experience
where it has apparently been exercised
in their behalf. There is an inherent
feeling in mankind which causes them
to look up to, and seek for aid from, a
Power superior to themselves. Where
they believe in Deity, he is viewed as
the great Creator, and they believe ihat
he can control all things according to
his own good pleasmre, however much
they may be opposed to the principle of
direct revelation. Now, if there are
any who are desirous to know which,
out of all the various sects who profess
to be followers of Christ, is accepted of
him, let them pray to the Lord — the
Being whom their parents and teachers
taught them to look up to as the
Author of all their blessings, and ask
Him by his overruling providence to

Digitized by Google

MINUTES OP A

CONFEBENCE.

of the children of Israel. On Mount
Sinai he talked with him face to face
an one man talks to another. He gave
him commandments written by his own
linger on tables of stone. Moses re-
turned to the camp with them, and
found the children of Israel worshipping
an idol. His anger being kindled, he
broke the tables. He returned to the
mount a^ain, and still the Lord con-
versed with him and wrote his com-
mandments again on tables of stone.
Massing down the channel of time
till we arrive at the period when Jesus
came to be baptized of John, we find
the Lord speaking from the heavens,
Baying, 'This is my beloved son, in
whom I am well pleased.' After all
these circumstances, shall we say that
God will forget his people P No : his
ways are unchangeable, well, one may
ask, ' Has God revealed himself to the
Latter-Day Saints ?' Yes. 1 But how
are we to know it ?• President Cannon
explained that to you this morning.

• Are we to prove from the Scriptures
that God has spoken now P' Did Jesus
Jrove from the Bible that he received
revelations in his dayP No; but he
Bays, 1 My doctrine is not mine, but His
that sent me. If any man will do his will,
he shall know of the doctrine, whether
it be of God, or whether I speak of my-
self.' This, then, was the way this in-
formation was gained in those days.
2 can bear testimony that God has re-
vealed his will unto Joseph Smith in
this day. Although wicked men may
have disseminated many untrue state-
ments about him, still it affects not the
truth. Jesus and the Apostles were
assailed similarly, and that, too, by re-
ligious pretenders and those who pro-
fess to be very pious in their de-
meanour. Joseph Smith took the
admonition of James where he says,

• He that lacketh wisdom, let him ask
Of God, who giveth unto all men libe-
rally and upbraideth not, and it shall
be given him.' Referring to the cir-
cumstances of Joseph's first revelation,
he compared the same with Moses*
vision from the burning bush, and said
that God had committed the fulness of
the Gospel to Joseph, showing that it
iras the same as was revealed anciently,
and that through obedience to it all can
he saved from their sins."

President Gannon then rose * and

said—-'* In standing before you to
speak upon the principles of the Gospel t
it is difficult for me to know which of
the many may be most applicable
to the congregation. My desite is to do
you good, and preach the Gospel in
plainness. It may appear to some as
strange for an Elder to be sent from the
wilds of America to this enlightened
nation — a nation which stands in the
vanguard of all others in its pretensions
to Christianity — a nation that has been
occupied for years in sending forth its
missionaries and disseminating copies of
the Bible among heathen and other
nations, for the avowed purpose of en-
lightening them upon the principles of
true religion ; — I say again, looking at
it in this light, it may appear strange
that we should come to teach them the
truth. I well remember hearing the
Elders speak about the prejudices that
existed among the people in relation to
this matter when the Elders first came
to this country, and the opinions that
were then expressed in reference to the
condition of affairs in Nauvoo. Many
would say, If we could only see men
that had been there from our own
country, and experienced these things
for themselves, tnen we might believe
their testimony. This they have had
the opportunity to hear and see ; but
has it convinced them of the truth of
our religion, or of our testimonies P No.
They have changed their opinions in this
matter just as soon as they have had
the opportunity to experience what they
at first desired. It does not matter, in
my opinion, who may come to preach
the truth, if the people are not pre-
pared to receive it. If an angel from
heaven would come with the Gospel, or
the most gifted man that ever existed,
it would not matter, so long as the
people are opposed to the laws of
righteousness. The people never will
receive the Gospel, so long as they con-
tinue to harden their hearts in sin ; for
the spirit that actuates them is antago-
nistic to that of truth.

I rejoice to know that the Lord has
sent the Gospel to be preached to all,
both rich and poor. The poor have al-
ways been the first to receive the Gos-
pel. Why is it that the rich among men
do not manifest a desire to receive the
truth P Because their popularity and
Worldly treasures are at stake; and

Digitized by

688 MINUTES OF A

they, being destitute of sufficient love
for the truth to make the sacrifices
which they imagine to be involved, fail
to embrace it. But the poor, not having
these sacrifices to make, and perhaps
having a greater desire for the truth,
receive it with gladness of heart.
When a man appreciates and loves the
truth more than everything else on
earth, he will dispose of everything in
his possession to obtain it. What was
it that enabled the Apostles of Jesus to
endure the many trying scenes that
they were called to pass through — even
to encounter death in its most horrid
forms P This was a mystery to the
Jews and others, and filled them with
astonishment, equal to that manifested
by the present generation in viewing
the violent persecutions through which
the Latter-day Saints have gone, and
the many sacrifices they as a people have
sustained. It was because they could
see by the eye of faith, and were able
to penetrate the dark future, and rea-
lize the blessings that were in store for
them, if faithful, — blessings of both time
and eternity. The reason the people of
the world cannot understand these
things is because they are blind to the
things of God. If they were in posses-
sion of the same Spirit as the Latter-
day Saints, they could comprehend
their motives, and the causes that in-
spire them with courage and fortitude
to endure these things ; and this would
solve what they term "the Mormon prob-
lem." We talk about the great millennial
reign ; and there is much speculation
in the world as to how this desirable time
is to be ushered in. It is very evident
that the restoration of the Gospel has
been considered necessary by the Lord
to bring it pass.

Why was it no temptation to Jesus
when he was offered all things by the
Devil ? Because he well knew that they
were not Satan's to give, and that by re-
jecting his offers at the time, and being
faithful afterwards, they would be his
own by right. Such an offer was there -
fore no temptation to him. If the
Latter-day Saints were always in
possession of the same Spirit that Jesus
possessed, and had the same appreciation
for true principle, nothing would tempt
them to do wrong, because there is
nothing that Satan can offer them as a
temptation, bnt what they can legiti-

CONPEBENCB.

mately obtain and enjoy forever, by
being faithful to the Lord and the truth*
When the Saints understand and fully
act up to this principle, then the Devil
will be bound, and the reign of righ-
teousness commence. It is for this
purpose that the Gospel is revealed in
this dispensation. This Gospel will
make us rich. It will raise and exalt us
in the scale of intelligence, and every
blessing necessary for man's happiness
can be obtained through strict obedience
to its principles. But you must expect
to be tried in many things. But what
may be trials now will not continue to
be trials hereafter. If you continue to
associate with the principles of truth,
the Lord will try you and prove yon^.
to test whether there is anything which
you love more than the Gospel. This
is the difference between the Grospel
and the systems of men. God's Spirit
being given to his Saints in all ages,
they could penetrate the future, and
prepare themselves for every duty or
tribulation that awaited them.

I exhort you all, both old and young;
to live the principles of truth, ana over-
come your passions. Be faithful, and
may God abundantly bless yqu, in time
and in eternity, is my prayer, in the
name of Jesus. Amen."

Elder James S. Brown then rose and
said — " I wish to make a few remarks.
I cannot go away without bearing my
testimony to the truth of the Gospel
that has been preached here to-day.
You have heard the Gospel preached by
the servants of God, and it is the
same that was taught by the servants
of God in ancient times, and it is true.
The Gospel has not been changed since
the world began. Was there ever sv
stronger testimony borne to the truth,
in ancient times than there has been in.
these days P Joseph Smith suffered and
died for the same principles that Christ
and his Apostles did. Many others
have gone to the long silent grave pre-
maturely because of bearing the same
testimony. All these could have saved
themselves from their sufferings, if they
had only renounced their profession;
but they knew it was true, and there-
fore continued stedfast to the end.**
He then referred to the last chapter of
Malachi, and showed that many of
the predictions had not yet been ful-
filled.

Digitized by

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE.

685

shape circumstances bo that they may
may be brought in contact with the
troth and the people with whose belief
and worship he is well pleased. This
all who believe in God must admit he
has the power to do, without even over-
stepping those limits which the false
Christians of the present day have
assigned as the bounds of his power.
And having thus prayed in faith, and
having the Bible in their hands, which
contains well-defined principles and
describes the Lord's mode of dealing
-with the children of men in the days
in which it was written, they can ven-
ture forth without fear of being de-
ceived.

Now, to illustrate my views and to
convey my ideas to your minds more
clearly than probably I could other-
wise, I will place myself in the position
of such a person in quest of truth. I
have asked the Lord to overrule
circumstances in such a manner that I
may be brought in contact with his
pure Gospel ; and having thus prayed, I
am on the alert to notice every system
presented to me, hoping that some one
of them will be that which I am in
search of. Among ministers whom I
meet is an Klder of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints, who comes
along and testifies to me that God has
spoken from the heavens and has re-
vealed again to man the Gospel in its
fulness and purity, with power to ad-
minister in the ordinances of the same
as in ancient days. This is a strange
declaration to me, and causes an inquiry
to arise in my mind if such a thing can
be possible. I immediately turn to the
history of God's dealings with the chil-
dren of men which is left unto us for a
guide — to the Bible — to consult it
respecting this strange testimony which
I have just heard. Commencing in the
beginning, I find that the Lord spake
with Adam and his children, and I still
continue reading till I come to Noah.
Here I find the Lord speaking to Noah
and pointing out a way of salvation to
him and to all others who would listen
to and believe what he said ; but the
people, being opposed to the principle of
revelation, rejected his message and
were all destroyed, excepting his imme-
diate family, seven in number, who, with
himself, believed that God could and
had revealed his will. Continuing my

researches down to Abraham, Isaac, and
Jacob, and the various Prophets, until
the time of Malachi, I find in the history
of these generations that it has been
customary for God to speak to man and
reveal his will nuto him and also, I
find this peculiarity ever recorded
respecting mankind — that they have
always manifested a natural antipathy
to the principle of receiving revelations
from God, and to the men who testified
that they had received such revelations.

Now, what am I to do with this prin-
ciple P If I believe the Bible, I must
believe that it has ever been his practice
to speak to man, and that ever}' man
whom he recognized as his servant en-
joyed revelation from him. I cannot
for a moment entertain the idea that
his power is or can be curtailed ; and I
mutt therefore conclude that, having so
frequently spoken to man and revealed
himself to him from the heavens,
he has still the power to speak as in
past times. But I must now ascertain,
if possible, whether, having spoken to
man so frequently and for so long a
period, he has not intimated unto man
nis intention of discontinuing this prac-
tice ; in other words, ascertain whether
he will speak in this day or not. Per-
haps a reference to the history and
teachings of Jesus will enlighten us
upon tnis point. Even Jesus, the
Son of God, the pure immaculate being
who held such power to heal the sick,
raise the dead, hold converse with the
heavens, &c, had all the difficulties to
contend with that the Prophets had
from the beginning, in combating with
men who were opposed to the principle
of revelation. In reading the history
of his proceedings among his apostles
and contemporaries, we find that he
advocated this doctrine ; and for this
cause he was persecuted and killed.
His Apostles also taught it after him,
and were likewise persecuted ; and they
have left on record that God was " with-
out variableness or shadow of turning,"
and was " the same yesterday, to-day,
and forever." With the most careful
search, I find not a single line or sen-
tence that warrants me in rejecting the
principle of revelation from God to
man ; but, on the contrary, I learn that
it is indispensably necessary. On one
occasion Jesus asked his disciples whom
men ssidhe, the Son^ofjna^^, They

686

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE.

answered him that some said that he
was John the Baptist ; some, Elias ; and
others, Jeremias, or one of the Prophets.
" But," continues Jesus, " whom say ye
that I am P" Peter answered, " Thou
art the Christ, the Son of the living
God." Jesus then informed him thai
he was blessed, "for flesh and blood
hath not revealed this unto thee, but
my Father which is in heaven ;" " and,"
he added, " upon this rock will I build
my Church, and the gates of hell shall
not prevail against it." There are
many different ideas afloat as to what
this rock was whioh Jesus spoke of,
some thinking it to be Peter, others
thinking that Jesus meant himself.
But Jesus was speaking about the prin-
ciple of direct revelation from God to
man, and it is plain that he referred to
that. That was ever the rock upon
which the Church was founded, and
against a church thus founded the gates
of bell never has and never can prevail.
Had the people never forsaken this rock,
they would always have enjoyed the
Spirit of revelation.

After having thus taught me that
God has spoken anew to man, and I
have satisfied myself that it is scrip-
tural and in accordance with Goa.s
mode of dealing, this Elder continues to
teach me different principles. He
teaches me that faith in the Lord Jesus,
repentance of sin, baptism for the
remission of sins, and raying on of
hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost,
are all necessary for me to obey. These
I find to agree with the teachings of the
Bible. But how am I to know whether
he has the power to baptize me, or to lay
on hands for the gift promised P If I
go forth and obey the commandments
given, and then receive the gifts pro-
mised—gifts which no man can bestow,
— if the Bible appears unto mo after-
wards as a new book, a book with a
new lustre and beauty beaming from its
precious pages, — if my understanding is
enlightened, and I receive a knowledge of
what I before was ignorant of, I snail
then be capable cf testifying whether I
have entered the Church or Christ or
not, and whether this Elder is a servant
of God, with authority to baptize and
lay on hands, or not. This is the plan
upon which the truth can be found and
tested, and explains the principle by
which every one can go forth and learn

for himself respecting the doctrines of
Christ. These blessings are for you;
and I bear testimony to you that God did
speak to Joseph Smith in this age, and
chose him to be his Prophet, and has
also given power to other men through
him to preach the Gospel and to carry
it unto all nations. I exhort you all,
who have not obeyed this message, to
repent and be baptized, and fully embrace
the Gospel of Christ which is now pre*
sented to you.

I will now lay before you the autho-
rities of the Church, that you may have
the privilege of voting either for or
against, as you may feel."

President Cannon then presented the
authorities in the usual order, who
were unanimously sustained by the
meeting.

Half-past 2 p. m.

Meating opened with singing and
prayer.

Elder Samuel L. Adams, quoting the
passage of Scripture — " I am God ; I
change not," &c, said that when we
look on the history of the Church
from the beginning down to the time
that God revealed his mind and will to
Joseph, we find that his ways have bean,
invariably the same, without the least
shadow of change. He referred to the
position held by Adam when in the
Garden of Eden, his transgression, the
appearance of the Lord unto him, the
penalty upon him, his posterity, and the
earth itself, remarking that, "though
Adam was driven forth from the
garden and presence of God, still we
find the Lord did not leave him without
hope, but made kn >wn unto him the
plan of salvation. And was this the
last time that God spoke to man P No.
When Cain slew his brother, we bear
of the Lord speaking to him, saying
* Where is thy brother P' — also inform-
ing him that his brother's blood was
then calling for vengeance from the earth.
I read of the Lord's conversing with
Enoch, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
We also read that the Lord went down,
to see whether the rumours he had
heard concerning the cities of the
plain were correct. Coming to Moses*
we again find the Lord conversing with
him, derising plans for the deliveraaoe-

Digitized by VjOOglC

HISTOBY OF J08BPH SMITH.

689

In the evening, President Cannon
delivered an address, showing why the
Saints gather, referring to the attempts
which had been made in past dispensa-
tions to establish the kingdom of God,
and showing that the Prophets had
looked forward to the last days, and
foretold that God would establish it,
never more to be thrown down ; also
adducing evidence that America is the

land chosen of God for that purpose, and
pointed out the signal manifestations
of the Almighty in overruling cir-
cumstances in favour of that king-
dom.

There were large congregations
throughout the day, composed of Saints
and strangers, who listened with great
interest and attention.

Joseph C. Rich, Reporter.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 074.)

I rode out in the afternoon. On my
return, my lawyers, Col. Richardson and
Almon W. Babbitt, called upon me on
the subject of the writs which were out
against me.

A man called and informed me that
John Eagle and several others intended
to kidnap Jeremiah Smith during the
night. I therefore stationed an extra
police in order to protect him.

President B. Young arrived at Cin-
cinnati at 5 p.m.

Monday, 27. — About 8 a.m., I
started on horseback with a few friends,
went by the Temple, and pursued my
course towards Carthage, thinking it
best for me to meet my enemies betore
the Circuit Court, and have the indict-
ments against me investigated.

After I had passed my farm on the
prairie, most of the following brethren
joined my company, and the remainder
soon after my arrival in Carthage — viz.,
Aaron Johnson, Dr. J. M. Bernhisel,
Joseph W. Coolidge, John Hatfield, 0.
P. Rockwell, Lorenzo Rockwell, William
"Walker, Harrison Sagers, Hyrum Smith,
John P. Greene, John Y. Greene, Judge
William Richards, Shadrach Roundy,
Theodore Turley, Jedediah M. Grant,
John Lytle, Joseph B. Nobles, Edward
Bonney, Lucien Woodworth, Cornelius
P. Lott, Jonathan Dunham, and other
friends.

We arrived at Hamilton's hotel about
noon. Charles A. Foster overtook us
three or four miles from the city, and
accompanied us to Carthage. I had
considerable conversation with him, and
he appeared to be more mild than pre-
viously, and as though he was almost
persuaded that he had been influenced
to some extent by false reports.

Joseph H. Jackson, Francis M. Hig-
bee, and Chauncey L. Higbee were in
Hamilton's hotel when we arrived.
Soon after our arrival there, Chatfles A.
Foster took me into a private room and
told me in a friendly manner that there
was a conspiracy against my life.
Robert D. Foster told some of the breth-
ren (with tears in his eyes) that there
was evil determined against me; and
that there were some persons who
were determined I should not go out of
Carthage alive, &c. Jackson was seen
to reload his pistols, and was heard to
swear he would have satisfaction of me
and Hyrum.

J had a short interview with Judge
Thomas, who treated me with the
utmost courtesy. He is a great man
and a gentleman. After dinner (at the
second or third table) we retired to our
room, when Jackson, who had been to
the Court House, came towards the
hotel. Some person told him Hyrum
had arrived, when he immediately
turned towards the Court House
again.

My lawyers, Messrs. Richardson,
Babbitt, and Skinner, used all reason-
able exertions to bring forward my trial
on the charge of perjury ; but the prose-
cuting party were not ready, — one
Withers, a material witness (as they
asserted in court,) being absent.

My attorneys frequently called on me
to report the state of things in court,
and I was ready to go in at a moment's
warning, being anxious for my trial ;
but the case was deferred till next term.
I was left to give bail to the sheriff at
his option. He told me I might go
home, where he would call and take
bail at his own convenience.

Digitized by

600.

mSTO&Y OF JOSEPH SMITE.

We immediately called for our horses ;
and while they were being harnessed,
Chauncey L. Higbee came to me ^ and
wanted me to stay as a witness in a
certain case in which he was employed
as attorney. He urged me considerably,
but I told him I did not recollect the
occurrence he referred to particularly
enough to testify in the case, and got
him to excuse me.

At half-past four p.m., we started on
our return ; but when we had got as far
as brother George D. Grant's, a heavy
shower of rain commenced, and I went
into the house, while most of the bre-
thren went into the barn until the
shower abated. After the storm had
subsided, we went forward, and I,
Hyrum, and some others arrived at
home about 9 p.m., and found Emma
sick. My carriage, with Joseph B.
Nobles, arrived a little after. It was
upset on the Temple Hill, but no one
hurt. I rode on horseback all the way
op " Joe Duncan."

As we left the tavern in Carthage,
and passed the Court House, there were
many people about in small groups.
Jackson stood on the green with one or
two men some distance off.

While at Hamilton's, C. L. Higbee
offered some insulting language con-
cerning me to O. P. Rockwell, who
resented it nobly as a friend ought to do.
Hamilton, seeing it, turned Bockwell out
of doors.

It was afterwards reported to me by
James Flack that Robert D. Foster,
Charles A. Foster, Wm. H. Rollinson,
and the Higbees were on the hill
when I passed in the morning. They
immediately gathered their pistols,
mounted their horses, and were in
Carthage before me, excepting Charles
A. Foster.

Also Mr Powers was talking with Mr.
Davies, tailor, about my going to
Carthage, and said they would attempt
to kill Joseph Smith. Mr. Davies replied,

no, I think not." Mr. Powers re-
joined. 44 They will, by God ; and you
know it, by God."

Samuel Smith, of Montebello, heard
at five this morning, that I had been taken
prisoner to Carthage by a mob. He
immediately gathered a company of
twenty-five men for the purpose of
assisting me, and arrived at Carthage
about the time I did.

Tuesday 28. At home all day, Rain
in the afternoon. The " Maid of Iowa "
started for the Iowa river at 1 1 a.m.

I received a letter from Mr. J.
Bronder, dated Philadelphia, May 20th.
expressing his strong desires that I
should allow my name to stand as can-
didate for the Presidency of the United
States, urging many reasons for his
request. '

Wednesday, 29. At home. Rain in
the morning.

Luther W. Hickock, of Burlington,
Iowa, came in and arrested Jeremiah
Smith on a warrant issued by Nathaniel
Pope, Judge of the U. S. Circuit Court.
During our conversation in the after-
noon, we learned to our mutual joy
that Jeremiah Smith and I were of one
origin.

Received the following letter : —

"Baltimore, May 9th, 1844.
Dear brother Joseph, — From the time
of my departure to that of my arrival
here on Saturday last, I was blessed with
prosperity. The feelings manifested by
the passengers on the boat to Si Louis
were quite favourable.

At St. Louis I embarked on board the
steamer Valley Forge, with about 125
cabin passengers. I gradually introduced
myself to those whose faces gave indica-
tions of honest hearts and intelligent
minds.

On Sunday I was invited to give, in a
public discourse, the points of difference
between the faith of the Latter-day Saints
and other professors of the Christian reli-
gion. There was a Methodist preacher
on board, with whom arrangements were
made to follow me and blow Mormonism
to the four winds. Well, I led off in a
discourse of an hour and a half. After
dinner the Methodists tried to rally their
preacher ; but he could not be induced to
undertake the fulfilment of his engage-
ments.

I spent the time in conversing with
groups of inquirers, and giving further
information to those who sought it After
tea, the Methodist priest was, by much
persuasion, induced to preach ; but, to
the astonishment of all, he never once
mentioned ' Mo^monisln. ,

By-the-bye, we had a beautiful speci-
men of Missouri treatment to the Saints
on board. While I was speaking, I
referred to the many false statements
which found their way to the public
through the papers. A case in point was
thato? Joseph Smith having just discarded
his wife.

Digitized by

After I bad finished speaking, and was
standing on the guard of the boat, a Mis-
sourian stepped up to me, asking me if 1
wished to be understood that all who said
Jo Smith had discarded his wife were
Uari. On my answering him in the
affirmative, he drew his bowie-knife on
me ; but some passengers, who had heard
him threaten my life, were watching, and
caught him as he was in the act of striking,
and I in the act of pitching him overboard ;
but they saved him, and I am glad of it
The whole affair turned much to my
advantage. Tt was an occular demonstra-
tion to the crowd of Missourians' feeling
towards the Church of Christ.

By this time the way was pretty well
paved for introducing national matters ;
and from this on to our arrival at Wheel-
ing, the time was principally occupied on
that subject — reading your views on poli-
tical economy, &c.

On arriving at Wheeling, a stranger
might have imagined me to be a man of
some consequence, for it was — ' Will you
take a seat in our coach V * Go with us

EDITORIAL. 691

in this stage. ' ' Hold on, and take a seat
with us,' says the third. In fact, the
Mormon was quite a lion among the
passengers.

But passing the minutiae, I arrived in
this city two days after the great Whig
Convention. AH is joy and enthusiasm
among the Whigs, while doubt and con-
sternation is manifested among the Demo-
crats. This Convention has been got up
at an immense expense ; hundreds of
thousands of dollars nave been expended.

The Democratic Convention comes off
on the 27th inst In the meantime I
shall do what is in my power for the pro-
motion of the good cause, and endeavour
to be well accoutred for that occasion. I
expect to co-operate with Hyde, Pratt,
and Page, though as yet I have not heard
from them.

I shall expect to receive from you the
nroceedings of the Convention held at
Nauvoo on Monday last, together with
such instructions as you may deem proper
to give.

D. S. Hollister,"

(To b$ continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL SJAR.

Saturday, October 26, 1881.

PATERNAL DUTIES.

Among a people situated as the Latter-day Saints are, there cannot be too
much stress laid upon the importance of correctly bringing up and training their
children. We are engaged in laying the foundation of a new order of things,
tjuilding np a new society, forming new institutions, and bringing into practical
operation ideas which have animated and filled with joy and liope Prophets and.
good, philanthropic men in every age ; but which they failed to see realized*
Numbers of men have beheld with grief the ignorance, misery, want, misrule,
wickedness, and crime, and the wretched condition of affairs which these evils
have produced upon the earth ; and they have sought for remedies to effect a
change. Innumerable plans have been suggested to ameliorate the condition of
mankind, and efforts have not been spared to carry them out ; but they have been
comparatively fruitless. In some instances surrounding circumstances have been
unfavourable, but the main difficulty has been a lack of union and coneentrative-
ness. Men have not been able to adopt a plan upon which all could agree ;
there has been, therefore, no community of feeling to bind them together : every
one has laboured in the direction that suited him best, thinking his course to be
that which would soonest accomplish the object in view. Now, no one but the
J^migbty can correct such a condition of things as this. He is the only Being
who can prescribe a remedy. This he has done by revealing his Gospel, which,

Digitized by

692

EDITOBIAL.

if obeyed, will unite men, and comprises within itself every remedy needed to
remove the evils under which the earth groans. Yet even the Gospel would be
of no avail in producing the desired change unless there was a people who would
receive it and practise its precepts. This Gospel might be preached to the
people from now until doomsday ; but if they would not adopt its principles
and be governed by its laws, it would be of no benefit to them. They would
still be the slaves of sin, and would continue to bear the burden of the evils
which surrounded them.

The Lord, however, is gathering out a people from the various nations of the
earth who are obedient to this Gospel which he has revealed, and upon them is
the labour being laid of regenerating mankind. He is leading them in paths to
which their feet and the feet of their fathers before them for many generations
have been strangers. But the great obstacles which lie in the way of their pro-
gress are their want of faith and their incorrect traditions and habits. These
are the defects of the education they received under the old system of things ;
and they are defects which in their children they should by all means avoid.
We have witnessed an unaccountable amount of carelessness upon these points
among parents in this land who have been obedient to the Gospel. Many seem
to have no conception of the importance of training their children properly in
the principles of the Gospel, but permit them to grow up haphazard, without
any particular care as to what they believe, or with whom they associate. The
consequence of this inattention (to call it by no harsher name,) is, that it is not
unfrcquently the case that many parents who have had children born unto
them since they joined the Church, or whose children were young at that
time, now have children approximating to manhood or womanhood, who are not
members of the Church and do not have any faith in the Gospel. They are, if
possible, in a worse condition than if their parents had never known the truth.
What the feelings of such parents can be we cannot very well imagine ; but if thej
have been neglectful in teaching their children and do not feel wretched,
they are dreadfully ignorant of the system of salvation the Lord has instituted.
Every man and woman who has learned the lessons aright which the Lord is
teaching look forward with bright anticipations to their posterity being possessed
of a greater faith and power, and every way capable of being more useful than
they have been themselves. And that their anticipations may be gratified, they
take every pains in training them, weeding out of their minds every wrongs
tradition, checking every evil habit, and instilling into them an unshaken trust and
reliance in the promises of the Lord. They begin the work of regeneration
themselves and teach its principles to their children. Children thus taught will
have faith in the Lord and in his promises, and they will approach him with
full confidence to ask him for what they need.

The revelation of the Gospel has brought but little salvation to the parents
who take no pains to teach their children its principles and precepts. What
interest will they have in the kingdom of God after they themselves pass off from
active life P They will have no child to fill their place and make their name
honourable, or to contribute with greater faith and mightier works to the
accomplishment of that great work with which they have been identified. Instead
of bringing their children up to strengthen the hands of the Lord and his anointed
they bring them up to uphold the dominion and confirm the power of the Adver-
sary. Instead of their being distinct from the world, they are one with the world,
entertain the same belief, look forward with the same hope, and labour for the

Digitized by

COBRBBPONDENCE.

605

and setting sun, it preaches long and
loud for the energy, endurance, and
perseverance of this people, who have
caused the wilderness to blossom as the
rose, and have raised from the sterile
desert, year after year, grain and vege-
tables in abundance to gladden the
hearts of thousands who annually
wend their way to find a happy home
in the mountains.

The telegraph poles are erecting both
east and west from this city. San
Francisco and New York expect to
communicate with each other in a few
moments by next December. The poles
for both lines pass along East Temple-
street. The crop this year is most
abundant. The land is filled with
plenty, which is a cause of great thank-
fulness to the people, seeing that so many
arc beginning to arrive by our own
immigration from the States and
Europe.

A magnificent theatre is being erected
— all rock- work, and is building on the
plan of Drury Lane. It will be one of
"the most costly structures in the Terri-
tory, and will reflect credit on those
who have projected and are carrying on
the work. Many stores and private
dwellings have been erected which
would be a credit to any city in the
world. The extensive improvements
that have been going on during this
season have caused a scarcity for labour-
ers hitherto unknown in the Territory.
Indeed it has been very difficult to get
hands to cut down the immense fields
of grain during the harvest.

Dr. Bernhisel, our Delegate to Con-
gress, leaves in a few days for Wash-
ington. At the election he received the
universal votes of the people. Captain
fiooper and family, with Thomas
Williams, have arrived safely.

Elders Jacob Gates, N. V. Jones, and
O. V. Spencer have also safely arrived
in the city. The health of the latter
was a cause of much anxiety to all his
friends, and they are much gratified to
find him, on his return, healthy, vigorous,
and strong. I am afraid brother
Claudius ventured too much in the
changeable climate of England — a cli-
mate that has always been severe
upon the constitutions of our American
brethren.

. Captain D. H. Cannon's train arrived
about ten days ago, all well The other

companies are getting along finely.
The large immigration from Europe this
season causes the hearts of the Saints
in these valleys to rejoice and praise
God that he is blessing the labours of
servants with such £Ood success.

Remember mo kindly to Presidents
Lyman, Rich, and Cannon, and to all
who care to know about me. Have
you ever visited Ireland since your
arrival in Europe P Should you
do so, remember me kindly te the
dear Saints in that country. I have
felt exceedingly gratified to see occa-
sionally in the Millennial Star good
tidings of the work in the scenes of my
former labours.

Yours in the new and everlasting
covenant,

Gilbert Clements.
ENGLAND.

CHELTENHAM DISTRICT.

Cheltenham, Oct. 15, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — Having re-
turned here from a tour though the
Conferences comprising this District,
I now wrke to let you know how I found
things going on among the Saints.

I held meetings of several Branches
at a time in different places, both in
the Cheltenham and Hereford Confer-
ences, and a Conference meeting at
Worcester on the 6th of October ; also
meetings in a number of country
Branches. At all the meetings, without
exception, a first-rate spirit prevailed.
Quite a number of strangers have
attended most of our meetings, who
listened with great attention, and several
have been baptized.

The Saints, as a general thing, are
poor ; but the spirit they begin to en-
joy makes them feel a great deal richer
than they did a few months ago.

Praying God our Father to bless
your labours,

I remain your brother,

William Gibson.

wiltshire conference •

Bath, Oct. 10, 1861.
Dear Brother Cannon, — Having just .
returned from a tour through the Wilt-
shire Conference, I send you a few
lines, thinking you may be glad to hear
concerning the progress of the Saints
generally.

696 SUMMARY OP AND

I left Bath on the 21st of September,
visited several of the Branches, and
held meetings some eight times. I
found the Saints in good spirits, and
striving to keep pace with the kingdom
of God. Many who at one time were
connected with us, but have stepped
aside, are now making their way oack
to the sheepfold of our God, and others
are examining and obeying the truth.
I can say that the work is onward and
on the increase. There are many calls

PASSING- EVENTS.

for preaching throughout the country,
and I think that much good can be done
in this part of the Mission, if we do our
duty. Many are made to rejoice thai
Goa has revealed himself unto men
living in our day, and has restored the.
Priesthood and keys of the last dispen-
sation, whereby mankind may be saved.

Accept my kind love to yourself and
associates. I remain your brother in
the Gospel of peace,

Warren S. Snow.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

France. — A terrible storm has caused
great devastation in the department of Gard.
The Lalle mine was flooded by water, in
consequence of which the sides fell in,
burying 117 workmen, who were either suf-
focated or drowned.

Spain. — The city of Gorona, in the
province of Catalonia, has been visited by
great inundations, whereby immense
damage was done to property.

Prussia. — The coronation of the King of
Prussia took place Oct. 18. On the 17th,
the King, addressing the members of the
Prussian Diet, said — " I desired to summon
the representatives of the Chambers to my
presence even before the coronation, and I
thank you for having complied with my
wish. The rulers of Prussia receive their
crown from God. To-morrow, therefore, I
shall take the crown from the Lord's table and
place it upon my head. This is the signifi-
cation of the expression, 1 King by the grace
of God/ and therein lies the sanctity of the
crown, which is in inviolable."

Switzerland. — A letter from Hospenth,
in the canton of Urin, says that "great

auantities of snow have fallen there within
le last few days. A diligence was over-
whelmed three days since by an avalanche
near Hospenth, but all the passengers were
rescued unhurt." In the Grison3 200 sheep
have been buried under avalanches, and 700
head of cattle lost from a similar cause in
the canton of Ticino.

Poland. — A telegram from Warsaw, Oct
14, says — " A proclamation published to-day
declares the kingdom or Poland to be in a
state of siege. The military have pitched
their tents in the public squares and places
of Warsaw."

Montenegro. — Letters from Ragusa an-
nounce that insurgents from Zubzi, with
Montenegrin volunteers, attacked Cincevo
and Biovo, but withdrew after a hard fight

of three hours. 2,000 insurgents attacked
Korienielin and advanced as far as the
suburbs of Bilecia. It is asserted that,
notwithstanding pressing orders from Con-
stantinople, Omar Pasha does not venture
to attack the Montenegrins, because he has
but little confidence in his army. He is*
also apprehensive of a general insurrection
in the surrounding provinces, and mistrusts
Servia. Montenegro is in arms, and the
country is being fortified.

Egypt. — Letters from Egypt state that
the Nilotic inundations in the country have
caused a loss of cotton, estimated at one-
third of the whole crop. The damageto th.
sugar, meal, and grain crops is enormous

China. — A telegraphic despatch receive*!
in Paris from China, by way of St. Peters-
burg, states that the Emperor expired on
the 24th August. The announcement of the
death of the Emperor had produced no
change in the position of affairs in China*.
Prince Kong was exercising the functions of
the head of the Government, with the title
of Regent, which he will retain till the suc-
cession to the throne is decided.

New Zealand. — A peace ministry has
succeeded to office, reducing the chances of
war to a minimum. The natives themselves
have great confidence in the new cabinet*
which is prepared with a system of local
government to satisfy the natives.

America. — The war movements are enve-
loped in fog. It has been ascertained,
however, that the Confederates, in volun-
tarily abandoning their entrenchments near
Washington, fell back upon their old lines
of defence, extending from Fairfax Court-
house to Manassas, with the Jatter point as
their base of operations ? but the real motive
for so important a movement is still'
unknown. The Federals, meanwhile, have
occupied all the abandoned posts, and forfi-
fied in the strongest manner, •

Digitized by VjOOQ IC

BDITOBIAJL.

693

same end, and, of course, perpetuate with the rest, as far as they can, those evil*
which the Gospel has been sent to remove. Parents who suffer their children to
grow up in this condition lay up sorrow and misery for themselves and their off-
spring, and the Lord will surely hold them accountable for it. The Saints who have
children should seek to comprehend the great responsibility devolving upon them
<sonnected with the proper training of their children. There are but few who would
be so careless as not to watch over and guard carefully any gold or choioe
jewels that would be entrusted to them ; but children, being incomparably more
precious than those, require that far greater vigilance shouid be exercised over
them. Every parent in this Church in these lands should' watch carefully over
their children, teach them unceasingly the truths which the Lord has revealed,
and fortify thenv against the contagious examples to be constantly met with in
Babylon, so that when they have the privilege of going to Zion their children
may be prepared to take an active part in the work of God there, and have that'
faith which the ancients attained unto — a faith that will produce works which 1
will sweep wickedness from the face of tho earth and fully inaugurate the reign
of righteousness and peace.

News from America. — Elder D wight Eveleth, in a communication from San
Francisco, dated Sept. 20th, says —

44 Many of the old 4 Mormons ' here are getting ready to leave this country for some
place where something else but fighfing is thought of ; for, since the battle at Bull's Run,
and at Springfield, Missouri, the people generally begin to think there is going to be a
considerable of a 44 scrimmage" before the affairs are settled. And in this State, the parties
are divided into three factions, calling themselves Bepublicans, Union Democrats, and
Secession Democrats ; and the parties are pretty equally divided, and the consequence is,
every man almost is being enrolled, armed, and equipped, and is holding himself in
readiness lor any event that may turn up ; for a general turning up appears to be the
order of the day. And all I have to say is, what Sir Charles Napier said to his soldiers,
when they were about making an assault upon the fortress of Acre — 4 At 'era, you rascals.and
fulfil the prophecies.' "

From a letter received from Elder J. McKnight, dated Sept. 22, we extract
the following interesting items : —

"It is now reported that the Confederates in Missouri have stopped the overland
mail from going either east or west from St. Joseph. There is a report current
among private circles here, as having come over the wires, but not printed in the
newspapers, that, in a battle at Lexington, Missouri, on Tuesday last, 17th inst;
[Sept.], 4,000 Federals were killed, with a loss of but 400 on the Confederate side.
Batteries, arms, ammunition, and supplies in large quantities, fell into the hands
of the Confederates. Though it is, doubtless, greatly exaggerated, if true at
all, I should not be any less waling to give it credence from the Tract of its not being
chronicled by the prints. They not only do not hesitate to grossly misrepresent
when it would suit their purpose, but have found it in some instances expedient to
contradict even partially true statements, made public without due consideration, to
counteract the baneful influence of truth on the public mind — resulting in broadcast
distraction, despair, and even frenzy. What horrid features met the eye at every
corner upon the reception of the news of the Bull's Run defeat and panic ! The fear
and dreadful anticipations of evil that seem to pervade all classes throughout this
country (I refer more directly to the Northern States,) manifestly unnerves and
disqualifies them to bear up against and manfully endure actual defeat, or to even
hear a true relation of the constantly recurring disasters. The newsmongers are
beginning to get the cue ; and the Government (what there is left of it) have found
it requisite to take the matter under their "masterly" supervision, lest, also, as is
officially alleged, the mammoth plans for a nation's defence should be frustrated by a
few paltry penny-a-liners. That this has already been done in several important
instances, the public have the acknowledgement of the General-in-Chief himself.

Yet the daily journalist must have matter — must have support — must furnish his
readers, morning by morning, or evening after evening, with 44 the latest from the
seat of war." It was a fine business they were doing, truly, in the way of peddling

Digitized by

694 COBUHftPOlfDXHCB.

news, when General Scott's plana, so solemnly, secretly, and augwtlv devised*

elaborated, and perfected on paper, just the previous night, were all developed in detail,
as an after-breakfast morceau for his voracious readers, next morning. Now, how-
ever, they must be content with the precious morsels served up from the Govern-
ment cupboard and the meagre fabrications of the reporter's brain, which, requiring
correction and cortradiction in each succeeding issue, keeps the concern in motion j
and this, though a re-grinding operation, is probably the best they can do with the
material they have on hand, the machinery they have to work with, and the hands
employed in the milL

As to my movements *s a messenger of the holy Gospel among the people of the
divided States, I have realized that the hand of the Lord has been with me, to guide
and shield me daily. Though they are few, it is nevertheless gratifying to find here
And there a person willing to receive and obey the truth.

Since my arrival in Western Pennsylvania, I have baptized upwards of fifteen, and
organised a Branch at Erie, over which James H. van Natta, once a resident of
Nauvoo, has been appointed Presiding Elder. Meetings are held twice every Sunday
at his house, which are attended very regularly by the members, as also by others.
The Branch has steadily increased since its organization. The Saints are all desirous
and determined to do their utmost to gather next season, and, with the Lord's
blessing, hope to be able.

As to public preaching, there is but little opnortunity longer here ; neither is it
safe. Our enemies charge us with being Secessionists. The name, or intimation of
which, however well disavowed, is now a license for violence, knowing no bounds but
the caprice of the mob. I was informed that sixty persons recently clubbed them-
selves, having articles drawn to the effect that, if I ever came within their district,
they would hang me upon the nearest tree."

CORRESPONDENCE.

AMERICA.
[We are indebted to Elder Mills for
the following letter, which will be read
with interest] : —

G. S. L. City, Aug. 25, 18C1.

My dear Mills — It is so long since I
have written to anybody, that I almost
feel strange in taking my pen to write
a letter. Allow me to say, however,
though I have not written to you, your
memory is still green in my affections,
and not a day passes but what I think
of you. Your letters to me have ar-
rived safely; and their contents have
afforded me much satisfaction.

The good work of our God, which
you, in common with the brethren on
missions, seem so actively engaged in
forwarding, is moving onward in this
Territory. There seems to be a spirit
of zeal among the people to walk more
strictly in obedience to the counsel of
our beloved President and those asso-
ciated with him in the government of
the Church. This arises in a great
measure, I believe, from the frequent in-
tercourse the President of late has had
■with the people. When in the city,
scarcely a meeting is held without his
being in attendance, and the words of
life, with which he seems at all times so
folly endowed, are freely dispensed to

the people, encouraging the weak, re-
proving the wayward, and building up
all who seek to do the will of our
Father. It is a source of great joy to
the faithful to observe that advancing

?ears add increased usefulness to our
Tophet and leader ; and his judgment,
ripened by a lifetime of experience and
uniform integrity and faithfulness, sees
a long way a-head for the good of Zion.

The troops are gone. Camp Floyd,
which for three years past has resoun< led
with the orgies of the ungodly and be-
come a nest for every unclean thing,
has reverted to its wonted quietude
and simplicity. Sometimes I regret
that I never visited it; yet at other
times I feel grateful that I have kept
myself entirely aloof from Gentile in-
fluences and associations. I did not
even attend the sale, though many have
made fortunes by so doing. The vast
stores of groceries, provisions, and the
vast materiel of the "gallant army 19
were sold for a mere sonjr,.

The daily mail is in active operation
— two coaches a day, one east and one
west. It really looks like old times to
see a well-appointed daily coach run-
ning through the city; and when we
reflect that only a few years ago this
Territory was a wilderness, and nojf ;
is the half-way house between the rjBfng^

Digitized by

THINGS "WORTH BEMEMBEBING. VARIETIES.

697

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

Ratios. — Duple ratio is that of 2 to 1 ; sub duple, that of 1 to 2. Duplicate ratio is
that of the square of one number to the square number of another ; subduplicate is the
ratio of the square roots.

14 Sincere." — This word is derived from two Latin words — sine, without ; cera, wax.
The Romans were commonly in the habit of filling up cracks and faults in their tables
and other articles of furniture with wax ; hence, when an article was perfectly sound,
requiring no such filling up, it was called sincere (without wax).

" Blce Stocking." — The term 44 blue stocking," as applied to literary ladies, was con-
ferred on a society which was called the 41 Blue Stocking Club," in which females were
admitted. It was so named because one of its prominent, active members (a Mr. Stilling-
fleet) wore blue stockings, which were then a novelty.

44 Caught a Tartar." — This expression originated as follows: — An Irish soldier in the
Imperial service, during a battle with the Turks, called out to a comrade — 44 I've caught
a Tartar !" 44 Bring him along, then," said the other. 14 Ah, sure, but I can't." 44 Well,
come without him, then." 44 Arrah ! but he won't let me !" was the naive rejoinder.
Hence, to 44 catch a Tartar " now means to be over- matched when one is confident of
yictorv."

44 BtTPocRiTE." — This is a Greek word, signifying an actor, or stage-player. From the
immense extent of the ancient theatres, it was necessary, in order to avoid a ludicrous
disproportion, to make the players, by artificial means, of an extraordinary size. They
were generally masked, and also increased, by a hidden trumpet, the power and volume of
their voices. Thus they were, in several respects, feigners. Hence, a 44 hypocrite " now
means a dissembler — any one who feigns a part. Even the word 44 act " is often used in
the sense of feigning, or pretending.

Derivation of Celebrated Names. — The name of the gorgeous French palace of the
Tuileries was derived from the circumstance, that where the palace stands was the site of
an old manufactory of tiles (tuileries), as if one should say the tile-house. Oxford, the
name of the celebrated seat of learning, has a*derivation equally humble : Oxford is only
the ox -path across the river. Bosphorus is a high-sounding name in the Greek language ;
but what is it, in the English translation, but bull-path or ox-ford P

44 It is a law of nature that every woman should be married ; but when we know how
enormous is the excess of the female over the male population, all surprise that so
many of the fair sex should be unmarried vanishes." — London Journal.

Paper from Wood. — A French lady has succeeded in manufacturing excellent paper
from wood, at a price much lower than that made from rags. Her method consists
chiefly in the use of a new kind of machinery for reducing the wood to fine fibres, which
are afterwards treated with the alkalies and acids necessary to reduce them to pulp, and
the composition is finally bleached by the action of chlorine.

Ancient Ruins in America. — 44 The plain upon which lie the massive relics of gorgeous
temples and magnificent halls slopes gradually towards the riveF Pecos, and is very fertile,
crossed by a gurgling stream of purest water, that not only sustains a rich vegetation, but
perhaps furnished with this necessary element the thousands who once inhabited this
present wilderness. The city was probably built by a warlike race, as it is quadrangular
and arranged with skill, to afford tne highest protection against an exterior foe, many of
'the buildings on the outer line being pierced with loopholes, as though calculated for the
use of weapons. Several of the buildings are of vast size, and built of massive blocks of
granite rock, which could only have been brought to their present condition by a vast
amount of labour. There are the ruins of three noble edifices, each presenting a front of
three hundred feet, made of ponderous blocks of stone, and the dilapidated walls are even
now thirty-five feet high. There are no partitions in the (middle) supposed temple, so
that the room must have been vast ; and there are also carvings in bas-relief and fresco
work. Appearances justify the conclusion that these silent ruins could once boast of halls
as gorgeously decorated by the artist's hand as those of Thebes and Palmyra. The.
buildings are all loopholed on each side, much resembling that found in the old feudal
castles of Europe, designed for the use of archers. The blocks of which these edifices are
composed are cemented together by a species of mortar of a bituminous character, which
has such tenacity that vast masses of wall have fallen down without the blocks being
detached by the shock."— Fart Smith (Ark.) Times.

VARIETIES.

49$ POETBY.— -*ADD*EJML MARRIAGE.

Our Ancestors.— Mr. Darwin, whose treatise on the development of species hat fcqfe
the book of the season, did not appear at thi British Association. ERs place was, howev*^
well filled by Professor Huxlev, who hafl to do battle for the new doctrine. " If I may, If
«Uowed to inquire/' said the bishop of Oxford, " would you rather have had an ape f<#
your grandfather or grandmother ?" "I would rather have had apes on both sides for mf
ancestors," replied the naturalist, unab#hed, " than human beings so warped by preju-
dice that they were afraid to behold the truth."

Specimen of Justice. — " On Monday^ three girls were brought before the magistrate,
the Rev. T. Brooke, at Nantwich polic e • • U fl op, thrge d with being found without having
any visible means of subsistence. The girls gave their names as Eliza Brown, Emily
Stanley, and Maria Haltams, and said tfcey were all three factory hands. They had last
worked for a Mr. Taylor, of Birmingham, but had been on the tramp for several weeks,
and were now making their way to ManAester, to try to get work there. They passed
through Nantwich late on Sunday night,^md being fatigued, and not having monev to
purchase lodging, (they had only 7£d. amiy^e three of them,) they laid down on a door-
step in Mill-street, where they .were fbunMUH asleep by an officer. They were each sent
to gaol for twenty-one days." — Weekly times.

Death among the Goli>-Fish. — Wher^ner you meet with folks who keep gold-fish in
the old-fashioned glass globes, you will be sure to hear the melancholy complaint that they
will die in spite of every care taken to preserve them. The water is changed most regu-
larly, the glass kept beautifully clean, the veseri shaded from the sunshine ; yet, alas I
alas ! death is always busy amongst them. If it internal disease ? Is it external fungi P
No ; the cause is starvation. Every other pel is expected to eat, but these gold-carp are
expected to live on^-nothing ! " But don't they eat the animalcules P" Nonsense. Give
them a few small worms, or anglers' geuues, Twice a week, and, to prevent the necessity
of frequently changing the water, plant in a base of bright sea-shingles a handful of
Anacharsis, Valisneria, or Water-Violet, and put in a few coil-shell (water-snails) to act
as scavengers ; and instead of floating in succession " on their watery bier," they will get
plump and healthy, and grow as rapidly as in their native waters.

POETRY. ~ ' *

CHARITY.

There Is a grace of priceless worth,
Which mortals can possess,

Whose presence sanctifies the earth,
And blesses those Who bless.

Who seeks this holy robe to wear,

A virtue entertains ;
And pleasures such as angels share

Continually remains.

With gentle voice and outstretched ai
It graciously receives

The smitten wanderer it charms ;
^ A web of love it weaves.
London.

It hopeth all things for the best,

And chaseth every fear,
Consoles the bitterly distressed,

And kisses up each tear.
It vaunteth not, nor seeks rtaown,

But patiently endures ;
And thus a never- fading crown

For its reward secures.

Hall, beauteous minister of love !

Beneath thy an) Ue stay ;
And faithfully I fain would prove

Thou guid'st the holier way.

T. J. D.

-« , 3

Addrkss — George Peacock, care of Mr Robert Sands,
Scotland.

Hospital Street, B^fehisontown, Glasgow.

JIabjued.— At Cheltenham, on the 23rd Sept, by Elder Willard O. Smith, Elder Chutes A. JtMs, of Weavt

cester Conference, and Miss Eliza S. Bell, formerly of London. ■ *

QONTBHTS.

Minutes of Nottingham Conference 683 Summary of News and Passing Events..

History of Joseph Smith 689 Things Worth Remembering.

Editorial.— Paternal Duties.— News from America 691 Varieties. .. ,

Correspondence.— America : Letter from Elder Poetry.— "Charity"....

Gilbert Clements.— England: Letters from Address. ~-

Elders William Gibson and Warren S. Snow... 694 Marriage..

LIVERPOOL :

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q, CANNON, 42, ISLINGTON.

LONEOtf:

fOB SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTV buuK i>hPOT. 90. FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STRUT
/ ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSBLERS.

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

U A noise thatt eoate even to the endt of the earth; for the Lordhi&haamtrwerey xviththenaticiu: he wQL
pUad with aU/teeh; he will give them that are wicked to the eword, eatththe Lord."— Jsbmuah.

No. 44, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, Nov. 2, 1861. Price One Penny.

SYNOPSIS OF A DISCOURSE BT PRESIDENT RICH,

DELIVERED AT A CONFERENCE IN COPENHAGEN, SEPTEMBER 16, 1861.

Brethren and Sisters, — It is very satis-
factory to us to meet with the Saints
in. this land and every where else, and to
witness the ever-onward progress of this
great latter-day work. For more than
thirty succeeding years it has been
opposed with unceasing virulence by
the proud enemies of the truth it oon-
' tains, but entirely without effect. In
spite of all opposition, our progress
has not been checked. The principles of
' Mormonism ' are still alive and move
with increasing success all the day long
in the midst of the earth. It cannot be
killed. This work is not of such a
nature that human beings can stretch
forth their feeble hands to retard it.
It originated from God, and is firm as
the pillars of heaven. It is Jehovah's
decree it shall go forth, and it cannot be
counteracted. It is for us to be faithful
and diligent in keeping the command-
ments of God in our whole life. By.
keeping the commandments of God men
will be profited. Every good deed
performed will lead them onward
towards all the peace, happiness, bliss,
and greatness that exist. Every evil
deed and work of iniquity will lead to
all the sorrow, misery, # corruption,
wretchedness, and despair in existence,
and sink them downwards all the time —
yea, even to the bottomless pit spoken
of. Always do right, and there will

never be anything wrong with you:
you will benefit yourselves and hurt
nobody. If there ever is any evil and
wrong with you, you may trace it back,
and you will find that it originated from
yourselves. If you do not be saved, you
can blame nobody but yourselves. You
cannot lay the fault to the minister or
the Saints : it will not be substantial.

It has been the design of the Lord to
save men in every dispensation. He
has ever made offers to them to that
effect. But they have not always been
willing to accept his offers, and the time
has finally come when the invitation
and offers have long been required, that
it has been too late, and the gates of sal-
vation and bliss have been closed.

We have got to be tried in all things
as our fathers, even as Abraham. If it
be not to lay our sons and daughters
upon the altar, we shall be tried and
proven in other ways, to see if we really
love the truth above all things in the
world. Yea, we shall be tested how far
and how much we love the truth. And
how great will not their blessings be who
overcome P When Abraham had proved
faithful to his God, what blessing did
not immediately follow him P He and
many of our fathers have combated
manfully by ever following the prin-
ciples of truth and virtue ; and why f
Because their eyes were open to see, and

700

SYNOPSIS OF A DISCOURSE.

their understanding was clear. They
foresaw the benefits, blessings, and glo-
rious reward that would follow a true,
virtuous, and upright course.

TV hen the Saviour was afflicted and
fasted forty days, he was tempted by
the Devil. He was offered all the glory
of the world, if he would only fall down
and worship the Devil. He would not
do it ; and why P He foresaw and knew
that he would some day possess much
more than all that he was offered.
Likewise it has been with others in
similar trials: they have looked forward
with a discerning eye. And nothing
could buy them then. How many
men in this generation would not wor-
ship the Devil, if they were offered the
kingdom of Denmark for it ? Their
deeds answer the question. How do I
look upon men raising up their voice
and influence against this work P They
are contending against God, and they
will be weak as the dust. They have
undertaken a work they are not com-
petent to perform. 1 pity them. The
world is wicked and corrupt and on the
downward road. We are commanded to
be as a city on the mountains, and to let

our light shine, that we may be instru-
mental in the hands of God to sa 'e the
honest in heart, and lead them unto
light and truth. This is our errand
here. We live in the midst of the
nations who will be visited with judg-
ment, and fall, they being sentenced by
Heaven's high hand decree. Their
visitation will come surely, but not all at
once. Men talk about revelation, that
it is not necessary, &c.

The people in the days of the Saviour
were commanded to seek for the
revelations of the Spirit, that they
may be enabled to serve God acceptably.
So it is with us. If we live humble and
faithful, we shall never err. The men.
God has placed to lead us will lead us
right, and we must follow their counsel
and be obedient, and no blessing or
good thing can be withheld from us.
Nobody stands in our way for onward
progress and salvation in the celestial
kingdom of God. I must conclude,
praying God to multiply his blessings
and protection over you, in the name of
Jesus our Redeemer. Amen.

A. Christknsex, Re}>orier.

SYNOPSIS OP A DISCOURSE BY PRESIDENT LYMAN,

DELIVERED AT A CONFERENCE IN COPENHAGEN, SEPTEMBER 15, 1S6I

Brethren and Sisters, — I am glad once
more to meet with you. We have many
reasons for feeling thankful to God for
the multiplicity of favours he bestows
upon us from time to time; one of
which is that we are preserved and
upheld since our last meeting together
in this place. But I do not know of
any additional reasons we have to feel
dissatisfied and repine. We may be
placed in a variety of circumstances
from time to time : we may have learned
something which we did not know at
our last meeting here in the fall. There
is a continual development of light,
power, and blessings in us while we are
nero in our probationary state.

We have come here again, and we
feel to bless you and strengthen you ;
and we wish to gain blessing and
strength ourselves. I am a little selfish
in this respect. We are strengthened,
comforted, and blest to feel, see, and
know that you are progressing; and

the principles of truth are more extended
and acknowledged among men, and
work with an increasing effect all the
day long. This is ti uly a great blessing.
The glorious principles of our holy reli-
gion place us on a sure basis> and
shed forth pure streams from the foun-
tain of life, which happify, invigo-
rate, and bring a pleasant and healing
influence ; and we feel as though we
are the happiest ones among the
creations of God.

However our circumstances may he,
we possess wealth, glory, and greatness,
which no invading robber can dispossess
us of. It is far more precious to us
than all the glittering gold, and all the
wealth, splendour, and refinement that
some of our fellow-men arc permitted
to possess for a while, to make them
comfortable and render life pleasant.
All this glory and greatness are always
endangered Dy the invading robber, by
the flames, by pestilence, and death, Jbc.

Digitized by CjOOg IC

SYNOPSIS OP

Our wealth is not thus to be wasted
away and gone for ever. You need not
think, because it may have fallen to
your lot to struggle with poverty and
Tarious kinds of adversity, that you were
born to linger away your time in
misery and sorrow, be disgraced, and
go to perdition. You will not always
be poor. Tho designs of your Father in
heaven with you is not of such a nature.
By faithfulness and good works you will
aspire to a glorious destination. The
promises of the Lord can never fail.

It is for the Saints here in Copen-
hagen and everywhere to practise right-
eousness in all their lives. You must
not imagine that you cannot do it here,
and that it is only to be found in Zion,
or in some remote corner of the earth.
The elements of it are all around us ;
and if you practise it till you get home,
and then continue, you will feel joyful,
as you do to day, and hopeful that you
may Kve many-days and see Zion in its
full development of glory upon the
earth.

Men talk a great deal about heavenly
beings, and admire them. Who are the
heavenly beings who surround the
throne of God and worship in his holy
temple day after day, singing songs
of praise and adoration P They are
simply men and women who have been
true and faithful in the days of their
probation, and have taken an upward
Btep from this lower creation, from the
mist and encumbrances we are now en-
veloped in. They are the millions who
have overcome, been counted among
glorified spirits around the throne of
God, and gained their exaltation in
times past. They are sons and daugh-
ters of our Father. Jesus is our elder
brother, "the first-born," and was
anointed with the oil of gladness above
his fellows, and received a greater glory
than any of the rest of his brethren ;
and why ? Simply because he loved
righteousness and hated iniquity. We
are commanded to imitate his example
and be glorified with him and his
Father, as well as the rest of our breth-
ren and sisters who have gene before
us and passed through the ordeals of
death.

a discourse. 701

In proportion as we love righteousness
and hate iniquity we shall receive bles-
sings and glory. The same fountains
that shed forth their golden streams and
blessed and exalted our fathers will
flow to you, and you will be enabled to
gain a full victory and triumph on the
very same conditions as they did.
Therefore if our coming here would have
some effect in persuading you to be firm
and stedfast, and to walk in righteousness
and truth before God, we shall feel our-
selves richly rewarded.

"Always do right, and there will
never be anything wrong with you,"
as brother Rich says. What effect
would it have on you, if an embassy
from the regions of glory — from the
throne of Jehovah — would come here and
teach yon ? How would you know
they were telling you the truth ? You
are not prepared for their immediate
associations. Believe me when I speak
the truth, and those who are with you
as representatives of God to you. Our
blessing, our progress, and glory will be
in proportion to our labour to save and
exalt our fellow-men.

For over thirty years men have used
their influence and skill to check the
progress of this work and prove Joseph
Smith to be a false prophet. But
where is the first one that has been able
to prove one of the principles which he
or his successors have taught to this
generation to be incorrect or false ?
There is not one who has done so
hitherto. A true Prophet speaketh
nothing but the truth, ana it is useless to
contradict him, for truth will prevail and
have its due effect. The movements
taken by our enemies to check the pro-
gress of this work have proved ineffec-
tual. God will lead on his people to
victory and triumph, and the enemies
and opposers of truth will see sorrow.
The fruits of their labours will follow
them even to their tombs. Their own
proceedings will be the means of their
dissolution and final doom.

May Heaven grant you every blessing,
and comfort you, and enable you to
be faithful and true to the end, is my
prayer in the name of Christ. Amen.

A. Curistensen, Reporter.

It is little troubles that wear the heart out. It is easier to throw a bombshell a mile
than a feather, even with artillery.

702

PBE-EXI8TBNCK OF MAX.

PRE-EXISTENCE OF MAN.

BY ELDER CHABLB8 NAPPBR.

Among the various theories com-
prising what is called the Christian
faith, perhaps there are none more calcu-
lated to make men infidels than the one
that assigns to the spirit of man a mo-
mentary existence previous to entering
the human tabernacle. It is readily
admitted by professing Christians that
God is not only the author of our earthly
existence, but also the author of our
spirits, though to those spirits is as-
signed an origin only coequal with the
organization of the natural body, while
it is believed that the spirit of Jesus
existed in the bosom of eternity. The
Scriptures say of Jesus that " He
existed in the bosom of the Father
before the world was," or before *' the
foundations of the earth were laid" (see
John xvii, 5 and 24) ; and this passage
of Scripture leads us to ask, If one
spirit could exist with God prior to the
foundations of the earth being laid, why
not more than one P — yea, why not mil-
lions P Reason does not forbid its
being so. Let us see if revelation is
favourable to the idea. From Job iii.,
3 — 7, we learn this fact, that there not
only existed one son before the earth's
foundations were laid, but a plurality of
sons — intelligences that could rejoice at
the prospect before them. It reads —
" When the morning stars sang together,
and the sons of God shouted for joy."
Jeremiah i., 5 ; also Doctrine and Co-
venants, sec. 10, par. 8, teach the same
doctrine ; and other passages could be
produced, both from tne Scriptures and
from the teachings of the servants of
God in these last times, to prove that
the spirit of man had an existenco long
anterior to his taking upon himself a
mortal body ; but the few selected must
suffice, as we must pass on to consider
that part of the subject we started with.
All Christians agree that we must have
faith in God, in order to be saved;
that we must not only believe that
he is our Creator, but that he is our
greatest Benefactor, and that it is
44 in Him we live, move, and have our
being ;" that it was bv his power we
were created inteiligencies, and by his
_ power that we are sustained day by day.
Again, all professing Christians believe

that God is good in an infinite degree,
that he is just, that he is not a hard
master, seeking to reap where he hrs
not previously sown, and that " he
desires not the death of a Binner, bat
rather that he should turn unto him and
live."

It is a fact which requires no argu-
ments to prove, that human beings come
into existence under circumstances
widely different, and in situations which
are the extremes of favourable
and unfavourable to the development of
godliness, virtue, and holiness. To say
nothing of the vast disparity in condi-
tion witnessed in our own land, the con-
dition of the heathen — those dark-
skinned children of other lands who
never heard of Jesus, and who bear on
their faces and in their persons the
stamp of God-forsaken degeneracy;
may well be contrasted with the con-
dition of those who live in lands where
the mercies of atoning love and the plan
of salvation are proclaimed and incul-
cated ; and the question might well be
raised, Why has God, a being of justice
and mercy, ordained that so many mil-
lions of human beings should have an
existence so inferior in point of oppor-
tunities to others of the family of man f
And why, if all spirits are created at
the introduction of life to the human
tabernacle alike, with the same heaven
as their reward, if they abide the reve-
lations of God, and with the same hell
awaiting them, if they fail to do so, is
there such vast disparity between the
opportunities meted out to them here
on earth, through which only, according
to the popular theory, they can live so
as to gain salvation in the presence of
GodP Why are the sable Africans
placed under the curse of degradation,
reared in the most deplorable ignorance,
and precluded from accepting " the
faith which saves," through want of
opportunities, while the Englishman is
blessed with the advantages of educa-
tion, enlightenment, and revealed reli-

fion P Why even is there such disparity
etween those who are born in families
where God is honoured and served in
word and deed, and those who first
breathe the atmosphere of earth in the

PBE-EXI8TENCB 07 HAN.

703

haunts of iniquity, evil, and crime ?
These are grave and serious questions,
requiring space, time, and a knowledge
of the revelations of heaven to answer.
But if the spirits of all were endowed
with but a momentary existence prior
to birth, with such widely dissimilar
circumstances to surround them through
life, acting on their mortal career as
aids in assisting them to gain, or
barriers in their way of obtaining,
eternal life, then there is evident
injustice perpetrated by the Author of
man's being. This view of the subject
it is which makes men infidels; and with
such a theory held and taught by those
who professedly reverence the character
of Deity and assume the right of teach-
ing his commandments, I cannot see
how they could well help becoming so.

Now let us take a rational, and at the
same time a scriptural view of the sub-
ject ; and in doing so, we ask, What is
the state and condition of spirits pre-
vious to taking bodies. That spirits
have a pre-existence, we have already
«hown that the Scriptures teach •, but
what we want to be under stood is not
only that they existed long anterior to
taking bodies ; but that they have the
use of their agency, the same as in their
probation ; and when this matter is
rightly understood, it will sweep away
all the abuse and folly charged upon God
in relation to this subject. Some may
ask, How can you prove that spirits live
in the exercise of their agency ? I an-
swer, Proof is found in the Scriptures
themselves, which all Christians profess,
to believe in. (See Jude's Epistle, 6th
Terse.) This important text not only
confirms the truth of man's pre-existence,
but conveys another fact concerning
these self-same spirits. It reads, " The
angels which kept not their first estate,"
clearly implying that there was another
estate for them to pass into or enter
upon, if faithful in the first ; but because
they kept not their first, the revelations
of God informs that they were cast out.

Now, as in all matters there are many
degrees between all extremes, so in the
case under our consideration. If the
third part of the spirits in heaven (as
this text informs us,) sinned so greatly
as to forfeit their right to proceed in
the scale of godly progress, two-thirds
at least did not torteit that right ; but
"While two-thirds did not forfeit that

sacred right, it is not reasonable to be-
lieve that all were equally valiant in
maintaining their allegiance unto God.
Thus, while they were not valiant, nor
strictly rebellious, it is reasonable to
suppose that many in the great conflict
stood neutral.

It is admitted that the economy of
God is based upon the principle of re-
wards and punishments; and, putting
aside the soul- destroying theory that
all who do not attain to that degree of
excellence which entitles them to a
seat in the celestial kingdom are cast
into one common hell, we most admit
that, while there are different decrees of
goodness, all are not good or bad alike ;
so there must of necessity be various
degrees of glory, or good conditions in
the various states of progress of the
spirits from their first estate, until they
are crowned with God and Christ in his
kingdom.

All Christians v at least, bdieve that
our works in this life determine exactly
our position in the next. The Scriptures
hold out this doctrine, that men will
be 44 judged according to the deeds done
in the body, whether they be good or
evil." Then, reasoning analogically,
if our works here determine our future
existence, who shall say that our
works in our first estate have not had
their influence in determining our
position in this life P Reason assents to
it, and revelation does not forbid it, but,
on the contrary, teaches that it is so. It
was their extreme rebellion in the first
estate that decided the extreme position
of the fallen spirits. Why, then, may
not the very unfavourable conditions
by which some spirits are surrounded
in this life be referred back to their first
estate, or to some anterior cause prior
to their taking bodies. It is the only
conclusion we can come to, reasonably
or scripturally. It is an insult to Goi
to charge him with creating spirits
momentarily, and sending them to take
bodies in such unfavourable positions
in our own Christian land, to say no-
thing of the millions that descend to take
up bodies among the natives of Africa,
surrounded by all the ignorance of
heathen life. Who could charge God with
such a course, and yet say that God is
no respecter of persons, or that God \s
love? What love, mercy, or justice would
there be in such practices P Well may

Digitized by

704

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

the Prophet say that 14 darkness covers
the earth, and gross darkness the peo-
ple." Alas, the declaration is indeed
too true, as is evinced in the theory
under our consideration; and this is
only one principle out of the many con-
nected with the economy of God that
inspired man has misunderstood, simply
through being destitute of that Spirit
which teaches the things of God, that
takes of the things of the Father, and
reveals them unto us.

How happy, then, brethren and sisters,
ought we to be in finding ourselves as -

sociated with God's work — with the
eternal Priesthood — linked on to the
car of endless progression, with the
bright prospect of celestial glory, if we
continue unto the end. Knowing these
things, then, let us awake and sanc ify
ourselves before God, reach out the
glorious truths we have received unto
erring humanity, that they may with
us learn their mission upon the earth,
and be saved, not only from the evils of
this world, but saved in the celestial
kingdom of God.

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

{Continued from page 691.)

Thursday, 30. — Municipal Court met
at 10 a.m., over which I presided as
mayor and chief justice. Present,
William Marks, Orson Spencer, George
W. Harris, Gustavus Hills, and Samuel
Bennett, aldermen, associate justices.
Jeremiah Smith, sen., was brought up
on Habeas Corpus, from the custody of
T. B. Johnson, the complainant.

T. B. Johnson being called by the court,
answered that he did not acknowledge
the jurisdiction of this court ; that his
writ was only to keep Smith until he
could get another writ for him ; that Mr.
Hickock had a writ from Judge Pope,
and he considered Mr. Smith his prisoner,
and he attended this court as a matter of
courtesy ; and if any one offered resist-
ance, he was instructed by Government
to give their names, &c, and wrote the
names of the court, &c.

Smith's counsel replied to such a sub-
terfuge writ.

The court thought it due the court to
hear the reasons why the jurisdiction of
the court was not regarded.

T. B. Johnson said he did not come to
make a speech ; but was instructed to
arrest the man. He intended to make no
defence. He was an agent of the United
States. "Your writ of Habeas Corpus
has nothing more to do with this case
than a man in the moon. I have not
been able to get authority, and did not
come to make defence." Read from Charles
B. Penrose's handwriting (so purporting)
33 sec. of Act Sept. 24th, 1789, Act of
Congress. Had agreed to wait the decision
of this court, but had not agreed to abide
the decision.

James A. McCanse was called by the

court and asked, " Do you subscribe to
the decision of Mr. Johnson in the matter?"

McCause would not decide. Would
like counsel.

T. B. Johnson said he did not ask any
favours of the court. He was a United
States' agent.

Counsellor Hugins said — " If Cause sur-
renders his claim, we will not go into the
merits of the case ; but if Canse claims
the prisoner, we will go into the merits.

Counsellor Hugins read a petition of
Jeremiah Smith for another writ of
Habeas Corpus. G. P. Stiles, counsel for
prisoner, said that Johnson had given up
the prisoner on the first claim.

T. B. Johnson said he did not surrender
his claims ; had nothing to say about it.
" Take your own course, gentlemen."

Stiles said he has given him up on the
first writ, and now says he says nothing
about it ; and upon this ground we claim
a discharge.

T. B. Johnson said— "We would be
defending the writ before Jud^e Pope. I
come here as an agent of the United States.
The prisoner has been taken out of mj
hand, I consider, illegally. I do not come
here to prosecute or to defend a writ of
Habeas Corpus. There is no law for these
proceedings. I know my rights. If
this court thinks it right to discharge the

frisoner, let them do it — let them do it
do not ask any favours of the court — I
ask justice. The laws of Illinois have no
power over the United States laws. Let
this court discharge him, and I shall take
another course — / do not say against you
as a court. I came here to arrest Jeremiak
Smith."

Justice Harris asked if he meant to
intimidate the court by threats.

Digitized by Google

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

705

The Chief Justice remarked that it was
the duty of the United States and Federal
Government to treat their subjects and
constituents with all that complacency
and good feeling which they wished in
return, and to avoid every threatening
aspect, every intimidating and harsh
treatment. He respected the United
States laws, but would not yield up any
right ceded to them. The United States
have no right to trample our laws under
their feet. The court is bound by oath
to support the Constitution of the United
States, and State of Illinois, and the writ
of Habeas Corpus. The Constitution of
the United State3 and Habeas Corpus
shall not be denied. If the court deny
the writ of Habeas Corpus, they perjure
themselves. The United States have no
right to usurp power to intimidate, and
the court would see them all destroyed
before he would perjure himself. We
have asked no power. Mr. Smith asked
us to investigate. We were bound to do
so. Let the ^Federal Government hurl on
us their forces, "dragoons," &c: we are
not to be intimidated. This court Is
clothed with the Habeas Corpus, and will
execute it according to the law. I
understand some law, and more justice,
and know as much about the rights of
American citizens as any man."

T. B. Johnson said — ' * If 1 did say any-
thing indecorous to the court, I take it
back."

Court responded — "All is right."

Court ordered that the prisoner be dis-
charged, the complainant having refused
to prosecute his claim ; and that j udgment
be entered up v. T. B. Johnson, as agent,
for costs of suit.

Afterwards another petition for
another writ of Habeas Corpus was
presented, and the writ issued and
tried. I copy the minutes from the
Municipal docket: —
" State of Illinois, / . . , ^ .

CityofNauvoo, j Mumcipal Court.

United States v. Jeremiah Smith, on
Habeas Corpus.

May 30, 1844, came Jeremiah Smith,
and upon the reading and filing the peti-
tion for a writ of Habeas Corpus to be
directed to one Luther W. Hickock to
have forthwith before the Municipal Court
the body of the said Jeremiah Smith upon
said writ. Said writ was granted by the
court in accordance with the prayer of the
petitioner.

The writ of Habeas Corpus was served
instanter by the Marshal in court, and
petitioner present ; which writ, with the
Marshal's return thereon, is on file in the
clerk's office.

The foregoing petition of said Jeremiah
Smith, together with a certified copy of
the warrant, by virtue of which the said
Hickock held the said Jeremiah Smith in
custody, are on file in the clerk's office.

Present, Joseph Smith, mayor and chief
justice ; and William Marks, Orson Spen-
cer, George W. Harris, Gustavus Hills,
and Samuel Bennett, aldermen, associate
justices.

Luther W. Hickock was called by the
court to answer in the case, who said he
had a writ from J udge Pope, and should
consider Smith hi3 prisoner until he was
compelled to give him up. Wanted an
adjournment.

The court informed Hickock that Smith
was their prisoner.

H. T. Hugins and George P. Stiles,
counsel for Smith, objected to an adjourn-
ment, as there had been two weeks'
adjournment for the Government to pro-
cure witnesses in another suit which had
closed, arising out of the same case, and
which had been abandoned by the prose-
cuting party.

T. B. Johnson appeared before the
court and said — " I stand here as an agent
for the Government to act in the case of
Smith in any State where he maybe found ;
and if we are to go into an investigation
on the merits of the case, and go behind
the writ, I must have time to send to
Washington for witnesses ; and I am
instructed to consult with Justin Butter-
field, Esq. , Governor Chambers of Iowa,
and Mr. McPherson of St. Louis.

The Marshal, J. P. Greene, presented
the prisoner for triaL

The court ordered the Marshal to take
charge of the prisoner, and have him
forthcoming from time to time for triaL

Hickock asked for an adjournment
until the afternoon.

Hugins said — * ' If they want to go into
the merits of the case, we will give them
any time ; but we propose to dispense
with the merits, and move a discharge on
the insufficiency of the papers. Doctor
Hickock has no legal authority to arrest
the prisoner;" and read from page 51,
Revised Statutes of Illinois, sec. .TJiJ.

T. B. Johnson said he could show the
law different, and asked for one week's
adjournment.

One o'clock, p.m., court adjourned until
after dinner to hear the pleas.

Three o'clock, p.m., court sat, the same
as in the morning.

H. T. Hugins and George P. StUes,
counsel for Smith, read and filed their
plea, moving the court that said Smith be
discharged, and suffered to go at large.

1st. Because the person issuing the

Digitized by

Google

706

EDITORIAL.

warrant on which he has been arrested is
unauthorized to issue the same.

2nd. Because the process has been issued
in a case and under circumstances where
the law does not allow process.

3rd. Because the person having custody
of said Smith is unauthorized to execute
the warrant under which he is acting,
and is not the person empowered by law
to detain him.

4th. Because said Smith has been, by
and before a competent court, legally
examined and discharged in relation to
the subject matter set forth in said
warrant.

5th. Because said writ is defective in a
substantial form required bv law.

L. W. Hickock was called, and persisted
in considering tbe authority under which
he acted good and sufficient.

Counsellor Hugins urged the 1st and
2nd count in his plea, and read from the
Constitution of the United States, Art.

4, 2nd sec, 2nd par; 3rd count, read
Revised Statutes of Illinois, page 51, sec
399, and pace 3^4 ; 4th count, read the
certificate of John S. Dunlap, clerk of the
District Court for the county of Desmoines,
Iowa Territory, dated May 21st, 1844, a
copy of which is on file in the clerk's
office.

L. W. Hickock said he had nothing to
aay ; and the case was submitted.

Decision. — The court is of opinion,
when they take into consideration their
oath to support the Constitution of the
United States, that the certificate of John

5. Dunlap, clerk of the District Court for
the county of Desmoines, Territory of
Iowa, is sufficient to authorize the dis-
charge of the prisoner, because the Con-
stitution says no person shall twice be

put in jeopardy of life for the same offence.
The decision of the court is that the*
prisoner be discharged on all the points
for which plea has been made in his
behalf, and that judgment be entered
against the prosecutor for costs."

Evening, T. B. Johnson was going
to Burlington. Jeremiah Smith swore
out an execution for $77.75. Mr. John-
son acknowledged the fee bill, and after-
wards threatened to bring the dragoons
in order to get Jeremiah Smith.

Mr. "Hickock called for a copy of tho
proceedings of the Municipal Court.

I wrote the following letter to Judge*
Pope : —

"Nauvoo, May 30, 1844.

Sir, — Permit me to introduce to your
particular notice and confidence, as
brethren of the 'mystic tie,' Mr. Jeremiah.
Smith of Iowa Territory, and Mr. BL T.
Hugins of Burlington, in said Territory.
Mr. Smith is a gentleman whose state-
ments can be relied on, and Mr. Hugins a
lawyer of sound principles, as well as
promising talents ; and I always take
pleasure in extending the reputations of
honourable men among honourable men,
especially when it appears to me that the
benevolence and clemency extended by
me is needed and merited by worthy men.
Concious, too, that your Honour is liberal
and just in your sphere, and will appre-
ciate the golden rule, I have only to greet
you with my best wishes for your welfare
and happiness.

Respectfully, I have the honour to be.
Your humble servant,

Joseph Smith.

Judge Pope."

(To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, November 2, 1861.

DIVISIONS AND REVOLUTIONS WHICH THREATEN BABYLON.

The condition of Christendom just now presents a very unfavourable and dis-
couraging aspeot to all who are interested in the success and perpetuity of the?
different forms of religion believed and practised within its limits. The various
churches seem to be on the eve of experiencing as great changes and convulsions,
religiously, as the various nations are threatened with, politically. A spirit of
revolution has seized upon all classes and members of churches ; and in many
instances priests and ministers are as fully imbued with it as non-professors .

Digitized by

XDITOBIAX.

707

Priests and people are breaking away from the old moorings where they and
their fathers have anchored for generations, and are launching forth on to new
waters in search of better anchorage. A spirit of restlessness — a disposition
to tear down old landmarks and to rear new ones, to set aside old creeds and to
frame new ones, is everywhere apparent. In America, the position of the
churches composing Christendom is wretchedly bad ; but the prospect before
many in Europe is but little, if any, better. The dreadful strife now in progress
there has effectually divided the churches in one section from their fellow-
worshippers in the other. The Crusaders of olden times were animated by no
greater zeal — entered upon their expeditions against " infidel" and " accursed?'
Moslems and pagans with no greater fervour and hatred than do the Catholics,
Episcopalians, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, &c, &c, of the North, against
the people of the same creed and belief of the South, and vice versa. The apolo-
gists for this dreadful, unnatural, and unholy contest between brethren of the
same belief, who worship, or profess to worship, the same God in the same form,
and who each entreat him, of course, after the approved fashion, to give success
to their arms and discomfiture to their opponents, can plead the existence of war
as the cause of this division ; but in Europe the divisions and quarrellings which
prevail do not admit of such a palliation for their existence. Here it is not a war
of sections, but a gradual disintegration or falling to pieces of the churches, which
produces dissension.

Among Roman Catholics in Europe there is a revolution in progress that
seriously threatens the security of the power and privileges which the Pope and
his predecessors have enjoyed for many centuries. In vain has he and many of
his clergy protested energetically and constantly against these designs, and
threatened with the thunders of the Church and spiritual vengeance all who
would be so bold as to adopt these heretical views. The " sons of the Church "
are the most actively engaged in curtailing the power of their pontiff, and in en-
deavouring to reduce him to the condition of a spiritual ruler alone. Even pro-
minent priests have become so indoctrinated with these ideas, that they set forth
in pamphlets and other writings the advantages that would attend the renuncia-
tion by the Pope of the powers which he now holds. Altogether the head of the
Catholic Church is having a warm time of it, with every prospect of its continuing
until his dominion is taken away ; and what makes it more aggravating is, that
they who are engaged in thus endeavouring to reduce him are those to whom he
has looked for support. Propositions are now openly discussed with a boldness
and freedom by professed Roman Catholics, and without exciting any particular
surprise, that in past times would have been thought to savour too much of
heresy to escape punishment.

Among the ministers and members of the Church of England also there are
causes at work which seriously threaten to destroy the union and harmony of
that body. The bishops are alarmed at the increase of scepticism and the dispo-
sition to doubt some of the most cherished doctrines of the Church manifested by
"both priests and laymen, and have instituted legal proceedings against some of the
former class who have lately published their heterodox opinions on various points
of belief. The struggle will, without doubt, be a hard one, and will be
viewed with great interest by that entire church— the orthodox and con-
servative portion, with the hope of seeing heresy extirpated, audits advocates
removed from priestly office, and an example made that will have the effect of
deterring others from doing similarly, and the free-thinking portion with the

Digitized by

708

HDITOBIAL.

hope of seeing freedom of speech and unlimited discussion and liberal ideas
gain a victory.

There is wide-spread dissatisfaction entertained among the clergymen and
members of that church on the score of the doctrines contained in the Prayer-
book. One of that body, a distinguished minister in this town, has recently
resigned his position, because, as he says, he cannot conscientiously assent to
everything contained in their church Prayer-book. At a meeting which was held
by his congregation to present him an address, these feelings of dissent and
unbelief found general expression. Though professing great reverence for their
church, they, with the minister, freely admitted that there is much that is not
true in her services, that her liturgy is incorrect, that her creeds are worn out,
and that there are some doctrines they would like to see en irely swept away;
one insinuating in his remarks that there were dry, old-fashioned dogmas which
were only manufactured in ancient times by priests for the purpose of keeping
mankind in bondage ! The minister himself went so far as to declare that he did
not believe there was one clergyman in the Church of England but had changed
his opinion — but had changed his faith within the last ten years! This statement,
if true, places every clergymen in the unenviable position of preaching what he
does not believe ; for, if they believed the doctrines of their chureh ten years
ago, and have since changed their opinions and faith, they cannot believe them
now, but must be hypocrites. Some of the ideas advanced at that meeting struck
us, upon reading them, as being the strangest we ever remember seeing advanced
by persons professing to have any faith in the church with which they are con-
nected as being the Church of Christ. It was asserted that the formularies of
the church, having been drawn up some centuries ngo, were unsuited to the belief
of persons acquainted with the discoveries in science of the present age ; that it
was a marvel that any man should consider himself bound to them, and to remain
stationary when everything around him is moving onward ; that every thought-
ful student amongst the English clergy must incur the difficulty of continuing
to preach that which increasing knowledge has shown to be no longer true ; that
In repeating the creeds, &c, of the church, they were repeating that which they
did not believe, and which was not true, &c. !

We could understand such statements as these, if the persons making them
claimed no higher origin for their church than man. Man might frame creeds,
liturgies, services, and even doctrines, in one age, which the increased light of a
succeeding age might show clearly to be erroneous. But we believe the Church
of England claims a higher origin than this. It claims to be tne Church of God,
with a Priesthood lineally received from the Apostles. How any person can
entertain this belief, and yet believe that there are doctrines held to
be true by it that are false, and that they would like to see entirely swept away,
is incomprehensible. If any of its doctrines or creeds are false now, they were
false when they were framed, and have been false, however much they have been
believed, from that time until the present. The revelations of science, or the
increase of knowledge, could never falsify them, if they were ever true. Every
revelation of knowledge upon science or any other principle only confirms the
truth of the doctrines of the Son of God. The lapse of centuries has no effect
upon them ; they never become worn out. It is preposterous to suppose that
God would call a church his, or would acknowledge it in any manner, that
believed in false doctrines and taught and enforced false creeds, or that he
would acknowledge men as his servants who were such hypocrites as to

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

709

repeat and preach what they did not believe, and knew to be untrue.
.The man or the congregation who can indulge in such ideas must be worshipping
some other God than Him who made the heavens and the earth. Indeed, all
that we have quoted from the statements made at this meeting goes to clearly
prove that this clergyman and his congregation really view the Church of
England, its doctrines, creeds, services, &c, &c, as being man-made, and of course
think that they can all be changed to agree with the revelations of science thus
far obtained. In this belief they are joined by a large number of others. But
what a miserable condition for a people to be in ! and what a wretched system to
be connected with ! If it be changed now, how long can it remain? Changes
will have to be made again as the knowledge of science, Ac, increases ; or have
men attained unto such knowledge now as to be able to arrange a perfect system P,
Truly has the Prophet said, " Darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness
the people." Their creeds and doctrines, being devised by human wisdom, cannot
stand the test of time or increased knowledge. The weakness and folly of these
things are apparent to every thinking mind, and men reject them as unworthy of
their faith. Scepticism is thus increased. Every man-made system is in this
condition, and to this may be attributed the changes and revolutions which are
being effected throughout Babylon. They have forsaken the Lord, "the fountain
of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no
water."

Norwich Conference. — A Conference was held in the city of Norwich
on the 13th instant, at which were present Elder E. H. Blackburn, District Pre-
sident ; Elder R. Bentley, Conference President ; Elder J. Bull, President of the
Bedfordshire Conference ; the Travelling Elders, and others of the Priesthood
pertaining to the Norwich Conference. At the morning's meeting Elder
Bentley rose and reported, the Saints generally throughout the Conference as
being in good standing, striving with their might to build up the kingdom of
God, and feeling that in it there is all that is necessary to constitute their
present and eternal happiness. The Conference, he said, numbered 411, including
51 Elders, 13 Priests, 11 Teachers, and 6 Deacons; 4 having been cut off, 23
emigrated, and 43 baptized, since last January, Elder Blackburn then
rose and expressed himself as being pleased to hear the good report given.
He exhorted the Saints in all things to have faith in the Lord, to make the prin-
ciples of the Gospel first and foremost in their operations, and to rely upon God's
promises. After some further remarks upon the duties of the Saints, he pre-
sented the authorities of the Church, who were unanimously sustained, together
with the District Ministry in general ; after which the meeting adjourned. In
the afternoon the sacrament was administered, and Elder Bentley read the
Financial Report of the Conference. Elder Bull then addressed the meeting
upon various points connected with the duties of the Saints and the blessings
pertaining to them as members of the Church of Christ. After some further
observations from Elder Blackburn, the Conference adjourned till the evening,
when Elder Cooper made some remarks on the necessity of the Saints becoming
men and women in the kingdom of God, to live their religion for themselves,
that they might secure its blessings ; after which President Blackburn delivered
a discourse on the fulfilment of ancient and modern prophecy in relation to the
events that are now transpiring among the nations. The Conference then
closed.

Digitized by

710

EDITORIAL.

Channel Islands Conference. — A Conference was held in St. Heliers, Jersey,
on the 6th October, at which were present Elders Philip De la Mare, Henriod,
Trenchard, and others of the Priesthood. At the morning meeting, after the
usual preliminaries, Elder Henriod addressed the brethren and gave a few
general instructions. The Presidents of Branches were then called upon to give their
reports, which they did with satisfaction. The Gorey Branch was then disor-
ganized, and the few members thereof amalgamated with the St. Heliers Branch ;
also the Alderney with the Guernsey Branch. The Financial Report was then
read and received, after which Elder De la Mare rose and gave some general
instructions to the brethren present. After some other business the meeting
was closed with prayer.

In the afternoon instructions were given by Elder Henriod on the ordinance
of the Lord's Supper, which was then administered. Elder De la Mare expressed
his pleasure at meeting with the Saints in a Conference capacity. He then
presented the authorities of the Church, who were sustained by the unanimous
votes of the assembly ; after which the meeting adjourned till the evening,
when Elder Henriod addressed the congregation, stating that he was highly
pleased with the improvement that had taken place among the Saints since he had
been in their midst, and that it should be an encouragement to us to do still
better in the future. He said that we not only lived for time, but also for
eternity, and that the past should stand as a lesson to us for the future, so that
we might be able to avoid the errors into which we had fallen in times gone by.
Elder De la Mare said that he was pleased to see the good spirit manifested,
and that so large a congregation had met together ; also to see the happiness
they enjoyed, which could not be enjoyed without the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
He said that the day of freedom for the Saints was drawing nigh for those who
enjoyed and lived up to the blessings which the Gospel produces. We are glad
to learn that peace and harmony reigned throughout the day, and that the
Saints had a time of rejoicing.

News from Home. — By letter from President Young, dated Sept. 18, we learn
that all the emigrating companies, excepting Joseph W. Young's, had arrived.
The oxen that were sent from the Valley to the frontiers and had returned, had
suffered far less loss by deaths and looked much better, as a general thing, than
those purchased in the States. The President adds —

44 The companies have been pleased with their captains, and the captains with their
companies ; and this season's emigration have been signally blest all the time, from their
departure from their former homes to their new homes in our peaceful valleys."

Movements of the Presidency. — By letter from President Lyman, dated
Oct. 21, we learn that it was his and President Rich's intention to leave Denmark
immediately for Liverpool.

Notice. — In balancing the Book and Star accounts of the various Conferences,
we discover that in some instances they are becoming more involved in debt. We
would therefore urge upon the Conference Presidents and Book Agents the
necessity of adopting measures to clear their Conferences from debt as early as
practicable, and to continue so with this Office.

C0B.BE8P0NDKNCE.

711

CORRESPONDENCE.

SCANDINAVIAN MI88ION.
Copenhagen, Oct. 1, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Pear Brother, — I have been absent
from my usual field of labour since I
wrote last. I attended the Conference
meetins on the 15th ult. in this city,
where Presidents Lyman and Rich were
present. The hall was very crowded,
about 1 ,000 being present. It was truly
the best day we have ever seen in Den-
mark. The power of God rested on his
servants on this occasion, and every
one who had a honest heart felt " It is
good and pleasant to be a Saint of God."
Presidents Lvman, Rich, and Van Cott
left this city on the 21st, to go to the
island of Fyen, to hold Conference; and
after that they went to Lytland, where
they are at present. It is about 90
miles from here. President Van Cott
arrived this morning, having travelled
all night by the railway and steamboat.
He informs us that brothers Lyman and
Rich will prolong their visit in Lytland,
and be here next Monday.

I have just returned from Sweden,
where I have been most of the time
since our Conference here. I visited
several Branches in Skaana Conference,
attended five meetings with the Saints
as well as strangers, and visited many
people, bearing my testimony before
them under all circumstances. Said
Conference (Skaana) numbers 6 1 mem-
bers, and has 7 Travelling Elders, who
have a great deal to do, trying always
to open new places. They baptized
69 persons during last quarter, and
future prospects are very promising.
There are good Saints and many honest
people in Sweden. The authorities do
not come out so hard against us as they
did a while back : they are quite civil,
which has its effect upon tne people.
They think that the " Mormons" have
some liberties and rights in the realm
as well as others, and that what they do
not have, but want, they ought to have.

When visiting the fortifications in
Landscrono (a small city), where I took
a look at the criminals confined within
the walls, the number of which is 1,000,
oon|ned for life-time, I was informed

that numbers of our Elders had in
earlier days been confined there ; but
they have put a stop to such premature
imprisonment now, and the Elders can
go pretty free. The people became im-
patient with the imprisonment of
Elders, as there never was any crime
proved against them, and the people had
to pay for our brethren's accommoda-
tion in the prison, and they considered
that they were punished (with taxation)
instead of the Elders; so they have
very deliberately quitted it now, and
feel better.

The Swedish people read the Bible
considerably, which makes many apt to
be friendlv to our cause when, from
investigation, they have been able to
see a single spark of its contents.
Malmo is the chief city of this province :
it holds about 20,000 inhabitants. There
are some large factories for cotton and
other fabrics, which the people chiefly
subsist upon. There are about 130
Saints in the Branch there. I attended
an English school-meeting with the
Saints, and found that they are acquir-
ing a knowledge of the rudiments of
that language very fast. Elder Rosen-
green, the President of the Conference,
is the teacher. He is the best Swedish
Englishman I ever met with : he speaks
very plain. He is young — about 21. .

I attended a meeting with the Saints
here in a hall, last Sunday, which was
very crowded, where eleven persons were
confirmed. I was informed by the
brethren that a considerable number
more have been baptized, who were not
present.

I must conclude. Praying God to
multiply blessings upon you in your
arduous labour in this great work, I
subscribe myself yours in the Lord,
A. Christbnsen.

SWISS AND ITALIAN MISSION.

Basel, Oct. 14, 1861.

President Geo. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — During the past few
months we have baptised in this Mis-
sion about thirty persons, and there are
hopes of some more soo^^f^ej^^

712

SUMMARY*

to cut off some ten or twelve, and there
are still some that are determined to go
to their master, or at least to do
as they like. Since we have begun
clearing up the Branches and trimming
off the dead portions, thoso who remain
feel better and more like coming up to
their duties, and really feel that they
are blessed with labour when they live
their religion much better than when
they do not.

The papers are full of" titbits "about
us " poor deluded people," of which we
have had no opportunity of replying as
yet, as we have not published anything

since the emigration, on account of the
close times. Many of the Saints are
entirely out of employment, and others
are working for board and two francs
per week, and are glad to get that.

Brother Ballif left last week for
Carlsrue in the Duchy of Baden ; brother
Gcrber is in Zurich, and brother Muller
is in St. Imner, canton Bern. All
feeling well last accounts.

My best love to yourself, family, and
all the brethren.

Very truly, as ever, yours faithfully,

John L. Smith.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

France. — The Emperor Napoleon has
conceived the idea of constructing a great
arsenal in the centre of France, for security;
and Bourge?, between Paris and Lyons,
has been selected as the most appropriate
spot.

Italy. — Several Bourbon ^conspirators,
among whom is Prince Attajano, have been
arrested. Reports are current of an ap-
proaching reactionary movement.

Spain. — The rivers had inundated the
lower part of Gerona. The water, in some
instances, had reached the first story of the
houses, and the destruction of property had
been immense. It was feared that the
inundation had been general throughout
the province.

Poland. — The telegraphic news from
Warsaw is very serious. The Russian troops
had forcibly entered several of the churches
and carried off the male portion of the con-
gregations to the citadel. In consequence
of this violation, the churches have been
closed; and. as all other churches are liable
to similar profanation, the General Con-
istory of the Archbishopric of Warsaw has
ordered them to be closed until a guarantee
shall be obtained against further profana-
tion. The Government of St. Petersburg
has ordered the authorities of Russian
Poland to employ the military without re-
serve. The prisons are full of persons
arrested.

Egypt. — A telegraphic despatch from
Trieste, of the 17 th, states that the last
intelligence from Egypt is very gloomy.
The. extraordinary inundation of the Nile
has destroyed more than fifty villages. The
railroad is torn up, and the telegraph line
between Alexandria and Corfu is I roken.
The palace of Ismail Pasha and another
belonging to Mustapha Pasha are destroyed.

America. — A special despatch to the

Republican, dated Jefferson City, the 7th
instant, says — 44 Information has been
received here that about three weeks ago &
slave insurrection was attempted in Jasper
county, and that about thirty-five of the
negroes were killed and a number of others
were to be hanged. The discovery of the
plot proved that the insurrection was wide-
spread, and that the slaves intended to mur-
der their masters and perpetrate all manner
of barbarities." A New York journal
says — " It is provoking enough to witness
British steamers running the blockade, and .
conveying (as in the case of the Bermuda
at Savannah.) arms and amunition to the
enemy direct ; but it is quite as annoying
to be informed by the Richmond papers
that Sir J. Knight, member of the British
Parliament,has arrived there with despatches
from the Confederate commissioner s in
England to the ' Confederate Government.*
If this is the English notion of 'neutrality/
one is at a loss to understand by what rule
of interpretation mankind are to apply to
her Majesty's proclamation, in order to com-
prehend it." A New York i>aper states
that a strong body of Confederates crossed
from the mainland and attacked the Federal
camp near Hatteras Inlet. The Federals
retreated, carrying away tents and provi-
sions, and leaving 50 prisoners. The Federal
steamers Montccello and Susquehanna ar- '
rived with assistance, and shelled the Con- ^
federates who had landed, add forced them * j
to return to their steamers with heavy los*»\*
They also sarik two Confederate vessels. »
A report from Norfolk states that the Con»dB
federate fleet of gunboats attacked the hlockwfl
ading squadron at New Orleans Passes, sndH^
after a sharp fight sank one and drove th^B
rest of the vessels ashore. They were or-K
ganiz : ng a fresh expedition to capture thoS
disabled vessels* O r\r\a\o X

Digitized by Vj(

THINGS WOBTH BEMEMBEBING. VABIETIES.

713

THINGS WORTH REMEMBERING.

" Feather in his Cap/' — It was an ancient custom among the Hungarians that none
should wear a feather but he who had killed a Turk, to whom it was lawful to show the
number he had killed by the number of feathers in his cap. Hence arose the expression,
** That will be a feather in his cap." *

44 Packets." — Packet-ships are generally passenger-ships, and the origin of the term

rackets " as applied to them is as follows : — Pack signifies a large bag, (bag and pack
being originally one word, and are now merely different spellings and pronunciations of
the same word,) and a packet is a little pack or bag ; bulky articles being packed in large
bags, and smaller or more select articles in little ones, or packets. Ships carrying bulky
freight would not have much spare room for passengers, and passenger-ships would not
have much accommodation for bulky articles of freight, but could easily carry small
parcels ; and as they sailed quicker than other ships, small packs of costlier articles were
generally sent by them. Hence the ships that carried the passengers and packets came
to be called packet-ships, and afterwards, for brevity, 11 packets."

44 Post." — The term "post " as applied to conveyances of letters, &c, originated as
follows : — In former times, travelling over moorlands and lonely regions was confined to
favourable seasons ; but as letters and newspaper sbecame more common, it was necessary
for the mail-coaches or horses to travel at all seasons, through all kinds of country ; and
posts were fixed at certain distances along the unfenced road to enable the rider or driver
to keep in the track, which, when heavy snows covered the ground, it would have been
difficult to keep. Thus, the unfenced roads along which the letters and news were carried
were literally post roads ; and hence, also, the horses or coaches conveying them came to be
termed post-horses and post-coaches; the men that took charge of them, post-men;
the offices at which they were left, post-offices ; and the men who kept them, post-
masters.

Ignis Fatuus. — The ignis fatuus, also called the 44 Will-o'-the-wisp" and 44 Jack-o'-
lantern," is a flame produced by spontaneous combustion, caused by the decay of animal or
vegetable bodies which evolve phosphoretted hydrogen gas, under circamstances attended
by a low degree of heat sufficient to ignite the gases. These flames are seen over marshy
places and burial grounds, and are sometimes called 44 corpse candles " by peop'e who,
ignorant of the cause, are terrified at the effect, the advancing or retrograding flame assum-
ing, to their excited fancy, the appearance of the ghost of some departed friend or foe,
as the case may be. If the beholder move towards the light upon which he ^azes, it may
as it were, flee from him ; or, if he turn from it and walk away, it may follow him, as it
were, step by step. Matters so volatile as those which produce the ignis fatuus would
naturally be driven back by the motion in the air caused by an advancing body ; and, on
the other hand, a person moving from them would naturally create a current in which the
ignis fatuus would follow. Poisonous gases, escaping from corpses or other decaying
substances, thus pass into the air and take fire, and are thereby converted into harmless

What can a man have in his pocket when it is empty ? A hole.

A little three -year-old boy, already set apart for a lawyer's calling, being taken in
hand with a switch, after having been forbidden to pick another pear frcm a favourite
tree, indignantly exclaimed — 44 Mamma, I did not pick off" the pear ; you come and see if I
did." Sure enough he didn't. He simply stood there and ate it, and the core was still
dangling from the stem !

A Dog Story. — The Bangor Union relates that a large dog had been accustomed to
get bits of money from his master to go to a meat-stall to get his lunch of fresh meat
One day, when change was short, his master gave Growler a piece of white paper on which
was an order for the meat. The dog, after much urging, carried it to the meat-stall and
received his food, and so for several days, when, thinking one piece of paper was as good
as another, lie would pick up pieces of white paper and carry them to the stall without
applying to his master. By-and-by a long bill came from the meat dealer, who had such
confidence in the dog that he did not think to look at the paper,. and the dog himself was
very fat. No arrest was made, and the dog occupies as respectable a position in society
as ever.

compounds.

VARIETIES.

714

i POETRY — MONEY LIST.*

POETRY.

SYMPATHY.

Sympathy 's a holy* feeling
Sent as from the realms above!

Soothing sorrow by revealing
Fragments of a heaven-born lore!

Such a love as angels witness,

Such a love as angels feel,
Having, by it holy fitness,

Power the wounds of grief to heal.

Human nature, unpolluted,

Is a deep pellucid stream;
Full and flowing, undiluted

By the world's deceptive dream,—

Full of rich and glorious beauties —

Beauties that are halt divine
Fittiug us for holy duties,

Through the daily round of time,—
Fitting us to gladden any

Who may come within our sphere :
Be they few, or be they many,

There are ever some to cheer.

All have gifts committed to them
For the good of those around ;

And the good transmitted through them
In eternity is found.

God of mercy ! grant I ever
To do good may have the power ;

To do evil may I never
live to see that wretched hour!

Sympathy, thou heaven-born feeling!

Dwell forever in my heart;
Teach me, by thine own revealing;

How I may sweet peace impart.

I shall bless myself in blessing

Those who sorrow—those who mourn;
For beneath love's own caressing

I shall gather sweet return.

My own shoulder will be lightened

Of the load it has to bear,
And my spirit will be brightened

By the sympathy I share.
God of love! grant I ever

To do good may have the will;
Take thy Spirit from me never,

Then I'D be thy daughter stilL
Sympathy's a link that binds us

In creation's mystic chain ;
And whene'er its spirit finds us,

God is near to heal the pain.
I ean see her form before rae,

And ber voice is blest to me,
Saying, as she's bending o'er me,
" Be the child of sympathy !"

Hahhia T. Kara.

MONEY LIBT-SIPT. 20th. TO OCT. 14th.

9. L. Adams ...

£9

W. Dallin

B* Brown

8. Hargraves ...

L. Bowen

W. Hopwood ...

W. Thurgood ...

r»

A. Orme

J. D. Chase ...

H. W. Barnett...

T. Crawley

O. Reed

R. Palmer

J. Clark

B. Price

B. Cliff

Carried forward £53

10*

Brot. fwd.

C. Welch
S. H. B. Smith
W. S. Baxter ...
P. De la Mare
Hugh Evans ...
J. Griffiths ...
W. H. Dame ...

D. M. DavieB ...
W. H. Pitts ...
J. C. Graham...
R. Bent ley ...
W. G. Smith ...
R. Hodgert ...
T. O. King ...
T. W. Rees ...

£63 10 lOg

2 5 4
6 9 3

1 14 10
10
5 in
12 1}

5 17 5

13 1

6 10 11

3 7 5J
3 0}
6 15
14 8

2 9 11

Carried forward £96 10 10}

Brot. fwd.
R. Evans
J. Lindsay
A. Nelson
G. G. Bywater
W. C. Staines...
J. Gibbs u.
W. G. Mills ...
Mark Barnes ...
J. Bull
R. Sands
W. Reid
Thomas Lies ...
E. Henriod ...
J. Needham ...

Total

£96 10 10*

2 6

1 16

2 5

3 17
35 4

12
11 1 10*

1 14 10
14 5 11

10
3
2
5
6

4 8*
9 10
9
9 Of
O

£194 14 1}

CONTENTS,

Synopsis of a Discourse by President Rich 699

Synopsis of a Discourse by President Lyman 700

Pre-existence of Man 70S

History of Joseph Smith 704

Editorial.— Divisions and Revolutions which
Threaten Babylon.— Norwich Conference. —
Channel Islands Conference— News from
Home.— Movements of the Presidency.— Notice 706

Correspondence.— Scandanavian Mission: Letter
from Elder A Christei sen — Swiss and Italian

Mission: Letter from Elder John L. Smith-. 711

Summary of News and Passing Events «. 711

Varieties 71S

Things Worth Remembering.— Varie- ies *. 71*

Poetry.— 44 Sympathy.- .. 714

Money List „ .. „ 71*

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 4S, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

I OR SALE AT THS LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DKPOT. SO. FLORENCE STREET CROSS
ISLINGTON ; AND ALL BOOKSELERS. r

Digitized by VjOOQ Lc

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAB

**A nelee shall corns even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controverty with the ndtioru : ho+X
plead with aU flesh ; he wQl five then that art wicked to the sword, satththe Lord."— J kuwiav.

No. 46, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, Nov. 9, 1861. Price One Penny.

FOREKNOWLEDGE.

There is a principle of blessing and
power which some- of the children of
men have possessed at different periods
of the- world's age, by which they have
been placed in position&vaktly superior,
ki intrinsic value, ta those occupied by
the Test df mankind. If wealth could
purchase H, tfie golden treasures of
California and Australia would not be
considered too much for the possession
of it. If talent, learning, or science
could procure it, -its pursuit would be
as zealously followed by men of learn-
ing and talent now as ever the alche-
mists of old sought after the "philoso-
pher's stone." And if force of arms
oould obtain it, then would the red rain
of many a bloody battle-field prove how
anxious ambition would be to add it to
its longj list of acquisitions. It has
been vainly sought after in all ranks of
life from illigitimate sources. Wealth
' and poverty, patricianism and plebeian-
ism, bounding youth and tottering age,
power and impotence, and even science,
-nave all in turns bowed before the
. charlatan's shrine in quest of it. As-
trology, magio, witchcraft, divination,
and incantation have been each in-
voked for its aid, and every real or
supposed science which it was believed
could render any assistance in obtaining
it have been successively and assidu-
ously cultivated in search of it.
The principle is foreknowledge. By

the possession of it individuals and
communities have been signally blessed,
some few instances cf which may lj>e
cited in their proper place; but it would
be an interesting subject, did space
permit, to glance at gome of the means
employed to obtain possession of it,
apart from the plan which Jehovah has
ordained, from the magicians, sooth-
sayers, and astrologers of ancient times,
down to the mediums and fortune-
tellers of the present day. In every
age the desire has been the same, and
the different modes employed have been
but the various expositions of the same
sentiment in different ages and countries.
This desire to pry into the secret and
hidden seems implanted in the very con-
stitution of man, as if designed by tbe
great Author of his existence to belegi-
timately gratified under provisional
conditions. It is the same impelling
motive which under other Raises prompts
him to tread the unexplored fields of
science, and launch out on the ocean of
undiscovered truth, still inquiring — ever
unsatisfied with the amount of know-
ledge he possesses, and in every suc-
ceeding search revealing that secret
union between Deity and man which
links the finite to the infinite, and
speaks volumes concerning man's origin
and ultimate destiny, when the bound-
less treasures of eternal truth shall lio
open before his enraptured vision. In

Digitized by

716

FOBEKNOWLEDGE.

heathen lands and in classic times this
desire flourished on a fruitful soil ; and
so closely did this faith assimilate itself
with the character of the people — so
completely did it permeate the entire
mythological worship of the ancients,
that no undertaking of importance was
entered upon without " consulting the
gods" as to its success, through divina-
tions, oracles, or incantations. The
flight of a bird, the course of an arrow,
the condition of the entrails of a fowl,
the responses of a Pythoness, or the
ambiguous declarations of an oracle
were so many means of determining the
success or failure of a contemplated
project. The Magi of the East, the
sorcerers of Egypt, the astrologers of
Babylon, tho 44 wizards and those who
had familiar spirits," whose practices
were forbidden by the Lord, were they
who openly professed the power of un-
ravelling the mystic future, and laying
bare the secrets hidden in the womb of
time. So important were they con-
sidered, that no eastern potentate was
without their services. They accom-
panied him to battle in time of war, ut-
tering prognostications to cheer the
courage and inspire hope in the bosoms
of his soldiery, and haunting the pre-
cincts of Ms palace in times of peace,
ready to place their skill and avowed
superhuman knowledge at his disposal.
So numerous did they become, that they
swarmed in every place of importance ;
and so much credence was placed in
their abilities and power, that even
Saul, the Israelitish king, sought the ser-
vices of one when the Lord refused to
answer him in the ordinary and sacred
modes through which he communicated
with the house of Jacob.

Christian professors are just as
anxious to obtain a knowledge of tho
future as the idolatrous and mythologi-
cal worshippers of ancient times were,
And possessing, as they do, the record
of some of God's dealings with his
chosen people, they can read therein an
account of some of the blessings enjoyed
by those who really were endowed with
this priceless gift. While believing the
statements contained in the Bible, they
repudiate the thought of man being so
privileged now from the same source ;
and though reading the anathemas
levelled against those who countenanced,
iractised, or patronized illegitimate

means of obtaining or trying to obtain
foreknowledge, yet they do not hesitate
to seek after forbidden knowledge, often-
times half jesting wholly in earnest,
from sources of a similar character.
The Rosicrucians and astrologers of
mediaeval times might well take the
place of the Chaldeans and astrologers
of earlier ages, and tho clairvoyants,
mediums, and such like characters' in
this day can supply any vacancy which
may have been created by those
mediaeval means having fallen into
desuetude. Times change, empires
totter and crumble to ruins, ages and
generations are hurried on the ceaseless
current of time to the mighty ocean of
the past, and religious faith finds ex-
pression in different forms, rites, and
ceremonies ; but such traits of the human
character cling with undying grasp to
humanity in all its mutations. This
consideration will provoke thought in
the minds of many, and impel them to
ask, Is it the ever- craving demand of
mankind to know the future which calls
forth the always ready supply of fore-
telling material P or is there a potent,
yet unhallowed influence of whose
power, circumscribed and bounded
though it may be, man can avail him-
self under certain circumstances, as
well as that sacred and holy one which
opens tho vision of the children of light
*to a knowledge of the future, with all its
kaleidoscopic changes ? It may be
that both questions could be truthfully
answered in the affirmative. Doubtless
many impostors have preyed upon the
gullibility of the ignorant and credu-
lous ; nay, the fact is indubitably clear
that such is the case. But on the other
hand, the warnings of Jehovah against
such practices, the certainty of evidence
produced in numerous instances, puz-
zling the most intelligent observers and ,
convincing the incredulous, with re-
corded instances in Scripture and in
other writings, of a strange power dis-
played under peculiar circumstances,
give strength to the conviction that
there is an influence, unhallowed in its
nature, of whose aid mankind can at
times avail themselves,

Assuming this hypothesis, the first
consideration is, Can this influence or
power give man any real, truthful
knowledge, or bless him with any
permanent good ? To suppose th at such

Digitized by

FOREKNOWLEDGE.

717

a source can supply a knowledge of the
mystic future correctly, and lay bare
the mighty secrets of unborn time, is to
suppose it co-equal with Jehovah in the
power to direct the affairs of the future,
and ordain the times and seasons which
shall be revealed ; or in a knowledge of
those plans and designs which are hid
up in the bosom of eternity. Either of
these suppositions is impossible ; hence,
a knowledge, viewed from this source,
may be false in its every detail, and would
therefore totally mislead, while it carries
-with it the condition of uncertainty ; or,
if true in part, that would be so limited
and bounded, from the limited know-
ledge of the influence which imparted
it, and so mixed up with error from the
character of the source whence derived
— a character which must essentially
combine within itself falsity, because it
presumes to a knowledge which it does
not possess — that it would be worse
than valueless — worse even than total
ignorance, for the modicum of truth
imparted would be a belief in the error
with which it was associated; and as
error is ever the offspring of ignorance,
and generates sin, whichleads to death,
the consequence is that it would prove
a curse instead of a blessing to its pos-
sessor. Hence, then, mankind can re-
ceive no real, truthful, uncorrupted
knowledge from such a source, — conse-
quently, can derive no permanent good
from such connection, so that it would
be better to remain in total ignorance
of the future, than seek a knowledge of
it from a source which would mislead,
and mystify where it professed to guide
and make plain, inculcate error under
the guise ot truth, and strew life's path-
way with the thorns and brauibles of
ignorance and sin, in the borrowed
characters of knowledge and virtue.

But the possession of the principle is
"a glorious privilege, when that pos-
session is legitimate, truthful, and
stamped with the sanction of heaven.
It enabled a Noah to prepare for the
coming deluge, and save himself and his
family while the rest of mankind
perished under the outpouring of God's
wrath. It raised a Joseph from the
dungeon's cell to a throne, honoured, and
obeyed, beside Egypt's haughty lord.
It inspired a Moses to declare the
crowning events of Israel's career
down through their generations, and

speak of the changes that should befal
the nation. It elevated a Daniel to
preside, through its monarch, over the
destinies of a great nation. It inspired
the Prophets to declare the downfall
and degradation of the , Israelitish
nation, and cheered their hearts to sing
the glories of that sun of promise whose
vivifying rays should dispel the shadows
of the long night of suffering under
which they should groan. It directed,
guided, and controlled the chosen of
God ; it gave them power over their
enemies, and success in their undertak-
ings, and conferred upon them blessing
numerous and invaluable. The Book
of Mormon presents illustrations similar
to those contained in the Bible, of the
importance of its possession, which our
space will not permit us to point out ;
and the history of the Latter-day Work
teems with incidents of a wise' policy
pursued under the guidance of this
Heaven-bestowed gift. By its possession
the Elders of Israel have time and
again been preserved from intended
evils and threatening dangers ; by it
the Saints were preserved from being
scattered when driven before .the mad
violence of insatiate mobs, and their
iaith was sustained in every emergency ;
by it they were directed to their present
peaceful abode ; by it they were warned
to prepare for approaching famine, and
were preserved amid many privations,
while a cold and heartless world laughed
with glee at their related sufferings;
by it they were and are being warned
to flee from the nations over whom the
wrath of God hangs threateningly with
a fearful shadowing; and by it they
can look forward to the opening glories
of a Zion rich in the possession of God's
treasured blessings.

Much as the inhabitants of the earth
desire its possession, they do not believe
it possible for man to obtain it now by
the same means and under the same
conditions that it was obtained and en-
joyed anciently. Why P Nowhere
does the Bible teach the impossibility
of mankind becoming possessed of it.
There is not a single text in the book
which would lead a man, divested of
prejudice and tradition, to believe so ;
but, on the contrary, it sets forth with
plainness and in pointed language the
possibility of it. If ever there was a
time n the history of the world when

Digitized by

718

TESTIFYING AND P BEACHING.

foreknowledge would be a blessing
above price, and invaluable to those
who possessed it, that time is now.
With the nations racked and torn
asunder, with a fearful foreboding and
looking forward to the dreary and dis-
mal future, with actual scarcity and
prospective starvation staring the toiling
millions in the face, with every power
arming and preparing for war, while
men's hearts are failing them for fear,
surely that man who could unfold the
end of these things would be looked
upon as a benefactor by all P Yet such
is not the case. Blind in their own
conceit, wishing to know, yet unbe-
lieving, quaking with uncertain and
nameless dread, yet thrusting aside the
means by which certainty would reach
them, they present a strange anomaly,
to be pitied for their ignorance, yet

Sunished for their wilful blind ness and
etermined unbelief. "™
The possession of this principle does
not imply a knowledge of the minutire and
details of every event as many errone-
ously believe. To confer a gift so en-
tirely comprehensive upon man would be
a positive injury to him, by preventing
him from cultivating those qualities and
powers through the development of
which only he can become great. Who
would seek to cultivate forethought,
acquire knowledge, improve opportu-
nities, exercise discrimination, or crow
in wisdom, if the minutest details of
every event were revealed unto him
beforehand P Like the scholar who had
all his lessons read, copies written,
sums wrought, and scholastic labours

Eerformed for him, when the helping
and was removed he would be as igno-
rant, undeveloped, and uneducated as
before he obtained its aid. Not a power
of the mind improved by exercise, not
a faculty quickened by watchfulness,
and not a latent quality called into

action, he would remain with the growth
of years in the swaddling bands of men-
tal childishness. Suoh are not the
means by which Jehovah blesses, yet
developes his children. Pointing out
by the powers of eternity the events of
the future like landmarks on the voyage
of life, he cheers the traveller in mor-
tality with sunny glimpses of pleasant
scenes through the storms of adversity
and trials, points out the breakers and
dangers ahead, and gives him courage
and wisdom to steer clear of them, but
permits him to labour for his own
safety and care under the wisdom and
strength supplied. Or, in more homely
language, he unfolds the events con-
nected with a nation or people, their
rising and greatness, or downfall and
degeneracy; often, in general terms,
declares the blessings which individuals
may enjoy through life; and, if they live
faithful, endows them with power to
labour for the obtaining of these bles-
sings, and aids them to improve upon
the knowledge imparted and develop
every noble quality with which they are
endowed. Thus he has declared to this

feneration, through his Apostles and
rophets of the last dispensation, the
fate of the nations of the earth, the up-
building of his kingdom, and the glory
of his Zion upon the earth, with many
other precious truths ; and this know-
ledge is* an anchor of hope to the soul
of the faithful Saint, who, amid all the
trials and distresses which crowd upon
the hopeless inhabitants of the earth,
can ever rejoice, strong in faith, in the
prospect, open to the vision of those
only who have experienced the glorious
blessings of foreknowledge ; and no im-
portant event in the providence of God
shall come upon the Saints for which
they will not be prepared by the moni-
tions of his Spirit, if they are faithful
and pure before him.

TESTIFYING AND PREACHING.

BT ELDER G. 0. FERGUSON.

The religion of the Saints does not
consist chiefly in talking, but in doing.
Nevertheless talking is necessary, and
when dictated by the Spirit of God is
the means of doing good. It is said of
Tesus Christ that he spake as never
man spake. It was the instructions he

gave and the doctrines which he taught
that enabled his disciples to lay hold of
the plan of salvation and teach it to the
world at large. It was through the
foolishness of preaching that the an-
cients became acquainted with the Gos-
pel, and it has been chiefly bj the i

Digitized by

TESTIFYING AND PBEACHINO,

means that the principles of eternal
truth have been spread abroad in this
dispensation.

With regard to testimony, we are told
that the testimony of the Saints will
judge the world ; and this is one grand
reason why the members of the Church,
male and female, have it as a duty in-
cumbent upon them to bear testimony
to the work of God. It follows as a
matter of course that in the discharge
of this duty we should be thoroughly
in earnest, and our earnestness ought to
appear both in word and deed.

There are some who are quite sincere,
but who bear their testimony with so
little force that to suppose the world was
going to be judged by it would be the
last of our thoughts. It is not enough,
therefore, that we feel our own earnest-
ness: we ought as far as possible to
make others reel it ; and if we live our
religion, we shall accomplish this ; for
our testimonies will be dictated by the
Spirit, and those around are bound to
feel its force. The testimonies of some
are often weakened in force by a lurking
dread that they may fall away from the
Church, and that then those testimonies
would be thrown in their teeth. But
this is the very thing which will bring
about the catastrophe ; for the fearful
and unbelieving are the very ones that
must fall, while, on the other hand, the
Saint who honestly and fearlessly testi-
fies to what he knows (leaving after-
events to take care of themselves,) will
overcome by the word of his testimony.

Some, again, who have as strong a
testimony as others of their brethren,
retrain from testifying altogether. This
is decidedly wrong. If we feel thank-
ful for the little testimonv we have, and
use it well, the Lord will give us more ;
and if we use that well, he will con-
tinue to add line upon line, till by-and-
bjr we shall take our places among the
mighty. Therefore, if a Saint has even
a Relief that this is the Church and
kingdom of God, let him boldly proclaim
bis belief and act up to it, and God will
give him a stronger testimony : he will
Be able to sav 1 know ; " and this
knowledge will be as an anchor to the
soul, sure and stedfast. It will hold
him firm and steady, while unbelievers
are being driven to- and -fro by every
-wind of doctrine. To testify presup-
poses that the party testifying has a

clear and definite knowledge of the truth
of that which he affirms; but it does'
not involve either the ability or the'
authority to teach; and therefore,
although every member of the Church
of Christ is necessarily a witness, it is
only those holding the Priesthood who
are by right expounders of the doctrines,
and, by authority, administrators of the
ordinances of the Gospel. In the ordi-
nary intercourse of life, however, the
members do teach as well as testify :
they warn their neighbours, and are
expressly required so to do ; and very
many even of the sisters are eloquent
and powerful as they make known the
purposes of God to those around them.

To this extent every member of the
Church is sent to be a preacher of right-
eousness; but in the public meetings
of the Church, teaching, reproving,
criticising the conduct of the Saints, &c,
devolve upon the presiding authorities ;
and anv man holding the Priesthood
who, without the sanction of the Pre-
siding Elder, takes it upon himself to
whip his brethren, is decidedly out of
order. When rebuke comes through
the proper channel, it wounds, but heals
at the same time ; but if it comes from
a wrong quarter, it makes a wound and
leaves it open.

One grand duty of the Priesthood is
to preach the Gospel in its fulness. We
have seen that a man may testify with- ■
out being able to preach ; and if we £o '
to the sectarian churches, we shall find
many who can preach, but cannot testify.
This should not be so in the Church oi
Christ. Every preacher should have a
testimony, or to-day his face will be
Z ion ward, and to-morrow he will have
turned his back upon it.

When a trained speaker has to bring
a matter before the world, the first thing,
he does is to make himself acquainted
with it. He conducts his inquirers'
according to the principles or rules of
logic. When he arrives at a definite '
conclusion, he then draws from the re-
sources of rhetoric : he arranges in his
own mind the order in which he will
bring forward the different parts of his
discourse, and then he is ready for ac-
tion. Now, logic is undoubtedly a
guide to the reasoning powers, but
it is not an exclusive test of truth. It
cannot go one step deeper than the'
assumption upon which a line of argu-

720 piSTOBY OP

ment is based. That assumption may
be true, but it is often false ; and when
neither logic nor the logician can deter-
mine which, then syllogising is mere
building on the sand. Therefore it is
well for us that the Lord does not arm
the messenger of salvation with sophistry,
but with truth, because those who have
the truth and the ability to apply it
can at once discern the specious false-
hoods of dishonest claptrap, and send
conviction and remorse into the hearts
of those who thought to confound them.
Witness the answers of Christ to the
Scribes and Pharisees, and see also the
admirable handling of Zeezrom, the
lawyer, by Amulek (Book of Mormon,
pars. 239-40).

JOSEPH SMITH.

Let no one suppose, however, that
the mere profession of truth enables
men to use this power. They must, as
before stated, have the ability to apply
it. Now, the Lord's mode of imparting
this ability is through the gift of the
Holy Ghost ; and the Holy Ghost leads
men into truth without the noise and
clamour of debate, wherein men gene-
rally lose the very truths they are
debating about, and get the spirit of the
Devil, which causes them to hate and
often to destroy, each other. If the
Saints would testify with power, or the
Priesthood preach with effect, they most
be earnest in their work, and so lire
that the good Spirit will dictate then
continually.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 706.)

A Presidential election was recently
held on board the Osprey, and the result
was as follows : — ,

Joseph Smith, 65 gentlemen, and 6 ladies-
Henry Clay, 27 „ „ 3 „
VanBuren, 12 ,, „ „

Friday, 31.— "State of Illinois, )

City of Nauvoo, j 83>
May 31, 1844.

Then and there personally appeared
before me, Joseph Smith, Mayor of the
City of Nauvoo, the undersigned H. T.
Hugins, of Burlington, Iowa Territory,
and made solemn oath that Thomas B.
Johnson did, on the 30th day of May,
1844, declare in his presence that he
inteuded to bring dragoons and troops of
the United States from Iowa Territory
into this city, for the purpose of resisting
the authority and power of the Municipal
Court of said city, and that he should
disregard entirely the authority of said
court, and that he deemed the authority
of said court of no effect. Deponent
further states that said Johnson, in his
said conversation, had reference to the
case of Jeremiah Smith, which had been
decided by said court.

EL T. Hugins.
Subscribed and sworn to before me,
this 31st day of May, 1844,

Wm. W. Phelps, Clerk M. C."

Upon the foregoing affidavit, I issued
a capias to arrest T. B. Johnson for
threatening the peace of the city with

United States dragoons. At 10 i
called at my office. At 1 p.m., called
to see sister Richards, who was sick.
I administered to her the laying on of
hands, when she felt better. After-
noon, I attended General Council, when
brother Emmett made his report. Bode
out in the evening to Van Orden's, and
paid him $100. Two or three Indians
staid in the hall all night.

Saturday, June 1. At home. Sons
gentle showers.

At one, p.m., I rode out with Dr.
Richards and P. Rockwell Called
on Davis at the Boat. Paid Manhard
$90. Met George J. Adams, and paid
him $50. Then went to John P.
Greene's, and paid him and another
brother $200. Drank a glass of beer
at Moessers. Called at William Clay-
ton's, while Dr. Richards and O. P.
Rockwell called at the Doctor's new-
house. Returned home at 4$ p.m.

At 8 p.m., Peter Maughan. John
Saunders, and Jacob Peart called at
Dr. Richards' to consult about a coal-
bed on Rock River. I suggested thai
it would be profitable to employ the
Maid of Iowa in the business of carrying
the coal, &c. ; and all approved of this
plan.

President B. Young and Elder JToba
E. Page held a Conference in Pitts-
burgh.

- Digitized by Google

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

721

I received the following letter : —
" Boston, May 9th, 1844.

My dear Sir, — Being so closely con-
fined in the Post-office in this city, where
I have been but a short time, I have not,
before this morning, been aware that you
had petitioned Congress in relation to
raising a military force to protect our
Southern Frontier.

My purpose in addressing you is to
offer my services, either in military or
civil duty, as I am so much confined that
my health must suffer if I remain a great
length of time.

If I can make myself known to you by
reputation, which I think possible, I have
every confidence, if in your power, you
will favour my wishes.

At any rate, 1 hope you will write me
at your earliest convenience upon receipt
of this.

I was born in Peacham, Vermont,
October 14th, 1813. My father is Col.
Joel Walker, now of Belvidere, Illinois.
Hon. E. Peck, of Springfield, Illinois, is
my brother-in-law. I was in the mercan-
tile business in Chicago from 1836 to '39,
(one of the firm of King, Walker, & Co.-,)
since which time I have been here, with
the exception of a year ; have been in
the military since the age of 16, and am
considered somewhat proficient, having
devoted much attention to the study of
its principles, and an ardent love for the
art. I have received a good academical
and mercantile education ; and if there is
in your place anything which you think
would be for our mutual advantage,
I am yours respectfully,

Joel Hamilton Walker.
Gen. Joseph Smith, Nauvoo."
I replied as follows : —

"Nauvoo, 111., June 1st, 1844.
Sir,— Yours of May 9th is before me,
and according to my custom I answer off
hand. I have not yet ascertained whether
Congress will, by special act, authorize
me to protect our beloved country. If it
should, I have not a doubt but your
services could be agreeably used.

As to what you could do in Nauvoo, I
am Vinable to say. Gentlemen with a
small capital, or a large one, can easily
employ it to good advantage, our city is
so rapidly improving.

Truth, virtue, and honour, combined
with energy and industry, pave the way
to exaltation, glory, and bliss.

Respectfully, I have the honour to be
Your obedient servant,

Joseph Smith.
Joel Hamilton Walker,

Boston, Mass."
A Conference was held at Kalamazoo,

Michigan. Present, W. Woodruff, Geo.
A. Smith, of the Twelve ; S. Bent, C.
C. Rich, and* D. Fullmer, of the Hign
Council ; also 5 High Priests, 8 Seventies,
14 Elders, 2 Priests, and 1 Deacon.
Elder W. Woodruff presided. Seven
Branches were represented, containing
126 members, 15 Ekiers, 4 Priests, I
Teacher, and 2 Deacons. Two Elders
were ordained; also one Priest and
one Teachor.

A Conference was held at Alquina,
Fayette Co., Indiana. Elder Amasa
Lyman presided. 5 High Priests, 2
Seventies, and 4 Elders present.

Sunday, 2. At home. Pleasant day.
A Conference was held in Glasgow,
Scotland, representing 1,018 members,
including 1 High Priest, 30 Elders, 46
Priests, 36 Teachers, and 20 Deacons.

Monday, 3. At home. Received the
following letter : —

"Burlington, Iowa, June 2nd, 1844.
Friend Smith, — I have just received
intimation that there is a project on foot
here to visit Nauvoo with a body of from
five to six hundred armed men for the
purpose of liberating Doctor Hickock,
who it is stated is confined in your prison.
I, as a friend to your society, consider it
my duty to make you aware of the danger
you may be in, that you may be prepared
to meet them. I think it best to keen
my name from you ; for were it knowp.
here that I had given notice of their pro-
ceedings, it would be unsafe for me to
remain. Do not think it a humbug, and
treat it lightly ; but prepare yourselves
for the coming storm. Prom what I can
learn, thev intend going on the next boat.
I hope this may reach you in time.
I am, with respect, yonr friend,
Horace.

Rode out on the hill about 9 a.m.
Municipal Court sat. I was not
present. The appealed cases of Augus-
tin Spencer, C. L. Higbee. C. A. Foster,
and ft. D. Foster came up ; but as they
failed to appear, the cases were referred
back to the court below.

At 5 p.m., I read German with
Alexander Neibaur.

President B. Young left Pittsburgh,
and preached in the evening to an
attentive congregation in Old Britain.
Tuesday, 4. At home.
Arthur Morrison and Pulaski Cahoon
proposed to give $100 per month for
the use of the Maid of Iowa. Made
out their own bonds with their own
security ; but I would not receive them.

Digitized by CjOOQLC

722

EDITORIAL.

In the afternoon I* went out to my
farm, and accidentally broke the whip-
pletrec of my buggy.

Wrote the following letter to Mr.
Tewkesbury, Boston : —

44 Nauvoo, Illinois, June 4th, 1844.
Sir, — We understand that you have
"been cut off from the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints ; and feeling
an ardent desire for the salvation of the
souls of men, we take pleasure in feeling
aftt t you ; and therefore would, in the
sincerity of men of God, advise you to be
re-baptized by Elder Nickerson, one of
the servants of God, that you may again
receive the sweet influences of the Holy
Ghost, and enjoy the fellowship of the
Saints,

The law of God requires it, and you
cannot be .too good. Patience is heavenly,
obedience is noble, forgiveness is merci-
ful, and exaltation is godly ; and he that
holds out faithful to the end shall in no-
wise lose his reg ard. A good man will
endure all things to honour Christ, and
even dispose of the whole world, and all
in it, to save his soul. Grace for grace is

a heavenly decree, aud union is power *
where wisdom guides,

Ilespectfully,
Joseph Smith.
Hyrum Smith."
The Municipal Court issued an exe-
cution against Francis M. Higbee for
$36,26$ for costs incurred on Sth May
last.

At 6 p.m., I was in counsel with
Elders John Taylor, Hyrum Smith,
Willard Richards, Almon W. Babbitt,
Lucien Woodworth, and William W.
Phelps, on the propriety of prosecuting
the Laws and Fosters for perjury,
slander, Sec. Counselled Taylor to go
on with a prosecution in behalf of Maria
Lawrence. I concluded to go to Quincy
with Taylor, and gave up my bonds of
guardianship as administrator of the
Lawrence estate.

Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds Gaboon
are so anxious to get property, they
will all flat out as soon as the Te
is completed and the faith of the
ceases from them, &c.

At 7 p.m., I walked
Woodworth.

out with Lucien

(To 6a continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAB.

Saturday, November 9, 1861.
IGNORANCE AND KNOWLEDGE.

It is an old saying of the poet's, that 44 where ignorance is bliss, it's folly to be
wise." To call in question the truth of this time-worn adage is not our object.
Wlicre ignorance is bliss, in the name of all that's true let that bliss remain,
unless, perchance, a little wisdom can increase it, by opening to its possessor the
road that leads to bliss of a higher order and more permanent character.

In many parts of the country, both in rural and manufacturing districts, large
numbers of persons may yet be found, even in this, the boasted nineteenth
century, who are not only ignorant of the rudiments of the commonest sciences,
but are totally incapable of either reading, writing, or making the simplest arith-
metical calculation. To this class, it is to be feared, even the Saints add their
quota. Much of their time, it is true, may have been engrossed in labouring for
the " bread which perishetb," and but a comparatively small share of either time
or means or opportunity may have been at their disposal for aught else but the
procurement of the necessaries of life. Still the lamentable fact remains no less &
fact, that ignorance of the simplest rudiments of knowledge does exist to a great
extent where 44 ignorance " is not 44 bliss," and wisdom not 44 folly." ^^T^

Digitized by ViOOQLC

SDITOBIAL.

723

It is an old saying that "Poverty is no disgrace." To -the absolute truism of
this we demur. It lacks an essential condition. It is " not a disgrace " where
it is unavoidable — where it is the result of misfortune, or where it is not the
fruit of the person's own wilful neglect of the proper means to prevent it. And
so we would say concerning ignorance. No poverty can be worse than ignorance. ,
Yet ignorance is no disgrace to the person who has had do opportunity of gain-
ing knowledge ; but where it is the result of wilful neglect of opportunities for
the acquirement of knowledge, it is a disgrace, and a disgrace, too, of the lowest
kind, because of the manifold evils cf various kinds and degrees to which it
unwittingly opens the door.

Some, indeed, fancy that they are too old to learn. But this is a mistake.
None are too old to learn. The more ignorant a man is, the more necessary it
is that he should begin to learn ; and that very necessity should stimulate him to
use every means by which he would be enabled to' increase his small store of
knowledge ; and that not merely for his own sake, but also for the sake of those
who may own him father, and look to him for both precept and example. If
any man wishes to acquire any species of knowledge, he must learn it. It will not
come to him without an effort on his part to acquire it. Books must be read
and understood ; facts must be stored up in the mind, and remembered ; the
mind must be open to observation and reflection ; the intellect must be tasked,
the judgment exercised, and every accessible means employed for the attainment
of the object desired. Obstacles may beset the path of the searcher after truth ;
difficulties may stand in tho way of his " pursuit of knowledge ;" but determina-
tion and perseverance, with a right spirit, will conquer them all, and crown his
efforts with success.

Let us take for an example our ever- illustrious Prophet, Seer, and Revelator,
Joseph Smith. He was originally a poor, unlettered, comparatively ignorant
ploughboy ; but, by dint of praiseworthy self-exertion, aided by the Spirit of
Truth— the Spirit of Eim who is ever ready and willing to help all who strive to
help themselves, by the means He places in their possession or within their reach,
he (Joseph) became a well-informed, intelligent, wise man, competent to teach
many of those who, self- inflated with their own slender stock of intelligence,
stood aghast at the wonderful progress which the unlettered ploughboy had so
rapidly made in his " knowledge of men and things."

We wish to encourage in all the Saints, young and old, the acquirement of
every obtainable speoies of useful knowledge, rudimentary and advanced,
scientific and theological, theoretical and practical. " All truth " is the broadest
and best definition we can give of " Mormonism," or the Gospel; and consequently,
the wiser a man is, the better " Mormon," or Saint, he is able to become. We
do not believe, and are therefore unwilling to endorse the sentiment that
u knowledge is a dangerous thing, and calculated to foster conceit." No, no !
49 A little knowledge " may be a " dangerous thing, when that little is hugged
with exclusive fondness to the inflated bosom of its possessor, and is taken for
more than its real worth. The poet says —

The spirit of which is, that when a man has obtained a shallow smattering of
knowledge, of a general or superficial character, and vainly fancies himself the
possessor of vast wisdom, he is mistaken : it tends in such a case to foster that
egotistic self-conceit which, to a well-balanced mind more fully informed, is so

"A little knowledge is a dangerous thing :
Drink deep, or taste not the Pierian spring."

724

EDITORIAL.

repugnant and objectionable. The more a sensible man knows, the more he sees
his own deficiencies and littleness, his many imperfections and comparative
ignorance. Knowledge will hurt no man; it tends to inflate or injure none. The
man who passes for a wiseacre ma*y be self-conceited ; but his vanity is not the
result of his intelligence, but the want of it. All truth is from God — all spiritual
light is from the " Father of lights " — the " Sun of righteousness," while igno-
rance is the absence of that light, or the non-reception of it in the mind. Truth
in itself leads to good ; knowledge tends to virtue, holiness, purity, and every-
thing that is Godlike, or Divine, because that is its origin, nature, and
character.

There are, it is to be feared, too many of the Saints who, either from inability or
indisposition, fail to read the standard works of the Church, such as the Book of
Mormon, the Book of Doctrine and Covenants, Journal of Discourses. Star, Sec;,
and thereby continue from time to time ignorant of many vital principles of Gos-
pel truth which it is their peculiar privilege, as Saints, to know and enjoy. Some
unwarrantably neglect to use the means which in such rich abundance surround
them for their own mental and spiritual improvement, while others, by their own
folly and want of discretion, abuse them, and ultimately, in consequence, lose
them. So it is also with respect to all varieties of secular knowledge.

In these days of public free libraries and other easily- accessible means for the
diffusion of useful knowledge, it is really a disgrace to, at any rate, young Saints
to remain ignorant, who are able to avail themselves of the boon which is thus
brought as it were so near to their hand. While in these Gentile lands, it is wise
to make judicious use of every advantage afforded them of gaining the information
and experience offered for their acceptance on such easy terms. A great deal of
useful knowledge can thus be had with comparatively little exertion, and put in a
small compass : it can be carried a long way with no difficulty or trouble, will
make its possessor no poorer, and will get no less in carrying.

It is the duty of all Presiding Elders to study the interests of their flock in all
respects, not neglecting their mental, moral, and spiritual improvement. They
should promote in their several fields of labour, or Branches of the Church,
wherever practicable, every means by which the members, especially the younger
portion, who hunger and thirst after truth, may be enabled to improve themselves
in every species of knowledge that would be beneficial to them as Saints of

All the truth we possess, all the knowledge we acquire, in this probation, should
undoubtedly be employed to a right, a just, and a holy purpose—our own
spiritual exaltation and the advancement of humankind — the welfare, progress,
and enhancement of our and their highest and best interests. " Onward ! —
ever onward!" should be the motto of every Saint, for it is that of even the
Gods themselves. It should be the watchword of every man and woman,
boy and girl, who professes or aspires to the name of Latter-day Saint.

" Arise and shine," is the Prophet's injunction to the Church, " for the glory of
the Lord is risen upon thee." Let us, then, Elders in Israel, as repositories of
the eternal truths of heaven — as reflectors of the light emanating from the Sun of
righteousness, rise in the majesty of our calling as servants of the Most High, and
let our light shine — the light of Gospel truth which we have received, so that
others, seeing our good works, may follow our example, and glorify, with us, our
Father who is in heaven. Rise, all ye upon whose shoulders rest the burden of the

God.

EDITOKIAL. 725

Priesthood, and spread far and wide in all directions those rays of intelligence
and knowledge which are destined to enlighten the whole of Adam's fallen
race ; disseminate far and wide those seeds of Divine truth which are predestined
to germinate and grow and ultimately cover the whole earth with blessings, and
thus render it a fit abode for countless thousands— yea, unnumbered millions,
yet unborn, of the offspring of our God.

Southampton Conference.-A Conference was held in Southampton on the
20th ult., at which were present on the stand-Of the Presidency of the Euro-
pean Mission, Elder Geo. Q. Cannon, of the Quorum of the Twelve ; District Pre-
sident, William Bramall ; Conference President, Eugene Henriod ;-each of them
Seventies: also Elder Mark Barnes, President of the Dorsetshire Conference ; and
Elder George Burgon, Travelling Elder. After the usual preliminaries of sing-

^Tt^ nltinSin80lemhp^aye^, Elder Brama11 made a few remarks; after'
which Elder Henriod read the Financial and Statistical Reports of the Conference,
showing a goodly increase in the numbers, some 46 having been baptized since
the 1st of January. He said there were good prospects of baptizing more. 86
had emigrated ; but he expected they would be able to make up that number by
the end of the year. In almost all the Branches in the Conference, he said, great
interest was manifested by the people in the principles of the Gospel; their
meetings, m-door and out-door, were well attended, and much good had been
done President Cannon then addressed the meeting upon the blessings result-
ing from obedience to the Gospel, and the brotherly and sisterly feeling existing
among the Saints, which, although he had travelled a good deal in foreign lands,
he had never yet found among any other people; also showing that this Church
is the nucleus of that great Latter-day Kingdom of which Prophets have long
foretold and shall yet fill the whole earth. He then presented the authorities
of the Church both in Zion and in these lands, who were all unanimously
sustained.

In the afternoon Elder Barnes addressed the meeting upon various points con-
nected with his own personal experience and the religion of the Latter-day
Saints; after which President Cannon spoke concerning the restoration of the
Priesthood to the earth in these last days, and the privileges accruing to man-
kind, in consequence; and referred to the troubles besetting the American nation
as examplee of tlfe judgments of God following those who wilfully reject his reve-
lations given through that Priesthood.

In the evening President Cannon again preached upon the principles of the
Gospel which are revealed anew to the world in these last days for the salvation
send exaltation of man, and comparing the Divine plan with those futile schemes
and systems which men have adopted for the regeneration of society, unaided by
the revelations of God. Elder Bramall then made a few remarks upon the
subject of the restoration of the Gospel in the latter times through angelic minis-
tration, as referred to by the Apcstle John in Rev. xiv. 8. At the conclusion of
Elder BramalPs speech, President Cannon again addressed the assembly, bearing
testimony to the principles of the Gospel and the mission of Joseph, and pointing
out the great benefit conferred upon the Saints by the payment of tithing, by
enabling the brethren to send out teams and provisions to assist (the poor to

726

C0BBE8P0NDENCB.

emigrate, and when they arrive in the Valleys of the Mountains by setting them
to work upon the Public Works.

The meetings were well attended during the day both by the Saints from the
country and friends, and peace and good order prevailed throughout the day.

On Monday, the 2 1st, 150 sat down to tea in Zion Chapel; after which, a
pleasant evening was spent by the Saints, when songs and recitations were given
by several brethren, sisters, and children. President Cannon occupied about
three-quarters-of-an-hour in addressing the meeting. The influences of the
Spirit were abundantly diffused among all present, and after a day's enjoyment
well spent, the most characteristic of which was the perfect harmony that
existed in all the arrangements and in the feelings of the Saints, the Conference
was brought to a close with a benediction by President Cannon.

We are indebted to the kindness of Elder Burgon for a full and accurate report
of the proceedings of the Conference, from which we have made the above
summary.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

LONDON CONFERENCE.

London, Oct. 20, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Knowing that you
are desirous to hear how the work of
the Lord is progressing in all parts of
the British Mission, it is with pleasure
I take up my pen at the present time
to give some information in relation to
the London Conference.

During the last three months we have
added 55 persona to our numbers by
baptism, and our prospects are good for
many more the next quarter. Our
meetings are well attended by strangers,
some ot whom once enjoyed the Spirit
of the Gospel, but, neglecting to live
their religion, were separated from us ;
and I hope soon to see them return into
the fold. We have been holding fast-
meetings through the Conference. They
have been well attended by the Saints,
and the Spirit of the Lord has been with
us and has increased amongst the
Saints. If nothing should hinder, the
prospects are good for a large emigra-
tion from this Conference tho next
season. The majority of the Saints are
doing all in their power themselves, and
my experience has taught me that such
get the Lord's help. Almost all would
go away the coming season, provided

they had the means. There are some
who have sufficient, but who have not
faith in the God of the Latter-day
Saints that he will provide for them ;
but when they become as poor as many
have done with like faith, rhey would
be glad to emigrate, (if they do not
apostatize) ; while those having faith
and works like the above, will have the
Spirit of God to be and abide with them ;
and, come weal or come woe, being the
children of the kingdom of God, they
obey his commandments and go to with
all their might to do all that is required
of them ; and the consequence is. their
faith is strong in the Lord and in his
promises, knowing that they will share
the blessings of the faithful, — nothing
doubting, because tljey have done
nothing wrong. Such will have the
Spirit of Zion, and their joy will in-
crease as the kingdom increases. Such
will be prepared for the troubles that
are coming upon the earth, under-
standing the signs of the coming of the
Son of man ; while those who are care-
less about emigration, &c, thinking the
Lord will save them here as well as.
where he has called them to go, will
possess more or less of the spirit of
Babylon, and must not be surprised if.
they partake of a portion of her plagues ;
for he has promised delivcrauce only to'
those who would obey bis commands.
The Gentile^itfeeliWejCfcQSto be

C0RHK8P0NDEXCB.

737

saved and get into the presence of God
■by faith and repentance, and they will
have just as good a claim in proportion
as those who believe in faith, repentance,
baptism, laying on of hands, &c, but
do not continue to obey. It may be
that the latter are waiting for some
great event to transpire — some mighty
miracle to be performed. The fulfil-
ment of the prophecies of the Prophet
Joseph in relation to the downfall of the
United States, and the deliverance of
the Saints from their enemies from
Nauvoo up to thepresent time, should be
sufficient ; for they are as great as any
that were performed in the days of the
children of Israel, and all they need to
make them appear so in the eyes of
this generation is time. Had they
taken place 2,000 years ago, they would
have been acknowledged as such. But
as it was with Pharoah and the
Egyptians, so it will be with the Gentile
nations. If the former could have been
assured that he was fighting against such
a powerful God, he never would have
persecuted the children of Israel as he
did ; neither would the Gentiles perse-
cute the Latter-day Saints as they do,
if they knew and were acquainted with
their God ; but they know him not,
neither will they search after him, and
consequently they will be destroyed as
those nations were who fought against
his people in days past. Pharoah and
the Egyptians worshipped gods of gold,
of beasts, birds, and reptiles ; but this
generation worships a god without body,
parts, or passions, and they will find
him, when they are in trouble, to have
no more power to save them than the
gods of the Egyptians had to save in
their day. *

It is very easy for the Saints if they
become careless and indifferent to lose
the spirit of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
They then have no God but the god of
the Gentiles to go to, and it is no time
to serve such a god. But they had
better humble themselves before the
Lord, and get the Spirit of the God of
Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, who
is a mighty God — mighty to save. It
is in him and in him only that the Saints
should put their trust ; and if there are
Any who are fortunate enough to have
houses or lands, flocks or herds, let
them prove themselves, sell all they
have, and gather out with the Saints of

the Most High, and prove to their
Heavenly Father that tney are willing
to trust him, that they may obtain all
things— even become heirs of God and
joint-heirs with Jesus Christ.

Brothers Brown, Lyman, Stayner,
Reynolds, and myself are all enjoying
good health, and wish to be kindly
remembered to you and all the brethren
in the Office. Ever praying for the
welfare and prosperity of the kingdom
of God. I remain your well-wishing
brother in the Gospel of peace,

W. C. Staikbs.

SHEFFIELD DISTRICT.

Sheffield, Oct. 24, 1861.

Dear Brother Cannon, — I write to let
you know that I returned to this Con-
ference on Saturday last, attended
meetings at Chesterfield on Sunday," and
had a very good time. There were quite
a number of strangers in attendance.

The Saints are feeling first-rate in
Sheffield, and we are baptizing a few
now and then. The Priesthood are
united, and arc faithful in warning the
people to repent of their sins and
embrace the truth. The Gospel has
been carried to many of the villages in
this vicinity, where we have hitherto
had no hold ; and in several places the
Elders have met with success, houses
have been opened, and many have been
constrained to lay aside their prejudice,
and look more favourably upon the
principles which we believe in and
preach. Good seed has been sown, and
may we not expect that it will bring
forth in due season P

Accounts from Bradford and Leeds
are favourable.

I have received a letter from brother
Welch, stating that in Hull everything
was moving on to his satisfaction,
excepting that labour was scarce, and
wages poor what a pity that the Saints
should pine for want of labour, when
there is so much of it to be done at
home, and the cry is "More labourers,"
" Goodwa«jes," while the cry here is, "No
work," " Half wages," " Poverty," and
" Distress." Brother Welch tells me
that on Sunday the 13th instant, there
were four persons baptized in Hull ;
that another had given in his name,
and that he believed much good would

Digitized by

728

8UMHABY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

result from the method they have taken
to invite the public to attend their
meetings.

My kind regards to the brethren in

the Office. May God bless you always,
is my prayer. Your brother in the
bonds of the covenant,

Joseph F. Smith.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

France. — The Paris correspondent of the
Times writes — The same uneasy feeling
which pervaded every class of society
towards the close of the year that preceded
the Italian war, and which was so abruptly
expressed in the Emperor's address to the
Austrian ambassador during the celebrated
letee of New Year's-day, is now again dis-
cernible. That feeling may be exaggerated,
but you meet with few people in society who
do not declare their conviction that the
peace of Europe will before long be again
put in peril. We hear rumours of propo-
sitions being made to Austria for the set-
tlement of some difficult and long-standing
questions in which she has deep interest.

Italy. — The brigands who have been in-,,
festing the country between Concello and
Nola have made proposals to the authorities
to surrender.

Turkey. — The insurgents have set fire to
the houses occupied by the Turks. The in-
habitants have fled for refuge, some to Tre-
bigne and others into the Austrian territory.

Servia. — The insurrection in the Herze-
govina is spreading. The insurgents from
Zubzi, with Montenegrins from Grahovo,
have invaded Schumla. The communica-
tions between Trebigne and Belgrade are
interrupted. The inhabitants are taking
refuge in the Austrian territory. On the
26th Oct. a bloody encounter took place
between the insurgents and the Turkish
troops, in which the latter sustained heavy
losses. The insurgents were advancing at
last dates.

China. — At last dates the Imperialists
had gained several important successes over
the rebels. In addition to their successes
on the Yang-tse, they have recovered the
important city of Tsinchow, in Kwansgi.
The new Emperor of China is only seven
years old.

South Africa. — Furious internecine wars
were still going, on between the native
tribes. There had been a terrible massacre
in No Man's Land, Tebu, a chief of the
Amabacas, surprised a number of Hotten-
tots under the chief of Fodo. The Hottentots
fought bravely, but Tebu's people fired their
huts, and upwards of 100 persqns, including
many women and children, perished.

America. — Despatches from Richmond
state that the steamer Nashville had run
the blockade of Charleston on the 12th of

October, with ex-Senator Mason as Minister
to England, and John Slidell as Minister to
France. This announcement has caused
great indignation in the North. The Con-
federates had evacuated Vienna, destroying
the railroad, and had fallen back, with the
entire column, to Fairfax Court House.
Large reinforcements have gone to 'Ken-
tucky, where a battle was imminent. The
navigation of the Potomac is almost closed
by batteries. There had been two days
fighting at Harper's Ferry, the result of
which was favourable to the Federals. The
Confederate force has attacked Wilson's
Zouaves at Santa Ross Island. The South-
ern account states that they spiked the
Federal guns, destroyed the camp equipage,
and took a number of prisoners. Large
quantities of Northern property have been
confiscated to the South, including two slave
estates owned in New York and Boston.
The Tribune's Washington correspondent
says the Government are arranging the
erection of permanent barracks near Wash-
ington for 60,000 men. Fremont has for-
bidden the forwarding of telegraphic reports
of Missouri war movements. Advices from
the Arizona report that the Secession move-
ment is on the Increase. Fort Stanton,
situate in the Sacramento Mountains, 146
miles north-west of the Mestillon, is said to
have been abandoned by the Federal troops.
The Confederates had determined to station
ten companies in the Territory. In a letter
from Dr. Russell, the Times 1 correspondent,
dated Washington, Oct. 9th, the following
significant •passage occurs .- — " What a
winter there is before the dwellers in these
lands ! But, gloomy as it may be for the
North, the prospect for the agricultural
people in the South is far worse. There is
the constant fear of arson and murder, con-,
spiracy, uprisings, and insurrections, which
must come with the long winter-nights to
the aged and infirm, who will be the sole
dwellers in lone country houses in great
woods, and in distant farmhouses. There
is the want of warm clothing. Even in the
North there is a scarcity of blankets, and
the Sanitary Commissioners are appealing
to the charitable for contributions. There
will be ateo the deprivation of luxuries,
almost necessaries, such as tea and coffee.
Fresh provisions will not be generally pro-
curable: in fact, the enumeration of the

Digitized by

Google

VARIETIES.

729

miseries of this civil war would exhaust the
fire and touch the heart of a prophet." It
is reported from Missouri tnat the Con-
federates had burned the Big River bridge.
General Price has made a stand 25 miles
from Osceola with 20,000 troops. General
Fremont is preparing to lay a pontoon
bridge across the Osago river for the purpose
of crossing and encountering General Price.
The Federals had an engagement with the
Confederates near Harper's Ferry, resulting

in the retreat of the Confederates with the
loss of one gun. No killed. It was reported
that the Confederates had renewed the
attack, and that the fighting was still con-
tinuing.

Mexico. — The following telegram was
posted at the Underwriters Rooms.- —
44 Urquiza has been completely defeated,
having lost his artillery, ammunition wag-
gons, and 1,600 prisoners. He has been
compelled to fall back."

VARIETIES.

Chesnut trees are known to live nine hundred years, lime trees have attained six
hundred years in France, and birches are supposed to be equally durable.

Nature has strange ways of doing the most beautiful things. Out of the oozy earth,
the mud and rain of early spring, come the most delicate flowers, their white leaves born
out of the dirt, as unsoiled and pure as if they had bloomed in the garden of Paradise.

Tue Agapemone, or Abode of Love. — " I was travelling in the early part of this
summer in some of the southern counties of England, when business called me into Somer-
setshire, near to the " Agapemone," occupied by the followers of Mr. Prince, called the
44 Princeites." My curiosity prompted me to see and learn something definite of a people
concerning whom many peculiar reports have been circulated. In journeying towards the
Agapemone, we saw a man working in a garden, who was recognised by a friend with me
as one of the Princeites, for they are particularized by wearing no hair on the face — each
mile being required to thus (as one of many instances,) mortify the flesh, and put away
pride. I spoke to him ; and upon inquiring if we could learn something of the principles
they advocated, he told me he was a mouthpiece of God, and God speaking through him
said, 44 You do not want the truth ; you do not want to know God." My first impression
may be judged. He told me that he had 44 seen Jesus Christ, and ate and drank with
him in the flesh." I wondered! 44 Why," said he, as an argument, 44 Behold, the man
whose name is the Branch." I replied that the Scripture referred me to the 44 root of
Jesse," and could not depend on a branch alone ; but, says he, 44 Behold the tabernacle of
God is with men." I could hardly believe such was the case. I said, 44 Either you or the
Apostle John must be in error. Prior to that event transpiring, 44 the first heaven and the
first earth" will pass away, and the 44 New Jerusalem" will come 44 down from God out of
heaven." Some little conversation passed between us, when, finding his dogmas could not
be forced upon us, he went unceremoniously away, as my friend said, more like a demon
than a Christian. We at last reached the Agapemone, situated in the village of Charlinch,
five miles from Bridgewater, Somerset. They believe in their leader, 44 Brother Prince," being
the tabernacle in which Jesus Christ acts, modestly asserting that he is Jesus Christ in the
flesh. The heaven of this Christ contains about five or six acres of land, surrounded by a
wall nine or ten feet high, inside of which stands a small mansion — 44 head quarters," also a
chapel or room for diversion. On the top of the road end of the chapel is fixed aflag-staft,
with a rampant lion at its base. There was floating on the breeze a white silk flag, edged
inside by a border, representing the rose and honeysuckle entwined. In the centre of this
flag, written in gold, was 44 Behold the tabernacle of God is with men." He (Mr. P. ) main-
tains his position, financially, by speculating as a farmer in the parishes around, employ-
ing his poor converts on those farms, grounds, &c., while his rich followers, having thrown
a few thousands of pounds into his treasury, may have their portion of his heaven and his
blessing without working, having the poor ones to perform the varied kinds of labour.
There are also archery grounds and many other means for recreation. No strangers were
allowed inside the walls ; but 1 happened to arrive at a fortunate time, just as Mr. Prince
was going for a ride in his barouche drawn by two fine horses. He is apparently about 55
years of age, and as white and religious-looking as a man could be. The gates were
thrown open, and he passed out amid the reverential bows of the inmates. I should judge
there were about 12 males and 16 females, all dressed without the least regard to present
fashions. No small children were there, and I was informed no babes were born, a doctor
being kept ! If any convert dies, he or she has not the true faith. All the faithful will live
there for ever ! The converts are very few, though some 14 years have passed away since
Mr. Prince set forth those peculiar claims. He has but very few more than 50 followers,
though that number are bound by his unmeasured influence." — W. Fuller.

Digitized by

730 POETRY.— LIBT OP DEBTS. ADDB188. DEATH.

FOE TRY.

THE HOLY SPIRIT. I

Celestial gift to Saints on earth! Things arererealed unta otir tight

Source of pure Joy a«d peace ! Which language hath not takL

In thy sweet fellowship we find E>n by thj ai Jw Wbs renewe*V

From every care release. WbUejoiiroeyWiAere below :

When nnder thy blest influence what a boon to humble souls

Our faith and hop* are strong Thy glorious gifts to know !

We then can overcome the world, May tfeyWegfr^ faemj Wr ^:,

And sing th» conqueror's song. Continue tojtMnfuar 'J

And when thou'lightest up the mind, Then will be hastened on the day

What glories we behold ! Of universal peace.

London. Wiilliam Smm.

LIST OF DEBT3 DUE FOB BOOKS, .STABS, &c, B7 THE BEVERAJj C0KFE3BHCE8,
AND OTHEBS, FOB THE QUABTEB ENDING SEPT. 30, 1861.

pours asvCB.

: Newcdstle-on-Tyne
-Dublin
Durham
Herefords-Mre-
Shropshire ...
Worcestershire
Leicestershire
Nottingham
Carlisle
Belfast
Reading ...
Monmouthshire
'Flintshire ...
fJtaft'ord shire
' Bradford ...
Dundee

Channel Islands
Denbighshire
West Glamorgan
Mancho^iar
LTauelly ..*
Xands End..,
Liverpool ...
Norwich ...
Cheltenham

W. Dallin
R. Brown
S. Hargravcs
L. Bowen
\V. Hop wood
W. Thurgood
A. Qrme
J. 1). Chase
HAV.Barnett
T. Crawley
G. Reed ...
R. Palmer...
E. Price ...
E. Cliff ...
S.H. B.Smith
\V. S. Baxter
P. Dels Mare
H» £vnns ...
J. Griffiths..,
W. H. Dame
D. M. Davies
W. H. Pitts
J.C. Graham
R. Bentley..,
W. G. Smith

£ s. d.
218 4
35 41

6 7 7
1213 4

210 4\
214 7
2 5

2 2

013 8
73 3 5j

111 4
916 7
1 15 11
6 5

112 9
16 8 2*

015 4
H6i
4 510
015 8J

3 310J

014 2

7 2 0J
611 11
614 1}

Carried forward ...

...£20210 5*

CDtfPKftBVCS.

Brot. fwd.
South

Wiltshire ...

Carnarvonshire

East Glamorgan

Lincolnshire

Derbyshire...

Cardiff

London

Pembrokeshire
Birmingham
Dorsetshire
Bedfordshire
Glasgow ...
Edinburgh ...
Preston
Son

Australian ...
Scandinavian
Cape of Good Hope
East India...
San Francisco

Total

R. Hodgert
T. O. King..
R. Evans ..
T. W. Recs
J. Lindsay..
A. Nelson ..
G.G. By water
W.C.SUlaW
J. GibbtJJL
W. G. M05f
M. Bar net
J. Bull

J.Needha*

T. Ford ..
J. Vah Cott
G. Ruck

£ s. <L

20210 51
11610

017 l\

Oil 9

11 31

3 4 l|
5 8 9

4 e

1 1.

3C613 71

a 3 at

98 3 S
3 1 11
106 5 6f

..£78218 6}

Addhbss.— William Thurgood, care of Mr. R. Holt, St. Clement's Square, St John's, Worcester.

Died— Rider William Lindsay, while employed ia a coal-pit at Kilmarnock, Scotland, on the 17th Instant*
"He was killed instantaneously by a heavy stone falling upon him from the root He has left . a wi£
and eight children to lament his loss. Brother Lindsay was a faithful man and much respected by aft
who knew him.

CONTENTS.

.Foreknowledge 715 Staines and Smith « .. . 90

Testifying and Preaching - 718 Summary of News and Passing Events.

History of Joseph Smith 720 Varieties ~ .. 7"»

Editorial.— Igr.orance and Knowledge—South- Poetry.— " The He ly Spirit" .. M TSt

ampton Conference 723 List of Debts . 73a

Correspondence.— England : Letters from Klders Address.— Death «, _ Ttt

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 42, ISLIN< I ON*.

LONDON : :
fOU SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DEPOT, 30. FLORENCE STREET, GEO; - *T*HKI.

1SL1NGIOX; AND ALL BOOK SELL!* Its, JT;

- isftL' i.'^ ;

Digitized by Goc f\".. ? .

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

U A noiitihaU eonu ovtntotheendtof the earth; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations: he wtt
plead with aUJUeh ; he uAUfive thorn that are wicked to the tword, taUh the XorA M — Jsumiah.

Kd. J 17, Vol. XXm. Saturday, Nov. 23, 1861. Price One Penny.

"TRY THE SPIRITS A KEY TO SPIRITISM.

BY ELDER W. O. HILLS*

There is a constant antagonism
between the principles of truth and the
doctrines of error. There is perpetual
opposition between the influence and
power which reveal truth and accom-
pany its dissemination to the ignorant
world, and those spirits and beings
which keep the human mind enveloped
in mental darkness. But failing to re-
tard the progress of truth, these in-
variably so oppose and imitate it, that
the uninformed mind is very liable to be
deceived, and thus be kept in bondage
by the degenerating chains of error.

It is worthy of remark, and must be
well known to every reader of the
Bible, that whenever in the world's
history the Lord has been pleased to
manifest his power by sending forth his
angels, and calling men, to ordain them
Prophets and Apostles, that he might
reveal saving truth for the benefit of
humanity, other and evil spirits have
influenced or inspired men willing to
become subject to them. When, through
obedience to Heaven's truth, the bles-
sings of the Holy Ghost have been en*
loyed, and communication between
heaven and earth again established, the
spirits of evil, associated with the Devil
. when rebellion surrounded -4Mb
throne, began to communicate with
mortals and reveal singular and mys-
terious things j and they manifest power

and ability calculated to deceive the
uninformed and susceptible witnesses.

This was eminently so in the days
of Jesus. Previous to his appearing
among men, the world had been lulled
to sleep in the cradle of carnal security.
They had apostatized from God, had
no communication with heaven, had
lost the characteristics of God's people,
and in the midst of darkness and silence
they depended upon the learning of
their raobies, doctors, lawyers, and
scribes. They showed no signs of power
superior to the most debased schemes
of worship : " each one turned to his own
way." Indeed, so little of heavenly
power and gifts was seen, and so long
were they thus wandering as their
feeble instincts led them, that a sect
called the Sadduoees arose and chal-
lenged the most learned and devout to
prove that there was either angel, spirit, c
or resurrection. But when the forerun-
ner, John, was endowed and instructed
from heaven to lift up his warning
voice and announce tne important
tidings that Messiah was in their midst*
and introduced the gifted personage to
them, through means unmistakable to
his spiritual and natural senses, oppo-
sition was again raised against the man
of God, and his influence overcome by
the instigation of the powers of dark-
ness. And when Jesus appeared, im-

Digitized by Google

" TBY THB 8PIBITS," ETC.

parting life, light, and blessings to
men, alleviating the distresses and
healing tho diseases of suffering human-
ity, endowing his disciples with power
to promulgate the truth, overcome dis-
eases, and do many mighty miracles,
the Prince of Evil not only entered the'
tabernacles of mortals, but many were
possessed of the spirit of divination, of
soothsaying, and exorcism, and became
as guides or oracles to teach and show
men the ways of life. Saint Paul, on
one occasion, had to complain and warn
the disciples of Jesus — 44 For such are
false apostles, deceitful workers, trans-
forming themselves into tho apostles of
Christ. And no marvel; for Satan
himself is transformed into an angel Of
light. Therefore it is no great thing if
his ministers also be transformed as the
the ministers of righteousness, whose
end shall be according to their
works." (2 Corinthians xi. 13—15.)
Thus we perceive that when God
established his Church or kingdom, and
gave unto his subjects holy powers and
heavenly communication suited to the
condition of men, the Devil, conspiring
against the truth, placed in juxta-
position his inspired men and women,
his spirits of divination, sorceries, and
manifestations. Saint John the Apostle
felt the force of such opposition, saw
the inroads attempted on the Church,
and knew the damning results to the
world at large ; and in his firm, yet
affectionate warnings, expresses himself
chus — " Beloved, believe not every
spirit, but try the spirits, whether they
are of God; because many false pro-
phets are gone out into the world."
(1 John iv. 1.)

It is a factnotorious to every observ-
ing mind, that before Joseph Smith,
the youthful Prophet, announced to his
friends, in the truthful simplicity of his
young heart, that he had received a mes-
sage from heaven, and had a vision of
an angel, the whole world was without
spiritual communication ; the Christian
sects denied the existence or necessity
of spiritual gifts, and declared that the

Sowers of the Gospel, as anciently be-
eved in and enjoyed, were no longer
needed. They not only declared that
" the canon of Scripture is full," thai
man will no longer enjoy new revela-
tion, and that the day of miracles has long
since ceased, but they repudiated all

interference of heaven with earth,
bound the tongues of angels to silence,
confined their minds to the contempla-
tion of the uncertain " dead letter/*
and branded as fanatics and fools all
who would venture to assert that the
religion of Christ should be character-
ized now, as it was in the Apostles' days,
with power and progression from faith
to faith. Joseph announced what God
had done for him, and what tho angel
had expressed. But he was at once
persecuted, annoyed, and denounced as
an impostor. Yet their contumely and
vituperation did not annul his sayings,
nor destroy the facts as they occurred.
He wondered at their incredulity when
he merely stated what he saw, heard,
and felt so palpably.

In the course of a few years, however,
when his young mind was more en-
larged, and he knew more of God's pur-
poses, and of the nature of men and
things, he told the world who would
hear his words by the Spirit of pro-
phecy, that but a short time would
elapse, and there would be many spirit-
manifestations, remarkable and strange
occurrences, which would not only take
them by surprise, but they would not be
able to deny that such manifestations
actually existed. Thousands would be
deceived and would run after them,
and millions would be compelled
to acknowledge supernatural or
spirit-influences. While they denied
the truth of his revelations, and deemed
his authority as merely presumption,
they would believe in the existence of
spirits, and be led astray by their false
revelations. Subsequent events proved
the veracity of his words. On the very
land where God had conversed with
him, and angels had conferred the
authority of the Priesthood to bring in
the " dispensation of the fulness of
times," — on the soil of America, in the
midst of hundreds of conflicting opinions^
table-moving, spirit-rapping, writing,
speaking, and acting mediums, in their
multifarious duties and modes, show
forth their wonderous coummunioations
and powers. Questions are propounded
and answered, mysteries explained,
doctrines taught, healings effected,
tongues spoken and interpreted,
churches established, newspapers
edited* and conducted, and volumes of
revelations and supposed principles,

Digitized by

"tby thi spibits," etc.

749

dictated by unseen, supernatural, spirit-
influences. Inspired by these powers
the most profound philosophical ques-
tions are discussed, as well as the most
absurd conceptions ; the highest flights
of poetry and romance are taken in the
realms of fancy and imagination, as
well as the merest doggerel themes and
expressions. The ears of mortals are
entranced by the eloquent strains of
musio discoursed on instruments
touched or swept by unseen hands.
The laws of nature are unravelled ,* and
the distant worlds that shine in the
vault of heaven are ransacked to show
the wonderful and extensive powers of
the mediums. The unseen and spirit-
world becomes as familiar as the
natural. The mediums are numerous
and classified — the examples without
number. The autographs, abilities,
and language of the illustrious
dead are imitated, as well as those of
the most plebeian and ignorant.
Indeed, everything that the powers of
spirits could conceive is displayed to
snow the connection between the spirit
and natural world, and to subject the
intellect and will of mankind to their
control.

We do not deny the existence of such
communications. It is true there have
been many impositions detected, and
others remain undetected; yet the
examples are too numerous that prove its
valid manifestations. The most sceptical
minds have been compelled to admit
what they saw ; and men of the highest
intellect, after having severely scru-
tinized the operations, nave bowed to the
existence of the wonderful. Conscien-
tious and talented persons have them-
selves become mediums, even sometimes
involuntarily. There can be no question
that spirits of an unseen state manifest
their abilities and ideas through mor-
tals. But while we admit the facts
before stated, must we therefore ac-
knowledge the importance of their re-
velations and bow to their influence P
Shall we be compelled to own that their
principles are true and necessary to the
full development of mankind P I say,
emphatically, No ! We ought to examine
their claims by some standard, and
refuse to be led by any power, no
matter how mysterious or wonderful,
that comes not in God's appointed way.
Weafaould not be mflueaoe4 orguj4e4by

any power or spirit, merely because it
is out of the ordinary course of nature,
or because it reveals things, to us un-
known, by means that are of a super-
natural character.

The human mind, as we see it deve-
loped, is fond of the marvellous. It
seems to be ever on the stretch for
some mysterious and wonderful things;
and it seeks gratification in the most
absurd and ridiculous manner. The
artful and designing have profited by
the gullibility of the world. Too fre-
quently, because it is strange, it is be-
hoved, and the curiosity becomes ex-
cited and pleased with pretensions,
especially anything of a spiritual mani-
festation, because it is reallyseen,andis
received ; and because of this fact, its
utterances or revelations must be be-
lieved.

Even if some of the sayings and prin-
ciples are true, we should not believe
and be led by the medium. John says,
44 Believe not every spirit." Spirits can '
tell truth where they can communicate,
as weU as mortals. They can speak
what they see and know, but, like mor-
tals, can only tell what comes under
their observation and experience ; and
speculations with them, as with us, are
as vague and contradictory. What
more does a spirit know after its sepa-
ration irom the body than it knew
when embodied ? Nothing. Does the
very fact of death (as we call it,) im-
part more truth or knowledge, immedi-
ately on its entering the spirit- world ?
Assuredly not. When ample timo
elapses, and experience is attained, it
may be able to reveal what it knows.
But so far as eternal truths necessary
for the progress of man and his entire
salvation are concerned, spirits must be
as positively ignorant as we are until
the opportunity opens for them to hear
or learn from those knowing and having
the authority to teaeh the counsels,
purposes, decrees, and commandments
of God in relation to man and his
destiny. The removal from this
world to another imparts no principle,
confers no intelligence, more than what
is seen and experienced in the transition
and the nature of the place where they
reside or are confined. Just as it is
impossible for a man, were he trans-
ported to China in a moment or in a
year, to know mofe of correct principle

Digitized by

750

"tby tech spirits," etc.

than before, unless by teaching and ex-
perience he acquired it. And if he re-
vealed what he knew, no confidence
could 'be placed in his account of other
things and places beyond his observa-
tion. His theories would be as un-
certain, and his views as shortsighted
as ours.

Numerous opposing and conflicting
statements and dogmas given by recent
spirit-communications prove* the truth of
the assertions . But supposing that there
were many truths expressed by them,
are we to be led and influenced by
those uttering them? By no means.
There are some truths or facts we may
be told, and the knowledge of them
will make us neither wiser nor better ;
and our ignorance of them will not re-
tard our progress in the development of
our race. For instance, it is a fact
that report says that General Fremont
will be dismissed from the position he
occupies in the Federal Army in
Ajnerica. It is a fact that ten thou-
sands of little things occur every day
which we neither know nor want to
know. Yet they are true. But of
what utility are they, even though re-
vealed by some spirit cognizant of their
existence P, None whatever. E ven im-
portant truths revealed to us, though
believed, are not to make us respect and
obey the revealers. We have several
interesting examples of this in the
Scriptures. I select one. In Acts xvi.
16, and following verses, it is recorded
that " a certain damsel possessed with
a spirit of divination " followed Paul
and his associates, " and cried, These
men are the servants of the Most High
God, which show unto us the way of
salvation." Now, what could be more
true and important than the testimony
of that woman under the influence of
that spirit P The words were flattering
to the Apostles, and calculated to lead
men and women to hear the Gospel.
One would think that such an attendant
would be valuable to those missionaries,
and they would retain her as an ad-
ditional proof of the Divine mission of
Jesus, feut no. The Apostles needed
no such means to assist them in the pro-
pagation of the truth ; and after bear-
ing with the insult from the Devil long
enough, they commanded the spirit io
come ont of her. Although, as we per-
oeWe, it revealed important truth oa

that occasion, yet its influence was not
to be believed, nor its truths received
through that channel.

Some one may say; If even important
truths are not to be obtained and
obeyed, coming through spirit mediums*
what course must we pursue P I say,
" Try the spirits, whether they be of
God." It is notorious that spiritists are
not guided, taught, or influenced by
God, or his Holy Spirit. Thev are
moved by spirits said to be belonging
to several spheres, each spirit ana
sphere having its own peculiar mode
and matter. Some of these spirits are
low, and others high ; some are kind,
civil, and intelligent ; others are harsh,
cruel, and ignorant. The spirits of
murderers, robbers, liars, drunkards,
and other profane characters are said
to manifest themselves through the
several mediums, as well as those of
highminded, intelligent, and virtuous
beings. The question is not to be dis-
cussed in this article whether those
spirits communicating are the veritable
ones who, united with bodies here,
passed through the scenes which sur-
round us, or those spirits said to have
fallen with Satan to try mankind—
who were untrue to their first estate,
and cannot enjoy a second estate ; but
will try to torment those who do possess
it. Space would not permit us to enter
upon it here, nor indeed is it our sub-
ject. I care not which class it may be
— my design is to test all mani-
festations calculated to deceive us, and
which are not designed by God for
man's redemption and exaltation. But
to the point.

Again : The spirits of negroes, and
others low in the scale of being, are
said to influence mediums and speak
the mysteries of their " prison-houses.**
Now, I ask, Is it not degrading to men
and women to suffer themselves to be
underthe power of such spirits— to con-
sult and be instructed by negroes,
murderers, thieves, and lewd beings
with whom we would not asso-
ciate here, unless it were to instruct and
benefit them, and by our teaching and
instruction raise them in the scale of
intellectuality and morality P I say, a
noble and highminded person would
feel degraded with such society, or those
who represent it. And is it not incon-
sistency and culpability to subject too

Digitized by

TBT THE SPIRITS, ETC.

751

will, spirit, intellect, and body to such
•depraved spirits, or even to those
higher in intelligence and goodness P
" Try the spirits, whether they are of
God." My remarks prove that they
are not of God. They do not claim to
be of or from God. They pretend to be
of men, and, from their different spheres,
have not been in the presence of or as-
sociated with God, as angels who " are
ministering spirits, sent forth to minister
to those who shall be heirs of salvation."
Mankind should by all means avoid the
contact of such spirits, and never allow
the body and spirit to be governed by
unseen powers who prostrate the whole
spiritual and natural being.

We must be governed by higher and
holier principles, by the Spirit of God,
and by the means and manner ordained
by him to teach, govern, and elevate
the human race — the vast family of
man, whether they have left this pro-
bation, having passed through good and
evil here, are now treading the arena of
life, or are yet to follow us. That way,
that means, that power by which God
has foreordained to teach and control
the human family, is .the Holy Priest-
hood ; and .by none other has Heaven
worked or will work. Saint Paul says
pointedly on this subject, Eph. ii. 20— 22,
Ye " are built upon the foundation of
the Apostles and Prophets, Jesus
Christ himself being the chief corner
etone, in whom all the building fitly
framed together groweth unto an holy
temple in the Lord, in whom ye also
are builded together for an habitation
of God through the Spirit." Thus it is
plain that, according to the righteous
purposes of God, when he reveals prin-
ciples of truth and requires man to
attend and obey, he ordains and in-
spires Apostles, Prophets, &c, to ac-
complish the work. God calls men to
the nigh and holy callings by sending
forth from his presence his holy angels
to make known the truth, and em-
powers them to reveal those things
necessary for the development of man-
kind. Thus he makes man the humble
instrument to save man, and that intel-
lectually and with responsibility. God
likewise bestows upon all believers ,
his Holy Spirit, and makes that the
means of comfort, joy, peace, and en-
lightenment to them. The fruits and
gifts of that Spirit are such as are desig-

nated and enumerated in the Scriptures,
or as told us by Apostles. Not the
miserable antics, grimaces, fooleries,
comicalities, absurdities, and eccentric
solemnities that characterize spiritism
in its various manifestations and de-
velopments. Beyond all controversy,
God's only way is by the Priesthood.
This is the key to unlock all the
mysteries of godliness, to reveal all the
truth, and to make man as he designs
him to be. In Eph. iv., 8th and follow-
ing verses, Paul shows this important
truth more plainly — "He gave gifts
unto men. And he gave some,
apostles ; and some, prophets; and some,
evangelists - f and some, pastors and
teachers, for the perfecting of the
saints, for the work of the ministry,
for the edifying of the body of Christ
and of the knowledge of the Son of God,
till we all come in tne unity of the faith,
unto a perfect man, unto the measure of
the stature of the fulness of Christ ; that
we henceforth be no more children,
tossed to-and-fro, and carried about
with every wind of doctrine, by the
sleight of men, and cunning craftiness
whereby they lie in wait to deceive."
Thus we can easily perceive the
mediums that God employs to save,
exalt, and make man perfect. In other
words, to fully enlighten all the human
race, to make man perfect as Jesus
Christ, to give unto him all the know-
ledge of the Son of God, and to jpre- .
vent him from being deceived by spirits,
or the theories of artful, designing, or
sincere, erring men in this world, God
has called and ordained Apostles,
Prophets, and various helps and go-
vernments. By obeying their words,
the purposes of God will be accom-
plished in the regeneration of the world
and the redemption of our race, all
the faculties of man will be fully de-
veloped, and perfection attained, and
man will be kept secure from all evil
and degenerating spirit-influences.

This is the touchstone which will
test the metal, pure or impure ; this is
the talisman that will charm the soul
in its eternal and progressive course ;
this is the key to open the portals
of heaven to the longing vision
and ever-acquiring faculties of man*
In this shall his purely-ambitious sou!
be satisfied ; for the eternal desires for
knowledge, and the exercise of power

Digitized by

Google

752

HI8T0BT OF JOSEPH SMITH.

created in him by his great Father,
will be satisfied ; but can only be so by
strict obedience to his Divine will, and
learning from the infallible sonrce
ordained to this end.

Oh! ye wanderers from the truth,
who deny the necessity of more revela-
tion to guide your hearts aright, and to
enlarge your narrow souls, — whose
theories 4>ave led to many distracting
creeds without power, "ever learning,
a*d never able to come to a knowledge
of the truth," come and learn truly of
Jesus ; lay aside your false learning
and tradition and obey the Gospel as
he taught it, and receive the powers
and blessings of knowledge obtained
by obedience to the Priesthood !
Ye who are led by every foul, mean,
and depraved, as well as uncertain,
intelligent, and false-aspiring spirits,
render not your intellects, wills, and
bodies to those inflnences and powers
which you do not understand, and

would make you instruments or
mediums to deceive the world, obey
humbly the Gospel, receive its spirit,
and you will be free. " Try the spirits;
whether they are of God," lest you re-
ceive strong delusion, that you may
believe a he, that you may be con-
demned. We cannot be deceived bj
any wonder, miracle, principle, or
spirit, when our minds are rightly in-
formed on this subject, and have learned
God's key to try the spirits. " The elect
cannot be deceived," because by the
power of the Priesthood they are taught;
by God's Spirit they are endowed ; and
under the greatest of beings— the God
of all, the holiest power in the universe,
they can know what is truth and obey
its requirements. And instead of being
subject to good, indifferent, or evu
spirits, and having no power to resist;
they learn that " the spirit of tbe pro-
phets is subject to the prophets."

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from pag$ 739.)

A Conference was held at Pleasant
Valley, Michigan. Present, of the
Twelve, W. Woodruff and George A.
Smith. Elder W. Woodruff presided.
Six Branches were represented, com-
prising 89 members, 5 Elders, 2 Priests,
4 Teachers, and 3 Deacons. Five
Elders twere ordained.

Sunday, 9. At home. My health
not very good, in consequence of my
lungs being impaired by so much public
speaking. My brother Hyrum preached
at the Stand.

At 2 p.m., several passengers of the
steamer Osprey, from St. Louis and
Quincy, arrived, and put up at the
Mansion. I helped to carry in their
trunks, and chatted with them in the
bar-room.

There was a meeting at the Mansion
at 6 p.m.

Monday, 10. I was in the City
Council from 10 a.m. to 1.20 p.m., and
from 2.20 to 6.30 p.m., investigating
the merits of the Nauvoo Expositor, ana
also the conduct of the Laws, Higbees,
Fosters, and others, who have formed a
conspiracy for the purpose of destroying

my life, and scattering the Saints or
driving them from the State.

An ordinanoe was passed concerning
libels. The Council passed an ordinance
declaring the Nauvoo Expositor a
nuisance, and also issued an order to
me to abate the said nuisance. I im-
mediately ordered the Marshal to
destroy it without delay, and at the
same time issued an order to Jonathan
Dunham, acting Major-General of the
Nauvoo Legion, to assist the Marshal
with the Legion, if called upon to do so.

About 8 p.m., the Marshal returned
and reported that he had removed the
press, type, printing-paper, and fixtures
into the street, and destroyed them.
This was done because of the libelous
and slanderous character of the paper,
its avowed intention being to destroy
the Municipality and drive the Saints
from the city. The posse, accompanied
by some hundreds of the citizens, re-
turned with the Marshal to the front
of the Mansion, when I gave them *
short address, and told them they had
done right, and that not a hair of their
heads should be hurt for it ; that thej

Digitized by CjOOQ IC

HI8T0BT OF

had executed the orders which were
given me by the City Council ; that I
would never submit to have another
libelous publication established in the
city; that I did not care how many
papers were printed in the city, if they
would print the truth ; but would submit
to no libels or slanders from them. I
then blessed them in the name of the
Lord. This speech was loudly greeted
bv the assembly with three -times- three
cheers. The posse and assembly then
dispersed all in good order. Francis
M. Higbee and others made some
threats.

Bast wind. Very cold and cloudy.
I here insert the

" ORDINANCE CONCERNING LIBELS AND
FOR OTHER PURPOSES.

Whereas the Saints in all ages of the
world have suffered persecution and death
by wicked and corrupt men under the
garb of a more holy appearance of reli gion ;
and whereas the Church of Jesus Christ
of Latter-day Saints, from the moment-
that its first 'truth sprang out of the
earth 1 till now, has been persecuted with
death, destruction, and extermination ;
and - whereas men, to fulfil the Scriptures
that a man's enemies are thev of his own
household, have turned traitors in the
Church, and combined and leagued with
the most corrupt scoundrels and villains
that, disgrace tine earth unhung, for the
Heaven-daring and damnable purpose of
revenge on account of disappointed lust,
disappointed projects of speculation, fraud,
and unlawful designs to rob and plunder
mankind with impunity; and whereas
such wicked and corrupt men have greatly
facilitated their unlawful designs, horrid
intentions, and murderous plans by pol-
luting, degrading, and converting the
blessings and utility of the press to the
sm-smoking and blood-stained ruin of
innocent communities — by publishing lies,
false statements, colouring the truth,
slandering men, women, chilcfren, societies,
and countries, — by polishing the characters
of blacklegs, highwaymen, and murder-
ers as virtuous ; and whereas a horrid,
bloody, secret plan, upheld, sanctioned,
and largely patronized by men in Nauvoo
and out of it, who boast that all they
want for the word 4 go? to exterminate or
ruin the Latter-day Saints, is for them to
do ' one 1 unlawful act, and the work shall
be done, is now fostered, cherished, and
maturing in Nauvoo, — by men, too, who
helped to obtain the very charter they
would break, and some of them drew up
and voted for the very ordinances they
are striving to use as a 'scarecrow 1 to

JOSEPH SMITH. 753

frighten the surrounding country in
rebellion, mobbing, and war" ; and whereas,
while the blood of our brethren from
wells, holes, and naked prairies, and the
ravishment of female virtue from Missouri,
and the smoke from the altars of infamy,
prostituted by John C. Bennett, and con-
tinued in the full tide of experiment and
disgraceful damnation by the very self-
called fragments of a body of degraded
men that nave got up a press in Nauvoo
to destroy the charter of the city — to
destroy 4 Mormonism,' men, women, and
children, as Missouri did, by force of
arms — by fostering laws that emanate
from corruption and betray with a kiss ;
wherefore to honour the State of Illinois,
and those patriots who gave the charter,
and for the benefit, convenience, health,
and happiness of said city : —

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City
Council of Nauvoo that if any person or
persons shall write or publish in said
city any false statement, or libel any of
the citizens, for 1 the purpose of exciting
the public mind against the chartered
privileges, peace, and good order of said
city, or shall slander (according to the
definition of slander or libel by Blackstone
or Kent, or the act in the Statute of
Illinois,) any portion of the inhabitants
of said city, or bribe any portion of the
citizens of said city for malicious purposes,
or in any manner or form excite the pre-
judice of the communitv against any
portion of the citizens of said city, for
evil purposes, he, she, or they shall be
deemed disturbers of the peace ; and,
upon conviction before the Mayor or
Municipal Court, shall be fined in any
sum not exceeding five hundred dollars,
or imprisoned six months, or both, at the
discretion of said Mayor or court.

Sec. 2. Be it further ordained that
nothing in the foregoing section shall be
so construed as to interfere with the right
of any person to be tried by a jury of his
vicinage, with the freedom of speech or
the liberty of the press, according to the
most liberal meaning of the Constitution,
the dignity of freemen, the voice of truth,
and the rules of virtue.

Sec. 3. And be it further ordained that
this ordinance shall be in force from and
after its passage.

Passed June 10th, 1844.
Geo. W. Harris, President pro. tern.
W. Richards, Recorder."

I also insert a brief synopsis of the
proceedings of the City Council of the
city of Nauvoo, relative to the de-
struction of the press and fixtures of the

Nauvoo Expositor.

764

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SHTTH.

" City Council, Regular Session,
June 8th, 1844.
In connection with other business, as
stated in last week's paper, the Mayor
remarked that he believed it generally
the case, that when a man goes to law, he
has an unjust cause, and wants to go
before some one who wants business, and
that he had very few cases on his docket ;
and referring to Councillor Emmons,
editor of the Nauvoo Expositor, suggested
the propriety of first purging the City
Council ; and, referring to the character
of the paper and proprietors, called up
Theodore Turley, a mechanic, who being
sworn, said that the Laws '(William and
Wilson,) had brought bogus dies to him
to fix.

Councillor Hyrum Smith inquired what
good Foster and his brother and the
Higbee's and Laws had ever done.
While his brother Joseph was under
arrest from the Missouri persecution, the
Laws and Robert D. Foster would have
been ridden on a rail, if he had not stepped
forward to prevent it, on account of their
oppressing the poor.

Mayor said, while he was under arrest
by writ from Governor Carlin, William
Law sued him for $40 he was owing
Law, and it took the last expense-money
he had to pay it.

Councillor fl. Smith referred to J. H.
Jackson's coming to this city, Ac. Mayor
said that William Law had offered Jackson
$500 to kill him.

Councillor H. Smith continued — Jackson
told him he (Jackson) meant to have his
daughter, and threatened him if he made
any resistance. Jackson related to him a
dream, that Joseph and Hyrum were
opposed to him, but that he would exe-
cute his purposes ; that Jackson had laid
a plan with four or five persons to kidnap
his daughter, and threatened to shoot any
one that should come near after he had
got her in the skiff ; that Jackson was
engaged in trving to make bogus, which
was his principal business. Referred to
the revelation read to the High Council
of the Church, which has caused so much
talk, about the multiplicity of wives ;
that said revelation was in answer to a
question concerning things which tran-
spired in former days. That when sick,
William Law confessed to him that he
had been 'guilty of adultery,' and * was
not fit to live,' and had 4 sinned against
his own soul,' &c, and inquired who was
Judge Emmons ? When he came here he
had scarce two shirts to'his back ; but he
had been dandled by the authorities of
the city, Ac., and was now editor of the
Nauvoo Expositor, and his right hand

man, Francis M. Hicbee, who had con-
fessed to him that he nad had the .

Washington Peck sworn, said — Soon
after Joseph H. Jackson came here, he
came to witness to borrow money, which
witness loaned him, and took some jewelry
as security.

Soon after a man from across the river
came after the jewelry. Jackson had
stolen the jewelry from him.

At another time wanted to get money
of witness. Asked witness if he would
do any thing dishonourable to get a living.
Witness said he would not. Jackson said
witness was a damned fool, for he could
get a living a deal easier than he was then
doing by making bogus ; and some men,
high in the Church, are engaged in the
business.

Witness asked if it was Joseph. ' No,*
said Jackson ; ' I dare not tell it to Joseph.'
Witness understood him the Laws are
engaged in it Jackson said he would be
the death of witness, if he ever went to
Joseph, or anyone else, to tell what he
had said.

Afternoon. — Ordered by the Council
that Sylvester Emmons be suspended
until his case could be investigated, for
slandering the City Council. That the
Recorder notify him of bis suspension, and
that his case would come up for investi-
gation at the next regular session of the
Council. (The order is in the hands of
the Marshal)

Councillor J. Taylor said that Councillor
Emmons helped to make the ordinances
of the city, and had never lifted his voice •
against them in the Council, and was now
trying to destroy the ordinances and the
charter.

Lorenzo Wasson sworn, said Joseph fl.
Jackson had told witness that bogus-
making was going on in the city ; but it
was too damned small business. Wanted
witness to help him to procure money, for
the General (Smith) was afraid to go into
it ; and with $500 he could get an en-
graving for bills on the Bank of Missouri,
and one on the State of New York, and
could make money. Said many times
witness did not know him. Believed the
General had been telling witness some-
thing. r * God damn him ; if he has, I will
kill him. Swore he would kill any man
that should prove a traitor to him*
Jackson said, if he could get a company of
men to suit him, he would go into the
frontiers and live by highway robbery ;
had got sick of the world

Mayor suggested that the Council pass
an ordinance to prevent misrepresentations
and libelous publications ana conspiracies
against the peace of the city; and, referring
to the reports that Dr. Foster had set

Digitized by

Google

KDITOBIAL. 755

afloat, said he had never made any pro-
posals to Foster to come back to the
Church. Foster proposed to come back ;
came to Mayor's house, and wanted a
private interview. Had some conversa-
tion with Foster in the hall, in presence
of several gentlemen, on the 7th inst.
Offered to meet him and have an inter-
view in presence of friends, three or four,
to be selected by each party; which Foster
agreed to, and went to bring his friends
for the interview ; and the next notice he
had of him was the following letter : —
'To Gen. J. Smith,

June 7th, 1844.
Sir, — I have consulted my friends in
relation to your proposals of settlement,
and they, as well as myself, are of opinion
that your conduct, and that of your un-
worthy, unprincipled clan, is so base, that
it would lie morally wrong, and detract
from the dignity of gentlemen, to hold any
conference with you. The repeated in-
sults and abuses I, as well as my Mends,
have suffered from your unlawful course
towards us, demands honourable reeent-

(T0b4

ment. We are resolved to make this our
motto.

Nothing on our part has been done to
provoke your anger, but have done all
things as become men. You have trampled
upon everything we hold dear and sacred.
You have set all law at defiance, and pro-
faned the name of the Most High to carry
out your damnable purposes ; and I have
nothing more to fear from you than you have
already threatened ; and I, as well as my
friends, will stay here and maintain and
magnify the law as long as we stay; and we
are resolved never to leave until we sell or
exchange our property that we have here.

The proposals made by your agent,
Dimick Huntington, as well as the threats
you sent to intimidate me, I disdain and
despise as I do their unhallowed author.
The right of my family and my friends
demands at my hand a refusal of all your
offers. We are united in virtue and truth,
and we set hell at defiance, and all her
agents. Adieu.

R. D. Foster.

Gen. J. Smith.'

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Satubdat, November 23, 1861.

RETRIBUTIVE JUSTICE— THE ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH
GUILTY OF THE CRIMES CHARGED ON THE SAINTS.

That "the justice of God never sleeps " is, we believe, a proverb of oriental lands ;
the truth of which, however, is not alone realized in that hemisphere. Events
are taking place at the present time in the West, which afford as striking an illus-
tration of the truth of the proverb we have quoted as any that ever were beheld
in the East. About thirty years ago the Latter-day Saints settled for the first
time in the State of Missouri. They remained within its limits nearly seven years,
and the most of that time they suffered the most cruel persecutions. Repeatedly
driven from one county to another, they thoroughly tested the humanity of its
people and the impartiality and honesty of its government and officers. The
oppression the Saints endured and the scenes of misery they were compelled to
witness and pass through will never be forgotten by the victims of this cruelty
themselves, nor by posterity. It will be remembered throughout all time that the
State of Missouri was the first organized government that, as such, trampled under
foot the laws, institutions, and glorious liberty guaranteed by the Constitution of
the United States, and outraged in the most high-handed and flagrant manner
every principle of justice and freedom, by murdering men, women, and children,
by ravishing women, by imprisoning the Prophet and other innocent servants of
God, and feeding them, while confined, upon human flesh, by ruthlessly burning
houses^ destroying stock, grain, and other property, and committing other
numerous wrongs, and, finally, by issuing an edict of extermination, which

Digitized by Google

756

EDITORIAL.

compelled every Latter-day Saint to flee out of the State in the" midst of an
inclement winter, and leave his property behind him, or, if they remained, be
killed. At the time these iniquities were being perpetrated, the people and
Government of the State werq petitioned, remonstrated with, and warned, bat
without avail. They were utterly regardless of everything but the destruction or
-expulsion of the people of God. And even after they had expelled them from
their borders, they were not content : they vindictively continued to use every
stratagem and means in their power to consummate their wishes in ruining and
destroying the Saints. While he lived, the Prophet Joseph was the object of
Missouri's ceaseless persecutions ; and emissaries from that State were inces-
santly stirring up strife and hatred in the new land to which we had fled. A
large portion of the trouble which the Church experienced in Illinois is directly
traceable to the inappeasable, embittered, and active malignity of Missouri.

Missouri's crimes being of this complexion and enormity, it is not surprising
that the threatenings and denunciations of the Lord through his servants has
been so frequent and so strongly expressed. They have felt that the innocent
blood shed by the people of that State would not cry in vain from the ground*
nor the prayers and supplications of suffering innocence ascend unnoticed and
unanswered to the ears of the Lord of the whole earth, and therefore have been
looking for a terrible vengeance to be poured out upon that people and land.
But the guilty ones have had no such fears. They have deemed themselves
secure, and have laughed at the warnings that have been given. But though
long delayed, as some may think, justice has not been sleeping. It has begun
to exact its penalties. The measure the people of Missouri meted out is being
measured to them again, and to a manifold greater extent. It has been but a
few months since they were visited by the dread scourge of war, and
already there are but few wrongs and enormities that were inflicted by them
upon the Saints which they have not experienced themselves, and that, too, from
the hands of each other. Throughout this civil war which has so recently com-
menced, there has been no State of the thirty-four that has suffered to the same
extent as Missouri. To her the consequences have been indeed most serious.
Business of every kind is almost entirely suspended and broken up within her
limits. Her commerce is destroyed, and over a large portion of her surface all
civil law is suspended, and military rule substituted in its stead. It was this
rule that she would have been pleased to enforce against the Saints ; and it was
in accordance with this rule, so said, that the Prophet Joseph and his associates
were sentenced, without any form of trial, or any opportunity of defence, to be
shot, — a sentence, the execution of which the opposition of General Doniphan and
the withdrawal of his brigade alone averted. She is now experiencing the full
benefit of this fearful rule. Armies are marching and countermarching through-
out the length and breadth of tho State, carrying devastation and misery where-
over they go, leaving behind them dismantled cities, and a land that looks as though
the blast of the Almighty had passed over it. Federals and Confederates gain alter-
nate victories, and both parties suffer in their turn, and not unfrequently from
the side which they profess to favour, as well as from the opposite. The condition
of the people under such circumstances is fearful to contemplate, and this fear
and uncertainty, with the gloomy prospects there are before them for peace, must
be horrible. Little did the people of Missouri think, when they abused, plundered,
and murdered the Saints, who were peaceably seeking to build themselves homes

and to beautify the State, molesting no one and interfering with no one's rights,
+v. A ,, — — u j ,jl r.«n<> Ak«

KDITOBIAL.

757

selves and their children — that they were sowing dragon's teeth, which would
spring up a crop of armed men. Little did they think that when they would be
hating each other, and hunting each other, and destroying each other, like so
many wild beasts, the people whom they were seeking to exterminate would be
dwelling in peace and enjoying every desirable blessing. Yet so it is.

The past history of the people of God in these days is fruitful of proof that
every evil which men have sought to bring upon the Saints has fallen in the end
upon their own heads. There are numerous instances of this, besides the case
of Missouri, which we have just alluded to. One very notable instance of the
kind is the attempt which was made four years ago to introduce war and all its
train of evils into the midst of the Saints, and thus produce the dissolution
of the Church. This scheme failed in its accomplishment; but the
identical evils that were intended for us fell elsewhere, .and where they were
least expected. It is worthy of remark that the crime with which they
falsely charged the Saints, and because of the pretended existence of which they
wished war to be introduced, is the crime which they themselves have been
really guilty of, and which has brought down upon their own heads the mischief
they intended for ours. It is a peculiarity of tjhe work in these days, and is very
remarkable, that the world has never yet raised an outcry against the servants of
God or his people for something they have believed or have been reported to have
believed, and done or been reported to have done, but before a long time has
elapsed they themselves have been guilty of the same offence, only more odious in
every way than that which we have been charged with. The very men who
raised suck an outcry, while the Church was in Missouri, about the
treasonable designs of Joseph and the Elders, are many of them guilty at the
present time of such black and villanous treason that the whole State is plunged
in the vortex of civil war, and anarchy universally prevails. So also with the
recent charges made against the Saints : the men who were the most eager of any
in the nation for their punishment for treason and rebellion and who lifted their
voices most loudly in proclaiming and charging them with guilt, demanding their
sacrifice to appease the offended manes of the country, are those who at the
present time are in open rebellion against the Government, and are doing all
in their power to destroy it. The very crime which they falsely charged the
Saints with they themselves are guilty of. General Johnston, who headed the
Expedition against Utah and who classed the inhabitants of the Territory as
rebels and traitors, has within a few months past entered into a formidable con-
spiracy with others in the South to destroy the power of the rightful Government
and establish another in its stead, and is now at the head of an army for this pur-
pose ! Many of the officers who were with [him in the Expedition to Utah are
with him in his treason and rebellion. The two Commissioners who were em-
powered to administer the President's pardon for our imaginary rebellion and
other sins are both rebels and traitors to the Government at the present time !
The Vice-President and several of the members of the Cabinet who sent them
occupy also the same position and relationship to the legitimate Government !
Yet these men whose own love for the Government was of so phantom -like a
character were all loud in their talk about our disloyalty, &c, and (the Commis-
sioners especially) claimed great credit for the part they took in bringing us back
to our allegiance !

Similar instances to the above of the principle of which we are speaking are
very numerous in the history of the work in these days. It was considered by
many people throughout the United States a crime worthy of death for Joseph

758

EDITOBIAIh

Smith in his capacity as Mayor of the city of Nauvoo, with the City Council, to
pass an ordinance abating a libellous and filthy press as a nusiance which some
unprincipled scoundrels had established for the purpose of villifying and calum-
niating the wives and daughters of respectable citizens! When he and his
brother Hyrum were murdered by a band of misoreants, some seventeen days
after the nuisance was abated, that bloody deed was approved by many because
the victims had dared as city officers to curtail the licentiousness of the press !
But mark the consistency ! Presses whose only sin is being lukewarm in the
cause of war can now be abolished and destroyed all over the country, and there
is no one to find fault ; and yet those who approve of and consent to such pro-
ceedings are many of them the same persons who a few years since so unsparingly
denounced the action in the case of the infamous Nauvoo press !

For years after the rise of the Church it was customary to apply the title of
" money-digger " to the Prophet Joseph as an opprobrious epithet ; but a 'few
years after, and thousands of those who out of contempt had called him this were
pleased to be known as " money-diggers." The avocation has become popular,
and the high and the learned, as well as the lowly and the simple, and among the
rest a very large proportion of clergymen, have forsaken all and made pilgrimages
to the golden shrine— have sacrificed life and health that they might be numbered
with the " money-diggers," — not following an honourable employment as Joseph
was, but gratifying their sordid, Mammon-worshipping desires. Again .* He and
the entire Church were despised and ridiculed because they asserted a belief
in the ministration of angels, in revelation and in the gifts of the Spirit. - For
years they were held up to contempt for this belief. But it was in this as in other
instances — the world began to come round, not in the manner the servant of
God had by inspiration pointed out, (his was too pure and holy a method for
them,) but by obtaining revelations through tables and other equally improper
and impure mediums. Believers in spirit-manifestations and revelations
obtained after this fashion soon numbered hundreds of thousands. They
adopted that principle which they before so strongly contemned, and in a form so
repulsive and hateful that it excites wonder how they ever could be prevailed
upon to. receive it. In this manner the world is stultifying itself, denouncing,
slandering, and rejecting principles that it witnesses in the servants and Saints of
Gpd, and which are pure and wholesome, making base charges and accusations
which are utterly false, and then shortly afterwards adopting base imitations of
the principles, but bearing no greater resemblance to them than a false and most
basely-adulterated coin does to a true one, and performing actions more mean
and criminal than those whieh they have lyingly asserted the Saints were guilty
of. If the Saints of God have merited the persecutions and cruelties inflicted
upon them because of their practice of pure principles, and because slanders have
been circulated, accusing them of misdemeanours of which they have not been
guilty, what shall be the punishment of the nations and people who have pro-
nounced this verdict, and who are themselves guilty of practices and crimes of
the same nature, but more atrocious than even those we have been falsely
charged with P Out of their own mouths and by their own actions will the Lord
judge them, and they will stand convicted as hypocrites.

Notice to Book AgSnts. — We beg to inform our Book Agents that of Hymn
Books we have no morocco, calf gilt-edges, or calf-grained on hand; but we have

y," those bouj
nd.

/ Google

a large number of roan : also that of the " Key to Theology," those bound in
cloth and calf-grained are sold ; but we have morocco on hand.

Digitized by *

cobbbspoWdexcb.

759

SCOTLAND.
Edinburgh, Nov. 2, 1861.
Dear Brother Cannon, — Since I last
wrote you, I have had a run round the
District, with brother George Peacock,
introducing him to the Saints and in-
stalling him hi his new field of labour.
He feels well and carries with him the
spirit of Zion, which makes the Saints
feel well wherever we go. " The Spirit
maketh alive : " without it we are dead
to the work of God.

We met with the Saints in Conference
as follows, according to previous ap-
pointment : Glasgow, on the 24th ult. ;
Dundee, 27th. ; and Edinburgh, on the
third instant. At all of the above-
named places we had good meetings
and a favourable report. Over two
hundred have been baptized daring the
last half-year, and but three excom-
municated from the Churoh, which
speaks well for the good work in Scot-
land. Our future prospects are flat-
tering. Many are inquiring in:o
' Morinonism.' Brother Baxter has
letters from old members in the High-
lands expressing a desire to renew
their covenants and return to the fold,
as they find no true happiness outside
the kingdom of God. We expect to visit
Aberdeen and organize a Branch
shortly. At present our hands are full.
We have calls to preach in a great many
more places than we are able to fill.

I am happy to state that the Priest-
hood are one with me, and are anxious
to assist in bearing part of the burden
as far as they have ability. I have
perfect confidence in the Presidents
of Conferences and Travelling Elders,
and they report their fields of labour in
good working condition ; and if I may
judge from their good looks and cheerful
hearts, the Saints have found the
*• labourer worthy of his hire" and
administered to their wants. We are
behindhand as yet in money matters ;
but I can assure you we will be out of
debt shortly, and have something on
hand to bless our brethren who are
blessing us. The Presidents of Con*
ferences and Branches are book-agents,
they are doing their utmost to spread
the circulation of the Star, which
reflects the light of truth as it beams
forth from Zion down to the homes and

hearts of the poorest Saint. They have
adopted the motto, "Pay as you go."
We wish all to sustain them in this
matter by paying up their arrears at
once, so as they can square their ac-
counts with the Office in Liverpool.
Every man or woman who is for God
is in the pathway of duty, feeling it
to be the only safe place during the
present crisis of a falling world. The
Lord will never forsake those who put
their trust in him. The spirit of
gathering animates the bosom of every
Saint, but I find some run to extremes
in this matter ; for instead of saving
themselves " from this unto ward gener-
ation," they want to gather up ail that
is in Babylon and take it to Zion. A
certain old lady told me she should like
to take her furniture to the Valley, she
was so attached to it : it had been in
the family for several generations, and *
she hated to part with it. The Saints
seems to forget we have all the elements
in Utah to make a home comfortable
and happy, and already we are ahead
of many of our neighbours on the fron-
tiers in America.

All who ^ can will emigrate from
Scotland this season. There never was
a better spirit in the Mission, nor
more confidence in the Priesthood. The
Saints are living their religion under -
standingly, and feel that it gives them
perfect freedom — freedom to do right.

I was about to send you a report of
all the speeches delivered at the several
Conferences while convened ; but, on
reflecting, I remembered that they were '
not delivered to you. but to the Saints
in Scotland.

With kind love to Presidents Lyman,
Rich, yourself, and all inquiring
friends, I remain, as ever, your brother
in the Gospel covenant,

David M. Stttabt.

HOLLAND.
Amsterdam, Oct. 18, 1861.

President George Q. Cannon.

Bear Brother,— -I feel very much in-
terested to make you further acquainted
with our circumstances. I left Am-
sterdam on the 21st of August by the
packet for Workum, in Friesland, and
arrived on the 22nd. I found my re-

Digitized by

760

COBBESPONDENCB.

latives in good health : they were very
glad to see me. I very soon made
them acquainted with the Gospel, so that
they felt very glad over' it, and they
opened a way for me that I preached
on the evening Of the 23rd for the first
time in Workum. This preaching
caused much excitement in that city.
The meeting was very crowded. Some
preachers opposed, and tried to prevent
our speaking. I was very busy there,
and had on the 28th a long conversation
with a preacher w^ho tried to prove his
doctrines by the Scriptures, and to
prove our doctrines by the Scriptures
to be false; but he did not succeed. He
was ashamed, and could not say a word,
at last, and left the meeting.

I left on the 29th for Leenwarden,
where I arrived in the evening, and
found there a society that called them-
selves " Salvation of the People." I
went to their meeting, and found out
that they blessed their children, and
believed that the baptism of children
was not right ; but still they were in
opposition to the "Mormons" on the
ground of polygamy and other matters,
go that I could not do any good.

On the 31st I left Leenwarden for
Dokkum, and* was among my relatives,
spreading " Mormonism," up to the
18th of Sept., when I preached on that
date in a farmer's barn,. which was
very crowded with people. They felt
very glad to hear me, and wanted me
to preach on the next Sunday again in
another barn near to Broek by Akker-
wonde, where was a large congregation
of people. This opened my way, and I
baptized one man and two women.

There are many honest-hearted
people in this country who are seeking
after the truth ; but, owing to the pre-
valence of false reports concerning
"Mormonism" and the "Mormons,"
it is difficult to* make much progress.

I remain your brother in the ever-
laying Gospel,

A. W. Van deb Woude.

From the, foregoing letter of brother
Van der Woude, you see what we have
done since we last wrote to you, and
that he has broken the ice by baptizing
three into the Church ; and though the
prospect, for the present, is not very
encouraging, I trust in the Lord our

t .

God, that he will crown our efforts with
his blessing, and bless you also in the
performance of all the important duties
that are devolving upon you.

With love to Presidents Lyman and
Rich and yourself, in which brother
Van der Woude joins, I remain your
brother in the new and everlasting
Covenant,

Paul A. Schettler.

SWISS AND ITALIAN MISSION.

Basel, Oct, 23, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — With regard to the
work of the Lord in these lands, it is
ever onward, though slowly. Stfll
the seed that has been scattered on
stony ground amid these mountains
seems to yield something ; but in many
instances it has been long in taking
root. Last week there were two bap-
tized in Basel ; one or two more have
been wishing the same for some time;
but we have given them some works for
perusal, as since the emigration we
have sought to have the people know
what they are doing before we receive
them into the fold of Christ. In the
Mission there are some added to our
numbers almost every week, and in
some parts some are inquiring; and
prospects are that as soon as the press
of out- door work is over, many will in-
vestigate that are now too much
engaged with temporal concerns to look
after their spiritual welfare.

Brother Ballif writes from Carlsrue,
Baden, that the Saints are feeling well,
and they have good hopes for the
future. Brother Gerber writes from
Zurich the same cheering news. Elder
Huber (native Elder,) is with me for a
few days, and brings word from East
Switzerland that they have baptized 28
since the emigration in his district
alone. About the same number in
Baden ; and I think we have made up
our number amid all the clubbing ana
imprisonment that has been heaped
upon the Saints.

Brother Huber and many Saints
wish to be kindly remembered to you,
&c. , My kind love to all, not forgetting
yourself and family.

Faithfully yours,

John L. Smith.

Digitized by

8T7MMABY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

761

ENGLAND.

NOTTINGHAM DISTRICT.

Nottingham, Nov. 6, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — During the month of
October, I attended Conference meet-
ings in the Derby, Leicester, and Lin-
colnshire Conferences. I can truly
say that the hearty response of the Saints
in turning out to them, gave me much
satisfaction. It was gratifying to see
them come, as in some oases, ten to
twenty -five miles, rain or sunshine, that
they might mingle their voices with the
Saints, and raise their hands in support
of the Priesthood of God that he has
sent in this age to bless fallen human-
ity. Although they came in with
blistered feet, and somewhat fagged,
their countenances beamed with smiles

of gratitude to meet us and the Saints,
who in many instances set-to to make the
brethren and sisters from a distance as
comfortable as they could.

We have not been doing much in
baptizing the past month ; but many
seem to manifest a feeling of interest in
our meetings. X labour in hopes, if we
do not see the fruits of our labour
immediately, that we shall " after many
days." Upon the whole, the work
throughout this District may be said to
be on the increase, and the Saints feel to
have more and more confidence in the
Priesthood.

With kind regards to yourself and
Presidents Lyman and Rich, I remain
your brother in the Gospel of peace,
James S. Brown.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — Reports -from the Neapolitan
provinces speak of encounters at venosa
between the brigands and the troops and the
National Guards, in which fifty-six of the
latter were killed ; at Montella, in which
two brigands were killed; at Palma, where
the result was not decisive, and where the
brigands fled, as is their general policy;
and between Palmi and Lanzo, when, by
some clever manoeuvres, General Pinelfi
contrived to surround Cipriani's band, many
of whom were destroyed. The remainder,
with their chief, escaped. Among those
killed, were many Bavarian soldiers, well
dressed and armed. At Acerno, in the
province of Salerno, the brigands seized two
members of the National Guard, a father
and son, who had distinguished themselves
of late, and split their heads' with hatchets.
It appears that the storm which did so much
damage here at the end of last week was
severly felt at Rome. It burst over the
north-west part of the Holy City with
thunder, lightning, and hail, whilst a
waterspout traversed the district extending
from the Vatican to the Parioli Hills,
leaving disastrous traces of its destructive
course. The Pontifical Palace sustained
much damage, and outside the Holy City
much property was also destroyed, and
lives were lost.

Portugal. — A telegram from Lisbon an-
nounces that Pedro V., the King of Portu-
gal, died on the 12th inst. His illness was
of brief duration. He will be succeeded on
the throne by the Duke of Oporto.

Turkey. — The Pays asserts that in the
engagement which was fought on Wednesday
last between the Turkish troops and the
insurgents and Montenegrin's, the latter lost
1,000 meu. The insurgents have occupied
the town of Ragusaand the custom-house of
Zarina, near this city. The Arnauts have
fled to Ragusa. The insurrection in the
Herzegovina is still extending. An insur-
rectionary movement broke out at five dif-
ferent places in th4 district of Bolial Behar,
in Bosnia, having altogether a population
of 5,000 souls.

Ixdia. — The earthworks of the Eastern
Bengal Railway are now almost completed,
and the great expenditure which has been
going on upon them will cease, so that there
will De full employment for [the balance
of the Famine Relief Fund in feeding the
sufferers from inundation in Lower Bengal.
The roads and bridges all over the country
are cut up and broken down ; for we have
been several days, either without mails
at all, or receiving them very irregularly.

West Africa. — Another of those diaboli-
cal massacres which are a stigma on civiliza-
tion was about to be carried into effect at
Dahomey. The cannibal King was going
to have another "grand custom." This
sacrifice was to celebrate the new yam sea-
son, and the preparations were of the most
complete character. All the principal na-
tives and traders at Lagos had received in-
vitations to be present to witness the cere-
mony of cutting off the heads of about 2,000
beings.

Digitized by

762 POETRY.-

Ajcxuca. — Colonel Evans Reports that he
was engaged most of the 21st October with
twelve regiments and five batteries of the
enemy near the Potomac. They-had crossed
under cover of artillery fire. He drove
them back with a heavy loss in killed, two
hundred prisoners, and six field pieces
taken. He had four regiments and five

Suns." The Examiner announces the
eath of General Baker and the capture of
Colonel Cogswell and ten other officers, not
naming them. It further states that
Colonel Evans' command were from Missis-
sippi &nd Virginia, the three Mississippi
regiments being commanded by Colonels
Featherstone, Burt, and Barksdale. Ano-
ther despatch, reported by the Examiner to
have been received at the War Department
at Richmond as late as ten o'clock on Tues-
day night, states the loss of the Federals to
have Deen in killed and wounded about
1,000, with 600 prisoners taken, and 1,200
stand of arms. The Richmond Despatch
* of the 23rd ult contains the following offi-
cial from Thomas Jordan, Adjutant-Gene-
ral, headquarters of the army of Potomac: —

-WANTED.

"In addition, concerning the victory of
General Evans, I have to report tha ofevture
of nearly 600 prisoners and 1,200 sftffia of
arms. Their killed and wounded prisoners
amount to between 1,000 and 1,200. The
rout was total. The fight was an infantry
engagement exclusively. The force* en-
gaged were the 8th Virginia and 17th and
18th Mississippi regiments being held in re-
serve. No artillery was fired by us. n A
telegraphic despatch to the Richmond Des-
patch, from Manassas, dated the afternoon
of the 22nd, says— "The fight near Lees-
burg was* more serious than first reported.
520 Federals were brought to Sudley Church
this evening. Between 400 and 600 of the
enemy were killed, and 300 drowned in the
Potomac. Our loss is also heavy, say 800
killed and wounded. 1 ' An immense naval
expedition sailed for an unknown destina-
tion on the coast of the Atlantic cotton
States at the end of October, containing
all necessary materials for carrying on
a campaign. Supplies for the artillery and
cavalry horses went in the transports.

POETRY.

LINES ON THE DEATH OF ELDER WILLIAM M'KAY.

Death, that greedy ruthless monster,
Has been on our path again,

And has ta'en from us a brother ;
But he will not thus remain.
We shall see him,

When the Saints shall come to reign.

When he heard the truths of heaven
Taught by Inspiration's power,

Through our martyred Prophet given,
He believed that very hour.
He obeyed it,

And enjoyed the Spirit* s power.

Oft I've heard in testimciny
Streaming from his tender heart,

How he dearly prized the Gospel,
And what Joy it did impart.
And he lived it.

Till the Spirit said, " Depart."

Belfast.

I was there before he left us,
And I heard his warning voice,

Bidding those who stood beside him
Make the truth their only choioa.
Saints and strangers

Saw how much his soul rejoiced.

Oft I think, And has he left us?

Will he never come again ?
And the Spirit seems to whisper,

" Yes, he'll come with Christ to reign.
When the earth is
Cleansed from every blot and •tain.'*

Then, ye mourners, cease your weeping;

Wipe your tears of grief away :
Soon Death's chaius he'll burst asunder.

On the resurrection day
He will come forth,
Never more to feel decay.

Thomas Caawiwr.

Warn©— No. 6, Deteret Newt, present volume. If any of the Elders have a copy, an immediate loan of
the same would be thankfully received at this Offlee,

"Try the Spirits-— A Key to Spiritism 747

History of Joseph Smith 751

Editorial.— Retributive Justice— The Enemies of
the Church Guilty of the Crimes Charged on

the Saints.— Notice to Book Agents 78ft

Correspondence.— Scotland : Letter from Elder
D. M. Stuart— Holland: Letter from Elders

C0NTSNT8.

Van der Wonde and Paul A. 8chettler. —
Swiss and Italian Mission : Letter from Elder
John L. Smith.— England : Letter from Elder

J. S. Brown M 759

Summary of News and Passing Events..-..^ 7*1

Poetry.- Lines on the Death of Elder W. M'Kay 7*2
Wanted „ 715

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 4f, ISLINGTON.

LONDON: -
FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DEPOT, 30, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STREET.
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

m A noiu tkaU corns even to the ends of the eetrth ; for theJ^he&meontroiw'eyYMthenetiont: he will
plead with all flesh; he willgive them, that are wicked to the tword, saiththe Lord."— Jsrimiah.

No. 48, Vol. XXIII. Saturday, Nov. 30, 1881. Price One Penny.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD AT LIVERPOOL, NOVEMBER 10, 1861,

Present — Of tbe Quorum of the
Twelve, Amasa M. Lyman, Charles C.
Rich, and George Q. Cannon ; President
of the District, John M. Kay ; Presi-
dent of the Conference, Edward L.
Sloan;. President of the Manchester
Conference, W. H. Dame ; Travelling
Elder, R. A. McBride.

Conference called to order by singing
"How firm a foundation." Prayer by
Elder Kay.

Elder Kay, in a few opening re-
marks, said he was glad to meet with
the Saints in the capacity of a Confer-
ence ; and inasmuch as the Saints had
come together with one object in view —
that of being blessed of God, it was their
privilege to enjoy the Spirit of God and
be blessed in their assembling together.
The various Branch Presidents would
l)e called upon to give a report of
their fields of labour. He gave some
appropriate instructions, and prayed
that the Spirit of God would be in our
midst to bless us throughout the day.

Elder Dame said he felt it quite a
treat to have the privilege of meeting
with the Saints in Liverpool. It seemed
to him like coming a little nearer home,
this being the point of embarkation for
the gathering Saints from these lands ;
and no doubt in a short time many
would leave this port journeying to their
home in the mountains, He felt to

rejoice in the work of the Lord, and
exhorted the Saints to be diligent in
their duties and cultivate the Spirit of
God.

Elder McBride, felt thankful in moot-
ing with the Saints, and expressed his
feelings relative to the work of God, de-
claring his belief that now was the time
to labour to good advantage in spread-
ing the principles of the Gospel and in
bearing a faithful testimony to the
people.

Tne Branch Presidents then gave in
a report of their various fields of labour ;
after which, Elder Sloan reported the
condition of the Conference generally,
and read the Statistical and Financial
Reports. The Conference be repre-
sented as numbering 528 members, 37
having been baptized during the past
four months ; the Saints, as a whole,
being in a good condition, with a spirit
of improvement and progression exist-
ing among them. The prospects for
future prosperity were bright, a spirit of
inquiry being manifested by numbers
unconnected with the Church.

After a few remarks, by Elder
Kay, who stated that he had listened
with satisfaction to the reports of the
brethren, and urged upon tnem the ne-
cessity that existed for their exercising
continued and increased diligence in the
discharge of the duties that devolved

Digitized by Google

764 MINUTB8 OF

upon them as Elders in Israel in carry-
ing the Gospel of salvation to those who
had not yet embraced it, the meeting
was addressed for a short time by Pre-
sident Cannon, of which > the following
is a brief synopsis : —

"I do not feel to detain yon long, as I
am suffering from a severe cold ; still I
rejoice in meeting with you this morning,
and in hearing the favourable reports
which have been given. The time now
is indeed favourable for the Elders to be
alive and diligent in all things pertain-
ing to the rolling forth of the work of
God. Brethren and sisters, God islabour-
ing with us, his Spirit is being poured
out, and he has given unto us this fa-
vourable opportunity for proclaiming the
truth ; therefore it is our duty to teach
and spread the principles of the Gospel
while it is yet day, for there is a night
of trouble and distress coming upon the
nations of the earth, and the Saints who
remain in Babylon will feel it also. I
cannot say when this night of deep
trouble will close in upon us, put we know
that it cannot be long deferred ; and if the
Saints wish to free themselves from the
calamities that are close at hand, now is
the time to labour for the accomplish-
ment of that object. Let every one use
the day of opportunities afforded him,
and strive to gather away from these
lands ; and let tho Elders not weary in
well doing, but let them lift up the
warning voice, each in his own neigh-
bourhood, and warn the people. It
is true 1 that God will hold us respon-
sible for the warning of the people ; and
if we fail to warn them, their blood will
be found upon our skirts. God has done
his part ; he has restored the Gospel
and bestowed upon men the keys of the
kingdom. It then devolves -upon
the Priesthood to carry that Gos-
pel to the people, so that the honest in
heart may be gathered in. The spirit
of opposition reported to exist in some
parts is somewhat unusual at the pre*
sent time; still I have no doubt but
that the feeling of the people is much
milder in those places now than it was
some time since. In fact, this is the
case all through the Mission, and the
prospects are very bright in all parts of
the country. When the servants of God
first began to preach the Gospel in
these lands, thousands believed and
were added to the Church, many of

A CONFERENCE*

whom have gathered home to Zion.
Since then the Elders have laboured
with diligence, having much opposition
to contend with. In all this God had,
doubtless, a wise purpose in view. It
will be remembered that when Presi-
dents Pratt and Benson were here, the
spirit of opposition stirred up thepeople
fiercely and bitterly against the Saints.
They were mobbed in tho streets, mo-
lested in their meetings, had their halls
broken into, and suffered from a portion
of that spirit of persecution which raged
against the Church throughout the world
at that time. That spirit has calmed
down in a' great degree, and the Elders
can preach publicly in the streets, in

E laces where then they could scarcely
old meetings in their appointed halls.
God has been labouring with us, his
Spirit has been poured out, and be has
given us this favourable opportunity to
bear our testimony to the people, that,
if they will, they may escape the judg-
ments which are hanging over the
nations of the earth. This is the view
I take of ibis interval of peace which
we enjoy throughout the Mission and
the good feelings that are being mani-
fested towards us by the people.
Therefore let me impress upon you the
necessity of your being fully awake to
a sense of your position, neglecting no
opportunity of striving to gather up to
Zion, and thus swell the number of
those who are there and who desire to
serve God. By this means you will
escape that day of trouble and misery
that is nigh r.t hand, and bear a power-
ful and irrefragable testimony to the
world.

There is one item I wish to mention,
and that is connected with the finances.
I am glad to see the plan that has
lately been adopted throughout the
Conferences of reading the financial
statements of the amounts received and
expended, as it tends to the removal of
any feeling of distrust which might have
existed in the minds of any of the
Saints relative to the disbursement of the
means donated for the support of the
work. I am gratified to see a move
taking place calculated to dispel any
such distrust from the minds of the
Saints, and it will likewise have a ten-
dency to check any disposition to be
extravagant, though I am not aware
that there has been anything of the

Digitized by LjOOglC

MINT/TB8 OF A COtfFKRBtfC*.

765

kind since X became connected with tie
Mission. On the contrary, the Elders
have been economical in their expen-
diture. Yon are all aware how the
Mission Fund is disposed of, and it would
have been to me often a matter of sur
prise how tho brethren got along with
so little, if I did not know that they had
done their duty, and carefully husbanded
the means at their disposal : and
though I do not think any man is en
titled to any particular credit for doing
his duty, still I am glad to see the
Elders pursuing this course. In rela-
tion to Tithing, all that is paid under
that head is put down as such, and is
held subject to the order of the Trus-
tee-in-trust, and is expended only as
he directs. I trust that the Spirit of
God will be with us throughout the day,
and that you will exercise your faith on
behalf of those who may speak. May
the Lord bless you i Amen."

After singing "Praise .God from
whom all blessings flow," the meeting
was dismissed with prayer by Elder
Sloan.

At half-past two p.m. the meeting
was called to order by singing " Let
Judah rejoice." Prayer by Elder
Dame.

President Rich then addressed the
congregation. He said —

41 1 feel very thankful to-day to enjoy
the privilege of meeting with the Saints
in Liverpool. We have not enjoyed
this privilege for some time past; still
we have enjoyed the privilege of
meeting with the Saints in other and
far-off places since we last met with
you in this room. This has been & feast
to us while we have been separated
from you, and I trust this feast will
continue, for it is sweet to mingle with
the Saints in their assemblings together
and enjoy the outpourings of the Spirit
of God. I consider it a great blessing
to meet with the Saints in Conference,
to transact such business as appertains
to the kingdom of God ; and whatever
concerns the kingdom of God concerns
us individually as members of that
kingdom; consequently, in labouring
to promote its interests we are working
%o secure blessings for ourselves. It is
common at Conferences to present before
the people the^ authorities of the Church
for their approval or disapproval, com-

mencing with the First Presidency ,and
continuing dpwnwards, that all the
authorities in the Church may be ap- <
proved of by the Saints, if they feeli to
sustain them; consequently, I will
present, this afternoon, the authorities,
to know the sentiments of the Saints
with regard to them, that we may learn
if they are willing to sustain them, by
their faith, prayers, and confidence. •
I wish it to be understood that we are
all free-agents; and in being called
upon to express our feelings concern-
ing the men who are placed to preside,
an opportunity is afforded us of declar-
ing ^distinctly by the uplifted hand our
sentiments with regard to them. There-
fore, when we vote to sustain individuals,
we should do it with a hearty goodwill
and an honest determination that we
will sustain them. If we do this, our
prayers will ascend to the heavens witb
power on their behalf, and call down
the blessings of God upon every indi-
vidual that is placed in a responsible ,
position to direct affairs in the various
departments of the Church, whether
they may be the Presidency of the whole
Church, the Presidency of a Mission, a
District or Conference President, or the
President of a Branch. I will now
present before you the authorities.
[The authorities were then presented,
commencing with the First Presidency
in Zion, and continuing down to the
Branch Presidents through the Con-
ference. Every vote was carried unani-
mously.] I feel thankful to see the
unanimity of sentiment manifested by
the Saints in their voting this after-
noon. This is characteristic of the
Saints in every place you can firnjl
them, and is a proof that the Spirit oJT
truth, which is the spirit of unity, ip
with them, The Lord has said,
" Except ye are one, ye are not mine.*'
When we can see eye to eye in our
votings, it is a commencement of thai
unity towards the perfection of which
the Saints are progressing, and whic^i
will be produced by their receiving the
principles of truth, We may talk of
being united,; the world may talk of
becoming united j but there is only one
means by, which they ever can become
united, and thafr is by understanding
correct grinciples, even the principles- c
life aivL < safvatjon^-those principles
whici have been revealed from !"

MTNUTKS OF

A CONFLUENCE.

heavens for man's salvation. Oonse-

auently, it is easy for us to understand
lat if we are not one, we are not the

• ford's; and if we are not his, we cannot
» be in a position to practise true and
. correct* principles, which he only reveals
' to his children who seek to live purely
v before | him and keep his command- ,

merits., Therefore, we can see the
4 necessity of digging deep and laying a
sure ana solid foundation ; for if we do
not, the time will come when our
houses will be shaken and fall in ruins ;

• and we can only be grounded upon the
principles of the Gospel by practising
them in our lives.

i I feel that we are greatly blessed as a
.people. Whether we feel it or not, we

• are truly blessed. I cannot think of
anything which the Lord should have

» done for us, that he has not done ; and
if wo are not blessed, it must be our
. .'own fault. We might ask the ques-
> tion, What has the Lord done for us,
. that we are so much blessed P He has
^revealed, in our day, that Gospel by
... which men have been saved in every
age when it was upon the earth; and
i we happen to live in that part of the

• world where this Gospel is preached,

• and have the privilege of practising its
^ principles. We live when men have
.'been ordained to administerthe blessings
. of the everlasting Gospel to mankind

«pon the earth — blessings which we can
"receive and enjoy. Well, then, what
v more could the Lord have done for us,
when the very blessings by which we
r can be saved are brought within our
I reach P If we dp not cLoose to adopt
♦.them, whose fault is it P We are free

• agents before God, and can reject every-
thing that is good, if we are disposed so
to do ; or we can cling to and love the
•truth as it is revealed unto us. Cur
.'jpaat history as individuals will prove
•lunto us that we can stretch our hands
•forth to do good, or we can stretch them
.forth to do evil. We require no person
'to prove this unto us, for the circum-
stances of our lives are proving it con-
tinually to our understandings, if we will
4>nly exercise them. Our Father has
done his part, because he has revealed
the principles of the Gospel to us, but
we must remember that it is one thing
for us to say that we accept and receive
and love the truth, and another thing to
do so. This is the point. Itisforusto

knotp whether we possess the principles
of the Gospel. If we do, we have every
reason to rejoice and to wear a smile
upon our countenances ; if we do not,
we have reason to mourn. It would be
well for us to have the curtain of igno-
rance which veils the minds of the
human family at the present time with-
drawn, that we might understand cor-
rectly how we are to be saved. The
idea in the world is that if we only
make a profession of serving God,
attend church, and offer up a few
prayers, we shall enter heaven and en-
joy full felicity in the presence of the
Lord. How much this is opposed to the
true means by which salvation is ob-
tained, we can easily discover. I have
often wondered how it is that people
flatter themselves they will be saved —
how it is they believe that they are
going to enjoy eternal happiness in the
presence of God, while they live in ig-
norance of his laws and in opposition to
bis commandments. I see this vail
covering the minds of the human family
now — a vail of darkness and ignorance';
and if we are hunting for something
which we cannot obtain whereby
to gain salvation, as they are
doing with regard to the truth, we
are no better than they are, having no
other means of knowing the truth than
the world of mankind have at the present
time. We want this curtain removed,
and we do not want to wait till we get to
the other side of the vail before we know
whether we are pursuing a course ac-
ceptable before God. If we under-
stand what we are doing, we can tell
whether we are serving God or not ; we
can tell whether we are prepared for
heaven or not prepared for it. The
world hope it will De well with them
when they get beyond the vail, and look
forward with doubt and uncertainty to
the day of judgment, believing that then
they will really know their position
before the Lord. The day of judgment
should be with the Saints all the time,
and the principles of truth ever before
their eyes ; then they would walk in
the light, and would not be in darkness,
committing corrupting acts from time to
time.

I told you that the blessings which we
are privileged to enjoy are all that we
can expect to enjoy, and that the Lord
has done all that he can do, unless wo

MINUTES OF A

•will do something for ourselves.
That something can only he done by us,
and we can either do it or leave it un-
done. This Gospel proposes to save us
— to give unto us a complete salvation
wherever it finds us. It does not pro-
pose to bestow upon us all the blessings
included in this the first time we hear
it, simply because we are not in a con-
dition to enjoy then) ; but it gives them
onto us as we are prepared to receive
them. Then it is for us, when its prin-
ciples are offered to us, to embrace them.
The Qospel is not a simple meagre con-
cern, but we learn that it is the fulness
of the blessings that are to be enjoyed
in the eternal world. Still, the servants
of God can only administer these bles-
sings as the people are prepared to
receive them ; consequently they cannot
be enjoyed by the Saints any faster
than they themselves are prepared to
receive them. I have been a witness of
this during the past thirty years, and
the people have not been willing to
receive them as fast as God and his
servants wanted to pour them out upon
them. Could they have taken advan-
tage of the opportunities offered them P
Most assuredly they could, if they would
have done so.

There are two influences that we are
acquainted with. We all know that
there is good and evil. We know that
there is an influence which urges men
to do that which is right, and there is
an influence which urges them to do
wrong. We have the power to resist
evil, if we are disposed to do so. Well,
now, it is for us to find out what power
we are giving to this influence which leads
us to do wrong, that if we desire to do
right we may struggle against the
wrong ; for we are free agents, and will
be held to a strict account for the
use of our agency. If we do right,
blessings will be bestowed upon us ; if
-we do wrong, our rewaid will be ac-
cording to what we do. This considera-
tion should continually stir us up to
inquire whether we are doing right or
wrong. Every practice that is corrupt
should be rejected by us ; for if this is
not the case, we aie doing wroug and
giving influences dominion over us that
are from beneath. There are in reality
but two courses of action — the good and
the bad; one leads to light and life
eternal, the other leads to misery and

CONFEBENCB. 767

woe; . We aye on the track of one ©fcy
these. The Gospel bring* us tfie prin- '
ciples' which will save us; and if we live ;4
the truths which are revealed in it, they •
will enter into our organization andl •
govern all our actions. If we are not
doing wrong, most assuredly we are >
justified ; and if we allow the principles t
of truth to grow in us, we are in the path n
that leads to eternal salvation. The j.
object of all that we do as Saints of Gobi $
is that we may grow in the knowledge •
of the truth, and eventually learn to $
know God, the fountain of truth. When' t
we get to know Him, we most assuredly '*
shall know ourselves ; and when we know >
that, we Bhall understand aright our"*
true position, and gain power to control '
ourselves according to the laws of *
righteousness. It is of no use for the /
world to talk about having no revela- *
tionv for the Lord cannot have a people *
upon the earth without that principle. •
The Holy 8pirit makes manifest the t
the things or God ; consequently, if we *
enjoy the Spirit of the Lord, we possess''
this testimony, even revelation from *
God. This principle is not confined to #
a few, but is designed for all who will •
live to possess it, and it is by it that we i
can become one ; and when we enjoy it,
we can all see and understand the same
truth alike.

I rejoice that I live in a day and age
of the world when this principle is m
existence among men, for the time has
come when the kingdoms of the earth J
which are established upon any other 4
principle — which are torn asunder by ,
divisions and disunion — shall crumble to ,

Sieces. Every kingdom but the kinjj-* •
om of God will be overthrown, and it
will stand for ever. What is there »
that we lack to make us happy, when »
the Gospel of life, the revelations off
God, and the Holy Spirit are place*'
within our reach, which bring peace ?
and joy to the soul f If we do not pos-
the blessings, there is a reason for it,
and that rests within ourselves. In.'
the first place, we have spirits, and these; >
spirits dwell in tabernacles. When the ;
evil is presented to us, what is the first,
thing we do P We must first consent •
in our feelings that we will do wronjg*
before the wrong is done. The spirrtY
animates the tabernacle and moves it to/
action ; hence, when we consent to do*
wrong in our feelings, the spirit hasj

Digitized by

7*8

been corrupted ; for the spirit must be
frilling before the wrong can be com-
mitted. My hand would not be put
forth to steal, if my mind did not first
consent to it ; my tongue would not be
jnsea 1 to lie or to blaspheme, unless my
spirit consented: therefore, if we
govern our spirits, our tabernacles
will be obedient to them. If We want
to keep our tabernacles pure, we must
keep the spirits pure which inhabit
them. It is the spirit that controls.
Then we must look out that we are not
corrupted in our spirits ; for if we are,
the Devil will bring us down in sorrow.
We must keep ourselves pure and holy,
for the Lord willeth to come and be
with us; and he will not do so, unless we
keep ourselves holy and pure. I would
■106 go and live with a poor, filthy, mise-
rable wretch, who would not keep him-
self pure, and who lived in the midst of
corruption and wrong. How, then, can
we expect God to come and dwell with
us, until we become purified and pre-
pared for his presence P Therefore, let
its sanctify ourselves that we may enjoy
this blessing. This part of the work is

KUrrOBT OF JOSEPH SMITH.

ours. Our God will not be slack m
performing his. We shall not have to
wait a day, nor a moment, for his bles-
sings, when we are ready to receive)
them. But there is no blessing can
come out of corruption, neither any sal-
vation in this or the eternal world.
Well, we want to be saved now and
through eternity. If we have not this
desire, we do not enjoy the blessings of
the Gospel ; consequently, we have not
received it. If we know we are saved
now, we have no reason to fear that the
same principles will not save us in time
to come. The keys 'and powers of the
Holy Priesthood that have been conferred
upon man in this age have been the
medium through which we have re-
ceived every blessing of the Gospel
which we now enjoy ; and if we remain
faithful, the same medium will bestow
upon us every blessing as we are pre-
pared to receive it.

I would exhort you, as Saints, to be
humble and faithful before God, and
diligent in the discharge of everyduty;
and I pray that the Lord may continue to
bless you, in the name of Jesus. Amen."

(To b* continued.)

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

{Oomtkmtd from p*Q4 755.)

llayor continued — And when Foster
left his house, he went to a shoe-shop on
the hill, and reported that Joseph said to
Irim, if he wtuld come back he would give
Mm Law's place in the Church, and a nat-

nof specie,
■ucien Wood worth sworn. Said that the
conversation as stated by the Mayor was
correct Was at the Mansion June 7th,
when Dr. Foster rode up and inquired if
Gen. Smith was at home. Dr. Foster
Went into the house; witness followed.
Br. Foster was there, the General, and
others, looking at some specimens of pen-
manship. Something was said respecting
• conversion at that time between the
General and Doctor. Gen. Smith observed
to Foster, if he had a conversation, he
Would want others present The Doctor
amid he would have a word with him by
famself, and went into the hall Witness
went to the door that he might see and
■ear what was passing. They still con-
tinued to talk on the subject of a con-
versation that they might have afterwards
with- others present whom Mr. Smith
and Foster might choose. Foster left,
sad went for those that he said he wanted

present, and would return soon with,
them. He heard all the conversation,
Heard nothing about Gen. Smith's making
any offers to Foster to settle. Was pre-
sent all the time. Dimick Huntington,
said he had seen Foster and talked with
him.

Mayor said he wished it distinctly un-
derstood that he knew nothing about
Dimick Huntington going to see Foster.

Woodworth said he sent Dimick Hunt-
ington to Foster, and Joseph knew nothing
about it

Councillor H. Smith said Dimick Hunt-
ington came to him on the 7th inst and
said he had had an interview with Dr.
Foster, and thought he was about ready
to come back, and a word from him or
Joseph would bringit about

Mayor said — 'The conduct of sucH
men and such papers are calculated to
destroy the peace of the city, and it is
not safe that such things should exist, Ofe
account of the mob spirit which they tend
to produce.' He had made the statements
he had, and called the witnesses to pie-
pare the council to act in the case.

Emmons was blackguarded out of Phila-

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOfSPH SXXTB.

delphia, and dubbed with the title of
Judge (as he had understood from citizens
of Philadelphia) ; was poor, and Mayor
helped him to cloth for a coat before he
went away last fall, and he (Emmons)
*aboured all winter to get the post-office
from Mr. Rigdon (as informed).

Mayor referred to a writing from Dr.
Goforth, showing that the Laws presented
the communication from the ' Female
Belief Society' in the Nauvoo Neighbour
to Dr. Goforth as the bone of contention,
and said, if God ever spoke by any man,
it will not be five years before this city is
in ashes and we in our graves, unless we
go to Oregon, California, or some other
place, if the city does not put down every-
thing which tends to in+bocracy, and put
down murderers, bogus-makers, and
scoundrels. All the sorrow he ever had
in his family in this city has arisen
through the influence of William Law.

Councillor fl. Smith spoke in relation
to the Laws, Fosters, Higbees, editor of
the Signal, &&, and of the importance of
suppressing that spirit which has driven
us from Missouri, Ac ; that he would go
in for an effective ordinance.

Mayor said, at the time Governor Carlin
was pursuing him with his writs, William
Law came to his house with a band of
Missourians for the purpose of betraying
him. Came to his gate, and was pre-
vented by Daniel Carn, who was set to
watch. Law came within his gate and
called ' Mayor,' and the Mayor reproved
Law for coming at that time of night with
a company of strangers.

Daniel Oarn sworn. Said that about 10
o'clock at night a boat came up the river
with about a dozen men. William Law
came to the gate with them. Witness,
on guard, stopped them. Law called
Joseph to the door, and wanted an inter-
view. Joseph said — 'Brother Law, you
know better than to come here at this
hour of the night,' and Law retired.
Next, morning Law wrote a letter to
apologize, which witness heard read,
whieh was written apparently to screen
himself from the censure of a conspiracy ;
and the letter betrayed a conspiracy on
the face of it.

Adjourned at half -past 6 p.m., till
Monday, 10th, at 10 o'clock a.m.

Adjourned session, June 10th, 10
o'clock, a. m. Alderman Harris presiding.

Mayor referred to Dr. Foster, and again
read his letter of the 7th instant (as
before quoted).

Cyrus Hills (a stranger) sworn. Said one
day last week, believed it Wednesday, a
gentleman whom witness did not know,
came into the sitting-room of the Nauvoo
Mansion, and requested the Hon, Mayor

760

to step aside ; he wanted to speak with
him. Mayor stepped through the door
into the entry by the foot of the stairs,
and tiie General (Mayor) asked him what
he wished? Foster (as witness learned
since was his name) said he wanted some
conversation on some business witness
did not understand at the time. The
General refused to go any farther, and
said he would have no conversation in
private, and what should be said should
be in public ; and told Foster, if he would
choose three or four men, he would nSeet
him with the same -number of men (among
whom was his brother Hyrum), ana
they would have a cool and calm investi-
gation of the subject ; and by his making
a proper satisfaction, things should be
honourably adjusted. Witness judged,
from the manner in which Foster ex-

S rested himself, that he agreed to the
f ayor's proposals, and would meet him
the same day in the presence of friends.
Heard no proposals made by Mayor to
Foster for settlement. Heard nothing
about any ofifers of dollars, or money, or
any other offer except those mentioned
before. Nothing said about William
Law. Was within hearing of the parties
at the time conversation was going on.

O. P. Rockwell sworn. Some day last
week sawDr. Foster ride up to the Nauvoo
Mansion and go in. Witness went in
and found the Mayor and Dr. Foster in
conversation* General Smith was naming
the men he would have present, among
whom were Hyrum Smith, William Marks,
Lucien Wood worth, and Peter Haws;
and Dr. Foster had leave to call an equal
number of his friends, as witness under-
stood, for the purpose of having an inter-
view on some matters in contention.

The Doctor's brother was proposed.
General said he had no objection ; wanted
him present. Dr. Foster started, saying
he would be back shortly. Before Dr.
Foster left, the men whom General Smith
had named to be present at the conversa-
tion were sent for.

Cross-examined. Witness went into
the house as Mayor and Dr. Foster were
coming out of the bar-room into the hall.
Nothing said by the Mayor to Dr. Foster
about his coming back. Made no offer to
Foster about a settlement.

Mayor said the first thing that occurred
to his mind, when he stepped into the hall
with Foster, was that he wanted to assas-
sinate him. He saw something shining
below his vest Mayor put his finger on
it and said — ' What is that ? Foster re-
plied — • It is my pistol,' and immediately
took out the pistol, and showed it openly,
and wanted the Mayor to go with him
alonel Mayor said he would not go alone.

Digitized by

Google

770 HISTORY OP

Mayor never saw the pistol before. Had
a hook on its side to hang on nis waist-
band.

Andrew L. Lamoreaux sworn. Said that
in 1839 or '40, while President Joseph
Smith, Elder Rigdon, Judge Higbee, O.
P. Rockwell, and Dr. R D. Foster were
on their way to Washington, called at
witness' house in Dayton, Ohio ; that the
evening was spent very agreeably, except
some dissatisfaction on the part of certain
females with regard to the conduct of Dr.
Foster. On their return from Washing-
ton, witness informed President Smith of
Foster's conduct. President Smith said
he had frequently reproved Foster for
such conduct, and he had promised to do
better, and told witness to reprove Foster,
if he saw anything out of the way. That
evening Foster refused to join the com-
pany, and walked through the town till
about 8 o'clock, when he came in and
interrupted President Smith, who was
expounding some passages of Scripture,
and changed the conversation. Soon
after the company "were invited to Mr.
Brown's at the next door, whither they
all repaired. While at Mr. Brown's,
conversation was going on, and the room
much crowded. Dr. Foster and one of the
ladies he had paid so much attention to
before took their seats in one corner of
the room. Witness heard her state to
Dr. Foster that she supposed she had
been enciente for some time back, but had
been disappointed, and supposed it was
on account of her weakness, and wanted
Foster to prescribe something for her.
Foster said he could do it for her, and
dropped his hand to her feet, and began
to raise it. She gave him a slight push,
and threw herself close to the wall. He
laid his hand on her knee, and whispered
so low that witness could not hear. Next
morning witness went in while Foster
and others were at breakfast, and related
what he had seen. Foster denied it.
President Smith told him not to deny it,
for he saw it himself, and was ashamed
of it. Foster confessed it was true, and
promised to reform.

Peter Haws sworn. Said that he came
to Nauvoo before the Laws, and brought
considerable property. It was a short
time after the Church had been driven
out of Missouri, and had arrived in this
place. The families, having been robbed
of all in Missouri, were in a starving con-
dition. By the council of the Presidency,
witness converted his funds to feeding
the poor, bringing in meat and flour, Ac ;
and while thus engaged, drew upon the
Laws, who were at that time engaged in
merchandise, to the amount of some six
hundred dollars, which, on account of

JOSBPH 8MITH.

expenditure for the poor, he was not able
to pay to within 70 or 80 dollars, which
they pressed him for as soon as they
wanted it, although he offered them good
property at considerable less than the
market value, as witness was obliged to
leave the city on Church business for a
little season. William Law threatened
and intimidated witness' family during
his absence for the pay.

Dr. Foster made a public dinner on the
4th of July. Witness was obliged to be
absent, and deposited meat, flour, Ac,
with William Law, to give to the poor at
that dinner, and Law handed it out as
his own private property. Witness carried
a load of wheat to Law's mill to be ground.
Law would not grind it only to give a
certain quantity of flour in return by
weight. Law used up the flour, promising
from time to time he would refund it. As
witness was about to start on a mission
to the south, with his valise in hand, saw
Law before his door, talking with Hvrum
Smith. Called on Law, and told him he
was going away, and his family wanted
the flour. Law promised, on the honour
of a gentleman and a Saint, that his
family should have the flour when they
wanted.

Councillor H. Smith said he recollected
the time and circumstance.

Hawes said, when he retained he found
his family must have starved, if they had
not borrowed money to get food some-
where else ; could not get it of Law ; and
Law was preaching "punctuality, tvsctu-
ality, PUNCTUALITY, as the whole
drift of his discourses to the' Saints, and
abusing them himself all the time, and
grinding the poor.

Mayor said, if he had a City Council
who felt as he did, the establishment
(referring to the Nauvoo Expositor) would
be declared a nuisance before night ; and
he then read an editorial from the Nauvoo
Expositor. He then asked who ever said
a word against Judge Emmons until he
attacked this Council P or even against
Joseph H. Jackson or the Laws, until
they came out against the city ? Here ia
a paper ( Nauvoo Expositor J that is ex-
citing our enemies abroad. Joseph H.
J ackson had been proved a murderer oefore
this Council, and he declared the paper a
nuisance — a greater nuisance than a dead
carcase. They make it a criminality for
a man to have a wife no the earth while
he has one in heaven, according to the
keys of the Holy Priesthood; and be
then read a statement of William Law's
from the Expositor, where the truth of
God was transformed into a lie concerning
this thing. He then read several state-
ments of Austin Cowles in the Expositor

Digitized by

HISTOBY. Or JOSEPH SMITH.

771

concerning a private interview, and said
lie never had any private conversations
with Austin Cowlea on these subjects ;
that he preached on the stand from the
Bible, showing the order in ancient days.
What the opposition party want is to raise
a mob on us and take the spoil from us,
as they did in Missouri. He said it was
as much as he could do to keep his clerk,

Thompson, from publishing the proceed-
ings of the Laws and causing the people
to rise up against them. Said he would
rather die to-morrow and have the thing-
smashed, than live and have it go on ; for
it was exciting the spirit of mobocracy
among the people, and bringing death ana
destruction upon us.

(To b< continued.

THE LATTEll-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, November 30, 1861.

A MONTHLY PAST DAY.

In some of the Districts and Conferences in this Mission we find a Fast Day
regularly observed every month ; in others, if it was ever observed, it has fallen
into disuse. There seems to be a diversity of practice, and it may be of .opinion,
too, on the part of the Elders, respecting this observance, some attaching con-
siderable importance to it, others apparently never giving it a thought. It is
proper that there should be a unanimity of feeling and action upon this point
among the Saints ; for, if an observance of this kind is attended with good effects
in one part of the Mission, it is of such a nature as to be equally beneficial, if
properly observed, to all the remaining parts. Local causes do not disturb or
affect its general application.

That the practice of fasting occasionally, especially when united with prayer,
is beneficial, no Latter-day Saint who has had any experience in the matter, we
presume, will doubt. There may be exceptional instances where it might not be
wisdom to rigidly adhere to a general rule not intended to meet every special
ease. Persons may be weakly or ill, or there may be a palpable necessity for a
deviation from the practice. Under such circumstances, wisdom would plainly
teach that the rule would be more honoured in the breach than in the observance.
But where good health is enjoyed, and faith has been properly cultivated among
the Saints, we know of no reason to prevent their receiving benefit from it. If
the Saints had in their possession an abundance of this world's goods, the health-
ful results which would attend the occasional abstinence from food would more
than compensate them for any temporary inconvenience they might experience
from fasting, independently of the spiritual benefits which ever attend its proper
and prayerful observance. But there exists no necessity for us to urge it upon
the Saints in this country on these grounds. They are, generally speaking, poor,
and their stomachs are not overburdened nor their systems clogged by an excess
of food. We would recommend it to them as an observance worthy of their
adoption for other than physical reasons.

When the servants of God in ancient times had any great work to perform —
any difficult labour to accomplish or command to fulfil, that required a more than
ordinary amount of faith — they not unfrequently fasted and humbled themselves

Digitized by

772

SDXTOBIAI*.

before the Lord to obtain the necessary assistance and strength. The sons of
Mosiah, when they undertook that apparently unfeasible labour of converting the
Lamanites to the truth, had recourse to this method of obtaining assistance.
What they accomplished is a matter of history. The personal benefits they them-
selves derived from the practice are thus recorded: — "They had the Spirit of pro*
phecy and the Spirit of revelation; and when they taught, they taught with power
and authority of God." Glorious personal reward for* their self-denial, besides
the consolation of knowing that they had been instruments in the hands of the
Lord in bringing thousands of benighted souls to a knowledge of the truth !

Among the Saints of God in Utah it is a custom to observe, when practicable,
the first Thursday in every month as a day of fasting and prayer. The food, or
its equivalent, that each family or person would have consumed that day, had
they not fasted, is carried to the Bishops of the different Wards, and by them it
is distributed to the poor. All hearts are thus made glad — the poor by having their
wants relieved, and those who have and to spare by undoing the heavy burdens
and dealing their bread to the hungry. This is the fast the Lord told Israel in
ancient times, through his Prophet Isaiah (ohap. 58), he had chosen. In this
country, when a day of this kind has been observed by the Saints, the first Sunday
in every month has been that day. It suits the circumstances of the people
better than any other. We have thought that it Would be wise, in view of the
winter upon which we have just entered and the hard times which seem to be
impending, to suggest to the Elders and Saints a general observance of the first
Sunday in every month as a day of fasting and prayer, that there may be si
concord of action and a unanimity of feeling throughout the Mission, and that
the poor may not go hungry in our midst, if we can prevent it. If the Saints
enter into this matter in the right spirit, they may rest assured that the blessings
of the Lord will rest upon them. If they who are able will sacredly devote the
means for the benefit of the poor that they would have to spend for food, if they
did not fast, they will have the pleasure of lightening others' burdens and
alleviating their sore wants, and have the satisfaction, besides, of knowing that
they have received direct personal benefit themselves. This may not be all thai
will be necessary for us to do to relieve the poor, yet it will be a material con-
tribution towards doing so.

We trust that it is unnecessary for us to urge upon the presiding officers the
propriety and absolute necessity of their doing all in their power to see that none*
who can possibly be relieved, suffer in their fields of labour. Their own sense of
duty, we are sure, will teach them this. The poor are threatened with a hard winter.
It is the duty of the Elders to seek earnestly for that wisdom and power which will
enable them to counsel and devise plans and means to enable the Saints to
struggle through it ; and it is the duty of the Saints to seek unceasingly, by *
union of faith and works, to help themselves and to escape from Babylon. The
observance of a day of fasting and prayer occasionally will not be without its
effects in accomplishing all these objects.

Drbadful Efpbots of Civil Strife. — We extract the following paragraph
from the correspondence of Dr. Russell, the " special correspondent" of tne London
Times, in the United States. It is one paragraph out of many of the kind itoijig
the round of the American papers, and shows up in strong colours the dreadful
effects of the unhappy strife now raging between the South and the North : —

" The division of families caused by the war, particularly in some of the border States, is

Digitized by

editorial. 778

painfully illustrated in two instances. A Louisville correspondent of fhefincinnati Com*
mtreial writes as follows : — - '••

** ' Captain Henry Clay, wbo has just received a commission as Assistant- Adjutant
under Brigadier-General Richard W. Johnson, is a young man of fine abilities, a West
Pointer, though not a graduate, and of undoubted and of strong Union sentiments. His
position is a very strange one, and is one among the many romantic stories of the day.
His grandfather was the Sage of Ashland, [the statesman Henry Clay,] and his father
died at Buena Vista. His uncle, James B. Clay, is a violent Secessionist, now under
bonds to appear for trial for treason. Another uncle — Thomas, in the United States' ser-
vice — is responsible for the appearance for trial of James B. Clav. A brother, Thomas
Clay, Jun., is on the staff of General Beauregard, the Commander-in-Chief of the Con-
federate army. His sister's husband, with whom young Clay resides in this city, has
lately entered the United States' service, with two other brothers, for the war ; ana now
comes young Henry's turn, and he accepts the unsolicited commission which Gene-
ral Johnson has tendered him.'

" Here is another example : —

" 4 John J. Crittenden has one son who is a Brigadier-General in the rebel service, after
having served and been honoured by the Government for many years. Another son is a
Brigadier-General in the army of the Union, but holding toe commission from the
State of Kentucky. Another holds the rank of Captain in the Federal army. John J.
Crittenden himself, at the age of 76, bears arms as a private in the Home Guard of
Frankfort."

What a war of savagery mast that be which arrays brother against brother
and father against son, divides families, extinguishes all love of. kindred, rends
asunder the holiest and most binding ties of friendship, and reduces man to a
level with the ravening beast of prey, in whose breast the instinct of pity or
mercy finds no place ! — a war which enkindles the fires of hell in the human
breast, and prompts man to commit deeds of blood and violence upon those with
whom but a few short months ago they associated in the most loving and friendly
terms !— a war which has produced such a transformation in men and women,
that acts which they now take pleasure in would, if barely contemplated at that
time, have been recoiled from with horror! Well may Dr. Russell say, in
reference to the contending supplications whieh were offered up from both North
and South during the continuance of a severe storm which threatened the fleet
fitted out by the North for a descent on the South — the North praying for its
safety, and the South for its destruction — that " it will take many cannon and
many bayonets to make these Northerners and Southerners pray alike!"
Nothing but death or overwhelming calamity will ever quell the wild storm of
passion which has been awakened in their bosoms.

Hull Conference. — A Conference was held in Hull on Sunday, Nov., 10th,
at which were present, among others of the Priesthood, Elder Joseph F. Smith,
District President ; Charles Welch, Conference President ; John Clark, of the
Sheffield Conference, and William Shires, of the Leeds Conference. Elder Joseph
F. Smith occupied the morning's meeting with remarks upon various points con-
nected with the religion of the Saints ; and in the afternoon Elder Welch reported
the condition of the Conference, showing that during the present year 34 had
been added to the Church by baptism. Elder Joseph F. Smith then expressed
hissatisfaction with the reports which had been read, and the representations
which had been given of the Conference; after which he presented the authorities
of the Church as now organized, all of whom were sustained by the unanimous
vote of the Conference. In the evening Elder Clark addressed the meeting
at some length, closing with an appeal to the Saints to live their religion, and to
make every exertion to gather to Zion, that they might escape the pending
judgments of an offended God ; after which, Elder W. Shires boro testimony to
the truth of what Elder Clark had said, compared the spirit and doctrines df
Christ and bis Apostles with those of the Latter-day Saints, and counselled the

Digitized by

774 INDEPENDENCE OF ZION.

Saint* to be f%thful in all things, and to make' the subject of emigration their
constant study. Notwithstanding the forepart of the day was wet and disagree-
able, there was a good attendance of Saints and strangers, and the whole day-
was spent very agreeably.

INDEPENDENCE OF ZION.

BY ELDER JOSHUA WILLIAMS.

If Zion is to become independent,
that independency must be brought
about upon natural principles, and not
by any agencies that are termed in the
world "miraculous" or "supernatural."
For illustration, let us take the case'of
a child in its growth from the cradle to
its position as an independent man.
Its first attempt at talking is a mere
lisp ; and lisping it would remain, were
it not for the tuition and example of its
parent, So also with all its first at-
tempts, such as walking, &c. To the
parent it continually looks for the supply
of all its bodily wants, and so on up to
manhood, until it has learned from its
arents and others sufficient to enable
im to assume and maintain an inde-
pendent position.

As it is with individuals, so it is with
nations. We may take for an example
the rise, progress, and ultimate develop-
ment of the colony of America, which
was the child of England. That now vast
republic was first peopled from this
country, and for years depended upon
exports from the mother country or
fatherland to supply the chief of its
wants. But as the child grew in years
and strength, it felt the utter depen-
dency of its position, and strove to
supply its own requirements by the
adoption and promotion of home manu-
facture. It must be familiar to all that
means were adopted to encourage the
emigration of a certain class of emi-
grants, such as practical engineers — not,
of course, men who merely tend engines,
but men who knew by experience how
to apply the natural powers and
adjuncts of machinery to the pro-
duction from the raw material of the
various articles of manufacture for
which they had hitherto been entirely
dependent on importation, which were
inferior in quality, and besides had the
disadvantage of being heavily taxed.
It was years before this was all accom-

plished; but when accomplished, she
was then in a position to declare her
own independence.

Utah is a dependency of the United
States, and dependent it will literally
remain, until a course somewhat similar
is adopted to attain the same end —
independency.

How is this end to be attained ? By
strict observation on the part of intend-
ing emigrants while in this country, (I
allude to those more particularly en-
gaged in manufacturing districts,) to
acquire a thorough knowledge of their
various occupations ; such, for instance,
as weaving. Most weavers commence
business as helpers, until they become
weavers themselves, or able to tend
looms ; yet but few of these, even after
years of employment at their looms,
understand any thing of the construction
of the machine which they have tended
so long ; so that when any slight acci-
dent occurs to their loom, they are
compelled to call in the assistance of
the " overlooker ;" and if he is at the
time otherwise engaged, they must
wait, at considerable loss to themselves,
until he has opportunity to attend to
them. By diligence and observation, in-
quiry and study, such persons would
be able to acquire all the knowledge
necessary for that most essential arti-
cle, the weaving machine; so that
when they are gathered to Zion, they
would have the satisfaction of knowing
that they were adding their portion
towards the independence of the com-
munity of Saints.

Like the colony of America, theSaints
inUtah are dependent on the importations
fromtheStates of nearly all the manufac-
tured articles which they need. Although
the raw material is at hand in greater or
less quantity, they are at present unable
to use it with advantage tor themselves.
Thus annually a large sum is expended
in clothing, &c, which, instead of

Digitized by Google

INDEPENDENCE OF ZION.

775

enriching Zion, goes back to build up
Babylon. And should at any time
anything occur to stop the importation
' of these goods, great must be the dis-
comfiture and privation "which the;
Saints must in consequence endure. It
is impossible for Utah to occupy
an independent position as a nation on
the continent of America, until she can!
declare herself in a position to supply
all the wants of her continually-in-
creasing population.

Too little attention, unfortunately,
has been paid by perhaps the majority
of emigrants to Utah with regard to
qualifying themselves for usefulness in
an entirely new colony. Being accus-
tomed to the practice of divided labour,
which is carried out to a great extent
in all old established communities,
they forget that a single trade in large
communities is necessarily divided into
a number of branches; and in the
absence of one or more of these, the
working of the whole machinery, so to
speak, is consequently stopped.

We might take as an instance the
case of an engine-fitter, whose business
it is to take the castings and fit them
together, each in its proper place. But
if there are no castings, he of course is
unable to fit them; and his isolated
branch of the trade, to which he has
served a seven-years' apprenticeship,
and worked at for years more as a
journeyman, becomes comparatively
useless to him ; whereas, if he under-
stood the various processes to which the
Taw material is subjected previous to
coming to his hands, he would be com-
petent to direct the manufacture of the
entire machine from the raw material
to the completed article.

It may be objected by some that it is
impossible or impracticable for one man
to attain to this general knowledge in
any kind of manufacture. But the
objection is altogether futile. In the par-
ticular trade in question, the writer has
in mind at least one man in the Church
with whom he is personally ac-
quainted, who understands and is able
to direct the different processes from
the smelting of the iron ore to the pro-
duction of the finished article, as well
as to do it himself. It is not abso-
lutely necessary (although advantage-
bus) that one man should be able to do

all this himself manually, if he is com-
petent to direct others how to do it.

The custom of divided labour has ob-
tained to such an extent in these old
countries that it is almost impossible to
find a man who understands the whole
of his trade or business. Yet a thorough
knowledge of that business must be
possessed before each can add his occu-
pation as an assistant towards ulti-
matinjr, the independency of Zion.

It is to be feared that too little
attention has hitherto been paid
to this highly- essential qualifica-
tion in intending emigrants. While
some have laboured, and laudably so
too, to impress the Saints with the im-
portance and necessity of exerting
themselves to obtain the means for
emigration, they have comparatively
neglected to enforce the principle of
preparing themselves to become practi-
cally useful when they have reached
their destination. By this neglect on
the part of emigrants, many who have
settled in Utah have had to pass through
many privations, and feeling their utter
dependency, from being unable to
make themselves adequately useful,
they beeome comparatively clogs to
the community (like drones in a bee-
hive) ; a feeling of supineness and
lukewarmness has grown in their own
bosoms ; they have complained that
matters had not been sufficiently made
known to them, or had been misrepre-
sented ; and when a little trouble has
come across them, they have taken the
backward track, and have ultimately
found themselves either in California
or back again in England, and are then
held up by opposers of 44 Mormonism "
as living examples of the frightful state
of things reported as existing in Utah.
We know of instances of this 44 not
a hundred miles" from Liverpool.
Whereas, had a different course been
pursued, and the principle of self-in-
dependence been taught to them and
carried out by them while in their own
native country, the result would have
been quite the reverse. Instead of
being stumblingblocks in the way of
others, they would have been living
examples of the benefit, morally ana
socially, which practical 44 Mormonism,**
above all other systems under heaven,
is capable of conferring upon man. "

Digitized by CjOOg IC

776

COBttKSPONDKNCX.

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.
WARWICKSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Coventry, Noy. 16, 1864.

President George Q. Gannon.

Dear Brother, — As regards the work
of the Lord in the Warwickshire Con-
ference, I may say that, with very few
exceptions, the Saints are feeling well
and doing all they can for the spread
of truth. The circumstances by which
they are surrounded forbid their doing
that which they have in their hearts to
do ;' still they are honest in bearing
their testimony whenever time and cir-
cumstances will admit.

Many of our brethren have had to
turn out upon the public roads, and to
the stone- breaking yard, and to the
oakum rooms to pull or pick oakum, for
the paltry sum of sixpence and a loaf
worth fivepence per day to sustain
themselves and families. Such is the
state of matters in and around
Coventry, and there are thousands of
men who have not the amount of one
day's work per week.

On making a calculation as to the
amount of our next season's emigration,
I find that we shall have about fifty
that can go to Florence, and who sav
they will go, unless otherwise advised.
I find also that there are about thirty
others who are not fully prepared ; but
their prospects are good, and I believe
that most of them will be able to go.
Four can make their way all through to
Utah.

Since the 30th of June last, we have
added to the Church by baptism some
few over sixty, most of whom are new
members; and there are many others
who bid fair to become members of the
Church,

As far as I am concerned, I feel well,
and I ever feel willing to do the best I
can to cheer the Saints and build them
up in their most holy faith. I feel that
the blessing of the Lord has been with
Me in my labours, and I hope and pray
that it ever may.

Praying that the blessings of the
Lord may rest upon you, brothers
Lyman and Bioh, and all who labour
the spread of truth, I subscribe

myself your brother and fellow-labourer
in the cause of Zion,

Samuel L. Adams.
WALES.

Swansea, Nov. 20, 1861.
President Cannon.

Pear Brother, — I am still happy to
inform you of the onward progress of
"Mormonism" in the Welsh Princi-
pality. Our large and commodious
najls are at present too small at Mer-
thyr Tydvil and its vicinity to contain
the inquiring hundreds that are coming
to hear the glad tidings of the holy
Gospel preached by the Elders. At a
small Branch called Cap Coch, in the
Eastern Glamorgan Conference, the
people of the world are paying the rent
of a beautiful hall for oar Elders to
hold meetings and preach in. Twelve
persons were -added by baptism to
the Church in that little Branch
last week, and many more, by all ap-
pearances, are, as it were, on the
brink of the water.

Thirty-three persons were added to
the Church in the Eastern Glamorgan
Conference last month, and eighty-nine
since the 10th of last June. Your visit
to Wales has been productive of much
good, The Saints are rejoicing in the
doctrines which they have heard, and
many respectable people are busily in*
vestigating the principles of eternal
truth. There is a spirit of kinduess
manifested by many towards the Saints
at present in Wales. How long it will
continue I am not able to say. How*
ever, all seems calm and serene at
present ; and, by the grace of God and
the help of my brethren, I am deter-
mined to work while the sun shines, for
we are not aware how soon a severe
storm may come.

I feel truly thankful to my Heavenly
Father that he has owned and blessed
our labours with success, not merely in
bringing several into the Church, but
in blessing and restoring the sick to
perfect health and soundness, who were
to all appearance near death. Sister
Jane Davies, who resides near the

SUMJUBT.

777

tillage of LTanyWe, Carmarthenshire,
Was very miraculously healed lately.

Brothers By water and Daviea are
faithfully labouring with me, as well as
the Presidents of Conferences and the
local Priesthood, with a few exceptions.

Praying for a continuation of the
blessings of heaven to rest upon you
and your brethren in the Presidency, I
remain your brother in Christ,

Thomas £. Jerbmy.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — Vaglio, in the Basilicata, has
been occupied by the brigands. Bands of
brigands have been put to night near Pietra-

Salla, in the same province, with the loss of
3 killed aud several wounded. Borges
appeared in the province of Basilicata with
200 brigands, and has sacked Tivigno and
Satandra. He was repulsed at several other
places. It is said that the Pontifical Go-
vernment is secretly preparing an expedi-
tion against Umbria. Fresh enrolments of
brigands are being made at Borne.

Hukgary. — Great efforts are being made
in Hungary to restrain the agitation
amongst the people, from a conviction that
the time has not arrived to begin a conflict
with the Austrian Government.

Switzerland. — The French commission-
ers have returned to the Valley of Dappes,
in order to complete their protocol on the
recent violation of the Swiss territory. From
the verbal depositions of witnesses, a fresh
violation of Swiss territory has taken place
near Geneva.

Poland. — The Administrator of the
Archbishopric of Warsaw was arrested, in
pursuance of orders from St. Petersburg.
The Prelate, who is ill, has been conducted
to the citadel, and will be tried before a
court-martial. The Government demand'
from the chapter the election of another Ad-
ministrator. The chapter, however, refuses
to comply with this, demand, and has ap-
pealed to Rome.
Turkey. — Communication between Ra-

gusa and Trebjgne has been interrupted by
the insurgents. The Turkish army under
the command of Omar Pasha has been in*
creased by 10,000 regular troops and Bashi
Bazouks. The insurgents have likewise
received reinforcements. They returned
yesterday to Ljubowa, which place they had
left on the 16th inst. A slight skirmish
has taken place between the Turks and the
insurgents, but has led to no result.

Egypt.— The Nord states that a letter
dated Alexandria, Nov. 7, furnishes the fol-
lowing information : — " On the 15th of Oc-
tober the Nile commenced to fall, and since
November 5th the river has returned to its
natural channel. Active measures are
being taken to repair the railroad, but there
seems little hope of the resumption of traffic
upon it befo/e the end of December. The
Viceroy has ordered the chiefs of provinces
to furnish a circumstantial report of the
nature and extent of the disasters occa-
sioned by the overflow of the river, and has
commissioned a French engineer to prepare
a plan for the future prevention, as far as
possible, of similar disasters."

America. — General Fremont has re-
ceived an unconditional order from Wash-
ington, "relieving" him from his command,
and this step has produced a spirit of insub-
ordination amongst the Federals. Several
companies laid down their arms, declaring
they would not fight except under their old
General; t)ut Fremont had expostulated
with them, and issued a farewell address.

VARIETIES.

Young Soldiers. — There is a terrible war feeling throughout the wnole country. Even
the new-born infants are in arms,

A Bankrupt was condoled with, the other day, for his embarrassment. " Oh, I'm not
embarrassed at all," said he ; 44 it's my creditors that are embarrassed."

The aborigines of Australia have no idea of a supreme divinity, the Creator and Governor
of the world, the witness of their actions, and their future Judge. They have no object of
worship, even of a sulx>rdinate or inferior rank. They have no idols, no temples, no
sacrifices. In short, they have nothing whatever of the character of religion, or
of religious observance, to distinguish them from the beasts that perish.

Unimtbntionai. Joer.— One day, at the table of the late Dr. Pearce, just as the doth
was being removed, the subject of discourse happened to be that of an extraordinary
mortality amongst the lawyers. ** We have lost, said one gentleman* " not less than six
eminent barristers in as many months." At this moment the doctor (who was quite deaf)
rose and gave the company grace*-" For this and every other mercy, the Lord's nam b#
praised."

Digitized by VjOOQIC

yyg POBTJIY. — -INQUIRIES.

' Two Snm«or a Law Q^tioit.-Mr. BilniM.of Vermont, M a lawyer, 1i»d the h«W
f JnTtv onmo^nehw clients that justice and law were with them u all caws. We
v y ?;!.^m B lXntrationefthM'talentofMr. Barnes in a letter from a friend. A
^ 'Sd tofthToffice ot Mr. Barnes one day, and began hi* applicatioa

„agh eoun W n w ^ » t in a ease that has given me some trouble.!*

WM1 whaTisUie maS??" ''Suppose, now," said the client, " that a man had a fine
• 'Jnf IS*? onVnUni and hifneighbour below him was to build a dam across a
SrS throu^n bSh tlJeir farms, a g nd it was to back the water upinto theoloman'.
^ „ ' ■ .h2 outfit to be done P '* " Sue h m, sir,— sue him by all means !" saw the
^~MW&™^'"V«^ to *• Wevation of his cent's wrongs.
^ You cen rwover y heavy damages, sir. Un a mostflagrant .mury be has done yon, s*.
iou cnnreCTYer , ?-o . • f him an d if he hasn't a good deal oC

J„Tt°«v^ andifhe-hasn't agood f dea! oC

Srt^U wUl oreak him up, sir." " But stop ! " cries the terrified applicant for legal
ffi ■'" It" m that built the dam. and itis neighbour Jones that own, tte springy and
Ws Areaten-ing to sue me ! " The keen lawyer hesitated but a moment before he tacked
nesinreawuiusw # .avvou built a dam across that creek, what

sure H is"' 5 Iwoum not haTbuilt it bu't for th°at ' It's so far to any other mil!
ar * " AnJ now."saidtheoldlawyer,''youtellmetnatthatman Jones IS complaining jurt
b£ause *e water from your dam happens to back up into his little sprmg. and he »
Sr^tenineto sueyou. Well, all I haveto say is, letlnm sue, and he U rue the day he
S3 of ? it?at sure as my name U Barnes." The result of that lawsuit has never
transpired. — American Paper,

POETRY.

THE POWER OF TRUTH.

On the top, of the mountains truth', ensign doth O^v^^^^^^

srnS^^

POr truth is all-powerful, and soon shall prevail. compare.

, ... In past ajres, when Prophets thy banner unfurled.

When the storm of adversity fiercely did mow, They were scoffed, scourged, and martyred by a

And justice protection relused to bestow, merciless world ;

They bravely moved onward in truth's mighty car, And ln this ^ ^ freedom (so called by the great),

Xeepiug constant and true as the bright polar star. Joseph, Hyrum, and others have shared the same fata.

»ti. f«if>» mistikiM them and arms them with Soon in shame will the world and its great ones expire,
'TIs truth that sustains tnem ana arms ^ Qod§ - a||d the angeta the Saints will a«h-if*:

It comforuand cheers them in many a dark hour: Men may laugh, scoff, and rage ; but their efforts wffl
I?nr™S For trulls all-powerful, and soon sh^

Liverpool. Alkxakder Ross.

Inquiries.— If any one can give information of the present whereabouts of Joseph Forester, who emigrated
from Willenhall, England, to Utah, in 1855, the same will be thankfully received by his sister, Etaabeth
Forester, Talbot Hotel, King Street, Wolverhampton. Information is also wanted by Thomas Davis, of
Newbury, concerning William and Mary Taylor, and their son Henry, who left for Utah abou t six years
aco. and has not been hoard of since Sept, 1855. Any person who may be acquainted with the wbereaooott
of the above will please communicate the same to this Office, or to Thomas Davis, Mason's Yard, Northhrooc
Street, Newbury, Berkshire, England. [Dtserct Newt and Mountaineer, please copy.]

CONTENTS.

jilnutes of Liverpool Conference. 763 S.L. Adams.— Wales : Letter from Elder T.

History of Joseph Smith 768 E. Jeremy ...................^ — 77*

Editorial.— A Monthly Fast Day.— Dreadful Ef- Summary of Newt and Passing Brents. 777

facte of QvU Strife-Hull Conference 771 Varieties...^..... v'- V£

Independence of Zlon 774 Poetry.— "The Power ofTruth — «... 778

Correspondence.— England : Letter from Elder Inquiries- — — 719

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CAflNON, 41, ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DfcPOT, so, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STREET
JSLII^GTON; AND ALL BOOKaJiLLKRS, -

Digitized by CjOOQIC

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAK.

"Anfiiutkmtl come even totheemdeof ttoeewih; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nation* : he will
plead with all flesh ; he wiUgive thorn that ore wicked to the word, eaUh the £«r<i J «kk*i An.

No. 49, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, Dec. 7, 1861.

Price One Penny.

SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE

HELD IN GBXAT SALT LAKE CIT*, OCT. 6, 7, 8, 1861.
REPORTED BY J. T. LONG.

T*he Serai-Annual Conference of the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints convened in the Bowery, Great
Salt Lake City, on Sunday, Oct. 6, 1861,
at 10 a.m. ; President Brigham Young
predidtag. There were on the stand —

Of the First Presidency— Presidents
Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and
Daniel 1J. Wells.

Of the Twelve Apostles—Orson Hyde,
Orson Pratt, sen., John Taylor, Wilford
Woodruff, George A Smith, Ezra T.
BeDson, Lorenzo Snow, Erastus Snow,
and Franklin D. Richards.

Of the First Presidency of the Seventies
— Joseph Young, sen., Levi W. Hancock,
Henry Herriman, Zera Pulsipher, Albert
P. Rock wood, Horace S. Eldredge, and
JacOh Gates.

Of the Presidency of the High Priests'
Quotwn— Edwin D. Woolley and Samuel
W.Richards.

Of the Presidency of this Stake of Zion
—Daniel Spencer, David Fullmer, and
George JB. WaBace.

Of the Presidency of the Bishopric—
Edward *Hus*er, Leonard W. Hardy, and
Jesse C. Lit*.

Of the Patriarchs — John Smith and
Isaac Wosto^. *

Reporters— «eorge D. WattasdMra
V. Lone.

The O onfc i m oe was called to order
hy the President, after which the cfroir
sang* hymn. Elder Wilford Woodruff
offered prayer.

Choir sang "Til praise my Maker
while I've breath."

President Brigham Young said, when
the Latter- day Saints came together iu
this capacity, they generally wish some
instructions which they have not pre-
viously had ; but he desired to impress
the principles upon the minds of the con-
gregation that tbey had no right to
require of the Lord, of a Prophet, an
Apostle, or other servant of God, any
further intelligence until they had im-
proved upon that which they had
already received. If we couM come to
the standard, our lives would do filled
up with righteousness, and wc should
manifest m our every act that the
kingdom of God and the building up
thereof was the first thing in our
hearts; then the Lord has an abun-
dance to pour out upon us, of know-
ledge, power, and the good things of
this life. When we have sought the
kingdom of God and his righteousness
with all our hearts, then wc can attain
to the rest v , and assist in, the building up
of the kingdom temporally : We can then
go forward and build the Temple. We
wish to lay before the Conference the
necessity of the people paying their
labour- tithing and of assisting the
kingdom, instead of taking out of the
pojckets of the Church; - As the' first
daj of our Conference is on the first

Digitized by Google

780 SEMI-ANNUAL

day of the week, which is set apart for
the worship of our Father, we will de-
vote it to teaching the spiritual things
of the kingdom, and then to-morrow we
will attend to the business.

Elder John Taylor spoke of the ig-
norance and darkness in which we were
shrouded before the Gospel came to us,
and the light and intelligence it has
brought to our minds. Reasoned upon
faith and obedience, and the necessity
of increasing therein, and said that
nothing could secure us the greater
blessings of the Gospel but complete
submission to the mandates of heaven.

President Heber 0. Kimball made
some pointed remarks on the principle
of obedience. Briefly alluded to the
subjects of Tithing and Consecration,
and referred to the Apostolic consecra-
tion and the fate of Ananias and
Sapphira, who lied to the Apostles.
He next alluded to the gifts of the Spirit
as bestowed upon the faithful. Upon
the first principles of the Gospel, he
said we were united, and asked if we
were also united in temporal things,
and remarked that if we do not become
one in temporal matters, we cannot long
remain united in spiritual things.

Choir 6ang 44 Come, all ye Saints
who dwell on earth." Benediction by
Elder Lorenzo Snow.

2 p.m.

Singing by the choir. Prayer by
Elder Orson Hyde. Choir sang " How
happy every child of grace."

The sacrament was then administered
by Bishops Edward Hunter, Lorenzo
D. Young, Abraham 0. Smoot, and
Jonathan Pugmire.

Elder Orson Hyde made a few
remarks about the crops, and the gene-
ral prosperity of the people in Sanpete
County, where he had been living.

President Brigham Young showed
the propriety of the Elders correcting
themselves, and not always be dinging
at the people to do things, and perform
duties which they themselves neglect.
Explained to the Conference the princi-
ples relative to the people being one in
all things. Briefly referred to the
present warlike state of affairs in the
States.

Elder Orson Hyde gave some valuable
and interesting lessons on domestic
economy.

President Daniel H, Well* urged upon

CONFEBENCB

the people the observance and reverence
of the Sabbath, and the necessity of
keeping it holy. Said that if we obey
the Lord in the days of our prosperity,
we can the better call upon him m the
days of our affliction. It is the duty of
the people to strive to see a propriety
in the counsels that are given by the
servants of the Lord. He referred to
the late agricultural fair, and expressed
himself highly gratified with what he
there saw, and said we ought to take
courage and endeavour to improve and
increase in all that is good : we should
strive to add to the number of home
manufactured articles ; we should also
encourage those who are engaged in the
manufacture of leather, nans, hate,
bonnets, soap ; we should likewise con-
sider the propriety and justice of paying
as good pay to the home manufacturer
as to the stores. He counselled the
Bishops to lead forth in doing these
things. We are labouring to accomplish,
the union of the people and the con-
centration of our efforts and means for
the bringing about of the purposes of
the Almighty. Let us, then, strive with
our might to fear God, keep his com-
mandments, love, serve, and obey him,
and respect all his institutions ; and let
us not strive to walk them under our
feet as a vain thing. He counselled the
brethren to bring in their Tithing to the
storehouse of the Lord — the grain, the
vegetables, and the molasses; in-
structed the Bishops how to organise
companies of men and teams, and send
them all through the winter to haul
stone from Little Cottonwood for the
Temple. The Presidency wanted to en-
gage all the masons who felt disposed
to come along and work to prepare the
rook for laying up in the spring. The
Lord has saved these valleys of the
mountains for his Saints, and not for
the world. It is the duty of Saints to
work only tor the building up of the
kingdom of God*

Choir sang " happy souls who
pray." Dismissed by Elder W. W.
Phelps.

E vesting, in the Tabernacle.

Choir sang " Praise ye the Lord; tiff
good to praise."

This being the first meeting in the
Tabernacle since it was repaired, en-
larged, and made suitable for pufeUo

Digitized by Google

8 EM I- ANNUAL CONFERENCE.

worship, President B. Young offered
the following dedication prayer : —

Our Father and our God, we pre-
sent ourselves before thee on this oc-
casion, in the name of thy Son Jesus
Christ, in whose name we dedicate
ourselves unto thee and to thy service
fot building up thy kingdom upon the
earth, for the promotion of righteous-
ness, for gathering the house of Israel,
and for establishing thy Zion, until the
laws of Zion shall become the law of all
nations. We also dedicate unto thee
our friends, our families, our brethren,
and their families and friends, with
our flocks and our herds, and our posses •
sions as thy people. We dedicate unto
thee thy kingdom in every nation, and
among all people where thy Gospel has
"been preached and thy kingdom estab-
lished. We dedicate unto thee this
Louse that we now occupy, and the
ground upon which it stands. As it has
before been dedicate^ unto thee, we
again dedicate it unto thee, with the
addition and improvements that hare
been made upon it. We dedicate to
thee the foundation walls — the founda-
tions upon which the timbers and floor
rest; we dedicate to thee the walls
above the foundation, the adobies, and
all the wood- work, the timbers, and the
lathing* and plastering on the walls, the
doors and the hangings thereof, and we
desire that they may be opened and shut
by the Saints of the Most High ; we
dedicate unto thee the timbers of the
roof, with all the appurtenances there-
unto belonging — the brace timbers
that strengthen and sustain the roof,
with the lathing and plastering of the
ceiling, also the shingles, and the boards
upon which they are fastened, and the
nails and bolts of iron that bind the
whole together; we dedicate unto thee
the window frames, and the sash, and
glass, and the trimmings thereof, and
all the conveniences pertaining to this
building, both those that are on the
ground and those that are in the

Sround; we dedicate unto thee the
eepers and the flooring above them,
anoV the" nails that bindtbem together,
and the seats' that rest upon the floor ;
we dedicate unto thee the pulpit, and the
platform upon which it rests, and the
seats, and everything that pertain^ to
the stand; we dedicate un>o thee the
organ, and the foundation upon which

781

it rests, and all its appi? rtenances and
and conveniences ; we dedicate unto
thee the new portion of this house, the
foundation upon which it rests, and its
conveniences above and below, together
with the former portion of this our
place of worship, which thou hast per-
mitted us to erect, wherein to worship
the name of the Lord of Hosts. We
ask thee, our Father, in the name of
Jesus Christ thy Son, to let thy pre-
sence and thy power dwell in this hall,
and suffer not thine enemies to ever
occupy it.

Thou art acquainted with our faith
and our hopes, with our labours of love,
with all that we possess ; for all things
are open before tnee. Let righteous-
ness and peace dwell here, that thy
holy angels may take up their abode
here and dwell with us. Let great
peace — the peace of God, that passeth
understanding, dwell upon thy people
that enter this house. May the Spirit
and power of the Holy Ghost rest upon
male and female, old and young, and
middle-aged, that come here to worship
thee in spirit and in truth ; and let thy
servants who speak to thy people in this
house be inspired by thy wisdom and
with thy power, and b« filled with the
revelations of Jesus Christ. Let them
thus be blessed at this time and in all
time to come.

Bless the Saints in every land and
clime, and all that pertains to them.
We pray thee to bless thy Priesthood
in all their abiding -places, and in all
their fields of labour. Pour out thy
Holy Spirit upon the faithful of thy
servants, and preserve those who are
labouring in ' foreign lands, who travel
from nation to nation, from people to
people, and from land to land, to gather
and save the honest in heart. May
mat peace and great power be upon
them and round about them by day
and night, and let them not be hurt by
any power. Give them every qualifica-
tion that is requisite to their respective
calling and standing before thee and the
people among whom they minister.
Give them money and means, food and
raiment, and the hearts of the people 1
Give them abundance to gather up the
poor and bring them home to Zion.

Bless the inhabitants of this Terri-
tory. We 1 thank thee for the land in
the chambers of these mounta

Digitized by *

782 SEMI-ANNUAL

thank thee for the mountains, for the
kanyons and the rugged rocks, for the
sandy deserts and salt wastes that
surround and embrace these hiding-
places for the poor and meek of the
earth ; we thank thee for the pure
streams of water that flow from the
kanyon gorges, that gush forth in the
mountain tops and come to us a healing,
cooling, reviving beverage; we thank
thee for the healthy, thriving vegetation
of these fat valleys of Ephraim, for our
bread and meat, for our habitations and
our raiment, for our families, friends,
and connections, for the society of thv
people, for useful animals, and for aU
the conveniences and creature comforts
of life, all of which we dedicate unto
thee, our Father and our God.

We ask thee to bless the Quorums of
thy servants who have assembled this
evening with the High Priests' Quorum.
May we all feel one in Christ ; and let
thy Spirit of wisdom be continually
with us as thine Elders, that none may
feel in their hearts, some ofHeber,some
of Willard, some of Jeddy, some of
Daniel, some of Joseph, some of
Brigham, some of John, some of Paul,
and some of Christ. Bless us with
understanding, that our capacities may
reach to the heavens, and our minds
be opened to behold heavenly things,
and things upon the earth, and things
under the earth, that we may oe
acquainted with the power by which thy
works are organized and sustained.
When we meet as High Priests, as the
Twelve Apostles, as Seventies, as

Jijshops, as Elders, as Priests, as
eachers, as Deacons, and as members
of this thy great latter-day kingdom that
is growing upon the earth according to
the words of thine ancient Prophets,
may we meet as members of the same
body; and in all our communications
may we have the Spirit of intelligence
to receive as well as to give, and all be
benefited together.

We dedicate ajl unto thee, and ask
thy blessing upon all the subjects of
tour prayers, in the name ef Jesus
•Christ our Lord* Amen. I
Choir sang another hymn.
Bishop E. D. yoolley arose and said
that we had met in the ijune of the
High Priests' Quorum ; but as there was
no business calling for the immediate
potion of that body, the meeting would

CONFBBKNCX.

be devoted principally to preaching.
He regretted that brother John Young,
sen., the President of the Quorum, could
not be present, owing to a recent accident;
by which he had been so unfortunate
as to sprain his ankle ; but it afforded
him pleasure to communicate Uncle
( John's blessing and good wishes for the
brethren of the Quorum and for all
Israel.

Elder Phineas H. Young remarked
that through his whole life he had not
felt a more striking interest in the things
of the kingdom of God than at the pre-
sent time. Spoke of the power and
authority of the Melchisedec Priesthood
to regulate and preside in all spiritual
matters, and the duty of the Aaronic
Priesthood to control temporal things,
under the direction of the Melchisedec.
Gave his views upon the doctrine of
consecration.

Elder Samuel W. Richards observed
that he had met mJhy times with the
High Priests' Quorum, and the brethren
knew his feelings and sentiments in re-
gard to those things that belong to the
building up of this kingdom and the
establishment of peace and truth upon
the earth. Endeavoured to show the
propriety of striving to learn from the
experience of others, as well as from our
own, and prayed the Lord to assist us
to perform every duty required at our
hands by the servants of God.

Elder George D. Watt reasoned upon
the inseparability of our temporal and
spiritual existence. He spoke in strong
terms of the necessity of the Latter-day
Saints observing the law of consecra-
tion, and said that all our means should
be laid out and expended with a view
to an increase. He alluded to the in-
fluence and power of wealth.

President Brigham Young made some
remarks on the vibrations of sound, the
advantages and conveniences of the
Tabernacle now over what we enjoyed
before it Was repaired. Spoke of
the natural body having to go into
the grave in order that it might
be purified and prepared /or tthe recur- 1
rection. Desired to see the people be-
come of one heart and one mind, and
said it was truly gratifying to know
that the Elders were in some degree
learning to put their means in the right
channel. Reviewed the history of
Elderc oo^tej£ b £Wo«r-

8BMI-A2VNUAL

some coming home rich, others as mer-
chants, some as teamsters, and some
-with handcarts. Made a few appro-
priate remarks on the gathering of the
poor, Saints from the nations of the
tricked.

Ghoir sang "All hail the glorious
day." Benediction by Elder F.D.Rich-
ards.

Monday, Oct. 7, 10 a. m., Bowery.

Choir sang Oome, ye that love the
Lord." Prayer by Elder Ezra T.
Benson. Choir sang "Arise, O glo-
rious Zion."

President Brigham Young said we
would now take up the business of the
Conference, such as the building of the
Temple, sending teams East next ppring,
and many other little items that were
necessary to be considered. Said it
was his intention to call upon a number
of Swiss and other brethren to go ipto
the southern part of the Territory — pro-
bably about two' hundred families — to
raise cotton, indigo, grapes, figs, and
such other articles as cannot be raised
in the northern counties. Flax, hemp,
wool, and silk, he observed, we can
raise here as well as they can be raised
in any other part of the world. It
was also his desire to have some-
thing done respecting the Missionary
and Perpetual Emigrating Funds. The
first business in order was the presenta-
tion of the various authorities of the
Church.

Elder John Taylor was called upon,
and he presented the authorities of the
Church as follows : —

Brigham Young, President of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints;
Heber C. Kimball his First, and Daniel
H. Wells his Second, Counsellors.

Orson Hyde as President of the Quorum
of the Twelve Apostles ; and Orson Pratt,
•en., John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff,
George A. Smith, Amasa M. Lyman,
Ezra T. Benson, Charles C. Rich, Lorenzo
Snow, Erast us Snow, Franklin D. Richards,
and George Q. Cannon, as members of
said Quorum.

John Smith, Patriarch of the whole
Church.

Daniel Spencer, President of this Stake
of Zion ; and David Fullmer and George B.
Wallace, his Counsellors.

William Eddington, James A. Little,
John V. Long, John L. Blythe, George
Hebeker, John T. Caine, Joseph w.
Young, Gilbert Clements, Brigham Yountf,

CONFERENCE. 783

jun., Franklin B. Woolley, Orson Pratt,
jun., and Howard Spencer, as members of
the High Council.

John Young, President of the High
Priests' Quorum ; Edwin D. Woolley and
Samuel W. Richards, his Counsellors.

Joseph Young, President of the first
seven Presidents of the Seventies ; and Levi
W. Hancock, Henry Herri man, Zera
Pulsipher, Albert P. Rockwood, Horace
S. Eldredge, and Jacob Gates, as members
of the first seven Presidents of the Seventies.

John Nebeker, President of the Elders'
Quorum ; and Elnathan Eldredge and
Joseph Pelt, his Counsellors.

Edward Hunter, Presiding Bishop;
Leonard W. Hardy and Jesse C. Little,
his Counsellors.

Lewis Wight, President of the Priests'
Quorum ; William Whiting and Samuel
Moore, his Counsellors.

McGee Harris, President of the Teachers'
Quorum, Adam Speirsand David Bowman,
his Counsellors.

John S. Carpenter, President of the
Deacons' Quorum ; William F. Cook and
Warren Hardy, his Counsellors.

Brigham Young was presented asTrua tee-
in -Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints.

Daniel H. Wells, Superintendent of
Public Works.

William H. Folsom, Architect for the
Church. Elder Truman O. Angell resigned
the office of Architect, in consequence of
poor health, and recommended brother
Folsom as his successor.

Brigham Young, President of the
Perpetual Emigrating Fund to gather the
poor ; Heber C. Kimball, Daniel EL Wells,
and Edward Hunter, his assistants and
agents for said fund.

George A. Smith, Historian and General
Church Recorder ; and Wilford Woodruff,
his assistant

The foregoing Quorums and authori-
ties were ail voted for separately, and
each and all unanimously sustained by
the Conferenoe.

President Heber C. Kimball com-
menced his address by asking the
question, Shall we go to work and
buildaTempleP (Voices, "Yes.") Isthis
the feeling of the people here to-day P
(Voices, "Yes.") As the body without the
spirit is dea'2, so also is our faith with-,
out works. He then asked the people
if they would pay their Tithing, and the
congregation responded, "Yes." He naid
there was no lack of means. All that
was required was the will ; and if the
people will do it, God will help us

Digitized by

784

SB MI- ANNUAL CONFEBEKCB.

Spoke of the importance of the Latter-
day Saints concentrating their means
and theii energies for the purpose of
erecting a Temple to the name of our
God.

President Brigham Young made a
few timely remarks on cash-tithing.
Counselled the people to make their in-
vestments in the kingdom of God, and
then they will see the benefits resulting
from it.

President Daniel H. Wells called for
fifty teams to go to work and haul rock
from Little Cottonwood for the building
of the Temple ; that number to be on
hand for service from this time until the
Temple is completed. He wished the
hauling to be done on labour-tithing.
Each settlement is expected to furnish
its quota of men, teams, and waggons,
to be provided with suitable camping
equipage, so that the work can be pro-
secuted through the winter season.

Elder George A. Smith took up the
subject of improvement, and metaphori-
cally presented the Latter-day Saints
as one great building, and our Presi-
dent as the great master-builder. Ar-f
gued that it is our duty to unite our
strength and build that Temple. If we
do right, it is for us to follow him; and
if he says, Brother, go south and raise
cotton — go to these flats and make
adobies — into those hills and get lumber,
we should do it with our whole hearts.
We have come here to build up Zion,
and we should be willing to go and do
what we can, and to do it when and
where he dictates us. Touched briefly
upon the subject of paying cash-tithing,
and exposed the conduct of some.
Contended that it is the duty of every
man to strive and do his share towards
the building up of the kingdom of God
upon the earth. He was in favour of
sending down two or three hundred
families to the cotton country this fall,
to raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, &c.

Chok sang a hymn, after which Elder
F.D.Richards pronounced the benedic-
tion.

,2 p.m.
Singing by the choir. Prayer by
Bishop Edwin D. Woolley. Choir sang
"Come, let us anew our journey pur-
sue."

President Brigham Young made
pointed remarks dn the science of music.
Alluded to his late visit to the extreme

northern and southern settlements ,of
the Territory, and their adaptation for
producing everything that is necessary
to sustain human life. ,

Elder Albert Carrington was then
called upon, and read an address, which
is being sent to all the Bi shops of the
Territory, calling upon them to use
their best endeavours to husband the
tithing now being placed in their hands,
so that all may be preserved to assist in
building the Temple the coming season.

Elder Ezra T. Benson felt thankful
for the present opportunity of speaking
to the brethren and sisters In Great
Salt Lake City. He ever felt anxious
to discharge those duties that were re-
quired at his hands. Spoke of the
general duties and responsibilities de-
volving upon the Latter-day Saints.
Advocated the doctrines of Tithing and

onsecration, and the necessity of the
aints being liberal with their means
and doing all in their power towards
the building up of the kingdom of God.
He said the Temple would cost one mil-
lion of dollars, and one-half of that sum
was wanted for next season's operations.
Admonished the brethren and sisters to
be faithful in all things, and said many
other good things.

Elder Mark A. Coombs, being invited
to make a few remarks, told his expe-
rience in the Church, and described the
way and manner of his receiving the
Gospel, in Jackson County, Missouri.
Belated a vision which the Lord gave
him to open his mind ready for the re-
ception of the "Word of Wisdom,"
which was revealed through Joseph
Smith.

President B. Young called for volun-
teers to go to Washington county and
raise cotton, indigo, figs, grapes, sugar,
olives, and all the products of a southern,
climate.

Patriarch Isaac Morley made a few
remarks, in which he bore a strong tes-
timony to the truth of the Latter-day
Work now being accomplished by the
Saints of God. Offered some pertinent
remarks on self-government and the
saving effects of being submissive to
the powers that be. In conclusion, he
said, " Let us strive to understand our
relationship to each other, and never
neglect to hearken to counsel. I feel
to leave my blessing upon the people,
aa it is my right by virtue of the Patri-

Digitized by

SEMI-ANNUAL CONFERENCE.

785

arohal office. I bless you, brethren and
sisters, with the blessings of the heavens
and of tHe earth and the fulness
thereof; also with the blessings of eter-
nal life and exaltation in the kingdom
of our Heavenly Father ; and I do it in
the name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

Brother Daniel Bonelli then read the
names of the Swiss brethren who were
selected to go and settle in the southern
part of the Territory.

President Brigham Young said that
as the brethren did not choose to volun-
teer for this mission, tho Presidency and
Twelve would make the selections, and
they would expect the brethren to go
and stay until they are released.

Choir sang " The Spirit of God like
a fire is burning/' Benediction by
Elder George A. Smith. '

Athalf-past six in the evening the
Bishops held a meeting in the Taber-
nacle for the transaction of business,
Bishop Hunter presiding. Nearly all
the wards and settlements in the Terri-
tory were represented ; the house was
densely crowded, and a jgood spirit pre-
vailed. The Presiding Bishop delivered
short address, during which he briefly
touched upon the important items of
business, upon which he desired them
to express their minds.

President D. H. Wells then arose and
delivered an excellent discourse on the
building of the Temple, the gathering
of the poor Saints from all the nations
of the earth, the necessity of sustaining
the families of Missionaries while they
are abroad preaching the Gospel to
those who sit in darkness.

Several enlivening songs were sung
by Messrs. William Willis, George God-
dard, Andrew Sprowl, and Charles W.
Penrose ; after which the congregation
was dismissed with benediction by Pre-
sident B. Young.

Tuesday, Oct. 8, 1801, 10 a.m., Bowery.

Choir sang "The morning breaks,
the shadows flee." Prayer by Elder
Jacob Gates.

Owing to the disagreeable change in
the weather which took place during
the opening ceremonies, the Conference
adjourned to the Tabernacle.

Tabernacle, 10.30.
» The choir sang " I'll praise my Maker
while I've breath."

Elder William W. Phelps read and
commented upon several passages and
revelations contained in the Evening
and Morning Star, a paper published in
the early days of the Ohurcn. He bore
testimony to the restoration of the Gos-

Sel through Joseph Smith. Quoted
[atthew and Mark on the promise of
" a hundred fold" to him that forsakes
houses, lands, mothors, wives, or chil-
dren. He also made numerous other
quotations and comments in his usually
eccentrio style.

Elder William H. Miles was next in-
vited to the stand. He reviewed his ex-
perience in this Church for the past
twenty-one years. Said he rejoiced in
the privilege of being here, and also in
tho opportunity of bearing testimony to
the truth of tho religion he had em-
braced.

Elder William Willis sang " The city
I love so well."

President Brigham Young preached
a highly-interesting and instructive dis-
course upon the important subject of
marriage for time and all eternity.

Choir sang " Praise to the man who
communed with Jehovah." Benedic-
tion by Elder G. D. Watt.

2 p.m.

Singing by the choir. Prayer by
Elder Wuford Woodruff. Choir sang
" Oh, say what is truth."

President Brigham Young called the
attention of the Bishops and people
to the importance of gathering up all
such worn-out fabrics, articles of cloth-
ing, and other materials suitable for the
manufacture of cotton and linen paper.
He said twenty-five thousand dollars
had been expended in the paper ma-
chine, and it was a good one. The
only thing now lacking, he observed, is
material to make into paper, and he
wished the people to save their rags
and to gather up all suitablo refuse
material for making paper. Said we
ought now to print our own school-
books, works on science, &c; and if we
can get the rags and the flax together,
we can soon make the paper and print
our own books.

Elder Lorenzo Snow next addressed
the congregation. He spoke with
energy and spirit upon the principles of
Tithing and Consecration, and the ne-
cessity of always holding everything

Digitized by

786

ready upon the altar of sacrifice.
Counselled the Saints to be faithful and
diligent in the discharge of those duties
devolving upon them as children of
God.

William 0. Dunbar was called upon
and sang the favourite hymn, 44 O Zion,
dear Zion."

Elder Orson Pratt introduced the
Missionary Fund, and said that it had
been determined that the Missionaries
should be sustained in this Territory,
and their families be supported here,
so that the brethren could go forth
with the spirit of their missions upon
them, instead of striving to get means
to sustain their families at home. Re-
ferred to his missions abroad and the
course he had taken in publishing pam-
phlets on the first principles of the Gos-
pel of Jesus Christ. Spoke also of the
doctrine of consecration. Advocated
the building of the Temple in which to
administer ordinances for the living and
for the dead, and stated his willingness
to do anything in his power for its
erection. He then dwelt upon the sub-
ject of the gathering of the poor from
all nations. Was of opinion that a ser-
vant of God had no right to plead igno
ranee in regard to his duties, but he
ought to learn what his duties were, and
then do them.

President Heber 0. Kimball reviewed
the early history of the Church. Al
luded to his connection with Zion's
Camp and the promises of the Almighty
to the Elders at that time. Bore testi-
mony to the truth of the work in which
he was engaged.

Choir sang " Now let us rejoice in
the day of salvation." The Conference
adjourned till the 6th of April next, at
10 a.m.

President Daniel H. Wells pro-
nounced the concluding benediction as
follows : —

" O God, the eternal Father, at the
close of this our Conference we render
unto thee our unfeigned gratitude for
the blessings thou hast poured out upon
us, and the instructions thou hast given
us during this Conference. We thank
thee that we live in this age and genera
tion of the world, in which thou hast
revealed thy holy Gospel, and thatwe have
become the happy recipientsof thebless-
ings thereof. Qualify u* to perform the
duties required of us with pure hearts,

•RHI- ANNUAL CONFERENCE.

willing minds, and ready hands, walking
uprightly before thee aU the days of
our lives. Direct our steps day by day,
enlarge our capacities, and strengthen
us to discharge our duties in a manner
acceptable unto thee, filling up all our
days in usefulness in thy kingdom,
bringing to pass thy purposes according
to thy good mind and pleasure. Accept
of us now, while we devote and dedicate
ourselves and our < efforts unto thee in
the building'up of thy cause. This we
desire to do in the days of our prosper-
ity, while the hand of mercy and bless-
ing is extended over us, that we may-
labour to accomplish thy purposes witu,
credit to ourselves and honour to thy
cause, producing all things necessary
for the Duilding up of thy kingdom and
the maintaining of thy people in these
mountains, according to the direction*
we may receive from thy servant
Brigham from time to time. May the
instructions which have been given ue
this Conference be acted upon by us
in all our avocations of life. Bless thy
people in all their settlements in these
mountains and throughout the world ;
and in all the avocations and enter-

E rises they may be engaged in that
ave for their object the building up of
thy kingdom and cause upon the earth r
may they be abundantly prospered.
Shield them from the powers of the
Adversary, and from evil influences thai
may attend upon their footsteps ; and
let them be made aware that thy power
is over them. Bless the rising genera-
tion . Enable thy people to train up their
children in the nurture and admonition
of the Lord — to sear up thy kingdom in
their day and generation. Bless the
earth and the elements, that they may
bring forth in their strength for the
sustenance of thy people. Thwart the
plans of our enemies, and may they
waste and destroy each other, while thy
people shall abide in power and in
strength. Gather out from our midst,
the workers of iniquity, and let thy
people dwell in righteousness, and
build cities and temples and public;
buildings in these valleys of the moun-
tains, wherein they shall worship thee r
and none make them afraid ; and finally
receive us to thyself ; and unto thee be
ascribed all the glory, world without
end. All these blessings we ask in the
name of the Lord J esus Christ. Amen.'*

Digitized by

XDZTOBIAL.

78T

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

LABOURS BEFORE THE PEOPLE IN ZION— INFLUENCE
OF TITHING.

By a perusal of the minutes of the Semi -Annual Conference held on the 6th of
October in Great Salt Lake City, we learn that the subject of building the
Temple was introduced by President Young, and received a large share of atten-
tion from Presidents Kimball and Wells, and other Elders who addressed the
Conference. The importance of Tithing and Consecration, and the Saints holding
themselves in readiness to respond to every call that might be made upon them
to carry out tfce purposes of the Lord, was considerably dwelt upon. A large-
company of Sftints was selected to go to the southern part of the Territory for
the purpose of stengthening tfce old, and probably forming new settlements to*
raise cotton, indigo, grapes, and other southern fruits, and such products as
cannot be raised in the northern settlements. Instructions were also given for
the organization of companies of men and teams, with the suitable camping
equipage, to haul stone during the winter from the quarries at the Little Cotton-
wood for the Temple ; and a call was made for all the masons who felt dis-
posed to go to work to prepare the stones for laying up in the spring. The
proposition to build the Temple, when the Saints were questioned respecting it,
was received with gladness; and they unanimously responded in the affirmative-
as to whether they would pay their Tithing and do what is necessary to accom-
plish it.

Truthfully and appropriately has that land been named " Deseret." Its
inhabitants are as industrious and provident as bees. When we reflect upon
what they have done, and the short time they have had to perform their labours
in, and the difficult circumstances and the many serious obstacles they have had
to contend with, we are filled with wonder. The Lord has truly endowed his
people with an extraordinary vitality and energy, and has blessed all their efforts
to a surprising extent. Though not a powerful people, numerically speaking,
they already exhibit in a very prominent manner all the qualities of a great and
resistless nation ; and they combine within themselves every element needed to
constitute an independent and mighty power. How plainly to be seen, fore-
shadowed in their present movements, are those wonderful results which,
according to the Prophets, are to be accomplished by the people of God in the
last days ! The secret of all their success and the power and energy they display
are jto be found ih their obedience to thp counsels and requirements of the Lord,
through his servants. While performing what he commands, they are threading
their way in the path which will lead to true greatness and honour, and to their
development as the mightiest power that has ever existed upon the earth.

We have heard of Saints in this country who have been many years in the

Saturday, December 7, 1861.

788

BDITOEIAL.

Church who have but little or no faith in the principle of Tithing, (and, if possible,
much less in Consecration,) and who seem to be at a loss to comprehend what
benefit can be derived from its observance. Either such persons have been
unobservant spectators of what the labours and progress of the people in Zion
have been, or they have failed to attribute them to their proper cause. For it
has been fully apparent to every one who has taken the trouble to reason upon
the subject, and who have been at all conversant with matters in Zion, that much
of the growth of the Church there, in ability to carry out the various under-
takings where means is required, has been chiefly owing to the revelation of the
principle of Tithing, and the punctuality of the people in paying it. It is true
that there is no single principle of the Gospel that can be credited with the
peculiar prosperity and power enjoyed by the Saints. Every principle of the
Gospel is necessary ; and to the perfection of the system in its entirety, and its
adaptability to the creation of human happiness, and not to some particular
doctrine and practice, must these results be attributed. Yet there are some
-certain results which the revelation and practice of some certain principles will
bring about, and which are especially required for the development and increase
of the people in a particular direction. Of this class are Tithing and Consecra-
tion. Had they not been revealed and practised, the Church would be very far
from occupying the position it occupies at the present time. We include both these
principles ; but in reality wo should only allude to Tithing, for Consecration has
been only partially, and by a comparatively few individuals, obeyed ; and the
results of obedience do not count very largely yet in what we behold. But the
principle of Tithing has been revealed and practised many years, and one of the
results of its observance has been to make us a far more able and influential
people than could by any means be expected from a community in our circum-
stances and our numbers, apart from the practise of the principle. The credit
oftheTrustee-in-Trust of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and
the confidence in his ability to meet all financial engagements, are surprisingly
groat, when the numerous slanders and misrepresentations that have been circu-
lated respecting him and the Church are taken into consideration. Among
mercantile men and others to whom our position is known, a draft of the Trustee
is as acceptable as that of any banker's ; indeed, we have known many instances
irhere his drafts have been received with greater confidence than would those of an
ordinary bank. So widely has this confidence spread, that, in any of the cities
of the United States with whom the Church or people has transacted business,
a properly authenticated agent of the Church could obtain any required amount
of credit. This confidence has grown out of the promptness and punctuality of
the Trustee-in-Trust in meeting every engagement t > which he, as representative
of the Church, has been a party ; and this he has been enabled to do through
there , being a Tithing Fund in existence. In this respect, then, the payment
of Tithing has been a benefit to the Church, and, of course, if to the Church,
to every individual member of it ; for whatever tends to elevate and bestow power
upon the Church enhances the interest of every person identified with it.

But though the above is not an unimportant result, particularly when viewed
as an indication of what the influence and power of the Church will be in the
future, yet there are results which have been witnessed at home in the midst of
Zion which far transcend this in importance. The interests of the people have
been blended to an extent they never would have been, had not this or some other
principle such as Consecration been revealed and practised. Though the Tithing

Digitized by Google

EDITOBIAL.

189

Fund is [not the property of any single individual, it is in one sense the
property of all. Properly speaking, it is the Lord's, with everything else that
Tre enjoy or possess ; and he alone has the right to control and dispose of it; bat
the expenditure of it by him in carrying out his designs is for the benefit and
advancement of the people. And when thus expended, they all can feel that
ihey have one common interest in it. Hence, every public building or other
Work, executed or put into operation through Tithing and held as Church pro-
perty, maintains and strengthens the identity of interest, and adds to the material
wealth of the whole. And the erection of buildings and the carrying on of other
public works by Tithing, give opportunity for the poor, in addition to the
mechanics and labourers who work regularly, to be employed who arrive in the
Yalley destitute of means. A striking incident, illustrative of the influence and
power which can be wielded by the President of the Church, who is also Trustee-
in-Trust, in consequence of the" people's obedience to the principle of Tithing, is
to be found in the history of the past season's emigration. Twelve months ago
this last spring, the experiment of sending oxen and waggons down from the
Valley early in the year, with the intention of having them return the same
season, had been tried, and with complete success. As there were many poor in
Babylon to whom assistance would prove acceptable, it was resolved to repeat the
experiment this season just past upon a larger scale. Accordingly, President
Young mustered in round numbers, about 200 waggons and 1,600 head ofoxen,
and sent down to Florence, under the charge of a number of experienced, capable
men ; and through this very welcome assistance many hundreds of poor Saints,
who without this aid would have been compelled to remain in Babylon, were
enabled to reach the place of gathering without difficulty. This opportune relief
was mainly due to Tithing. It is such acts as these that bring out a people's
greatness and power in bold relief, and cause nations to have wholesome respect
where they might otherwise entertain contempt. And every year, as the people
increase in numbers and wealth, will the ability to perform works of this and a
similar character become greater. It is easy to perceive what power this will
give to the people of God in the lapse of a few years, more especially when the
principle of consecration is understood and fully obeyed. Temples and other
edifices can be built, the poor emigrated, and every necessary work per-
formed that will add to the beauty of the earth, the development of its resources,
and its preparation for its glorious destiny, or that can contribute to the
increase of man's happiness and wellbeing, or the bringing to pass of the reign
of righteousness and peace.

From all the revelations of the Almighty in these days, it is evidently his
intention to institute measures which will have the effect of making the interests of
his people one and indivisible, — not by obliterating every distinction between the
property held by one and that held by another, for that would produce confusion
and check enterprise ; but by their acknowledging him to be the Proprietor of all
they possess, and recognizing themselves as merely stewards, whose duty it is to
improve upon the talents He may give them. The system of finance which He will
introduce will be a very different one from those at present in vogue among
the various nations — systems which very frequently place the interests of different
members of the same State in direct antagonism one with another. The interests
of his people will be identical. They will not be labouring for the accomplish-
ment of their individual ends, but for one common object, the attainment of
which all will be alike interested in. Under such circumstances there can bo

Digitized by Google

790

NEWS FHOlf UTAH.

no conflict of interests. The people, if they continue to abide faithful, most
increase rapidly in wealth, and their wealth will all be available. It will not be
left idle in strong boxes or in vaults, but will be kept in circulation to minister
to the wants of those for whose benefit it will be called into existence.

Saints who are faithful can see, at any rate to a partial extent, the propriety and
desirableness of paying Tithing, and by that means becoming more identified
with the work of God. There are definite promises extended to those who com-
ply with the principle — promises that are unmistakable in their nature. The-
Lord, through Malachi, requested Israel to prove, by paying their Tithing, if he
would not open the windows of heaven and pour them out a blessing which there
should not be room enough to receive. He also said further that if they would
do so, all nations should call them blessed, for 'they should be a delightsome
people. He is desirous that his Saints should test him in a similar manner now ;.
and the Saint who will do so, and will merge all his interests in His kingdom,,
will rise as it rises, increase as it increases, and share in all its glory, honour,
and exaltation, and will have the pleasure of knowing that when he had but one
or two talents he did not hide them in a napkin and bury them, but put them
out to usury, that he might be able to render to his Lord the legitimate and
proper increase of that with which he had entrusted him.

News from America. — By letter from Elder McAllister, dated from New York,
Nov. 9th, we learn that the reports he receives from the Elders are cheering,
though very few are being added to the Church. Emigration is the cry through-
out the land, and the word among the Saints is, " I am bound for the Valley.'*
The poor are putting away their pence. Elder McAllister adds — " Our last year's-
route seems to be hedged up at present. There is another by way of Iowa City
and Marengo. There is one thing certain — the Lord has called his people, and
commanded them to gather home. - He will open up the way. I expect to have
the privilege of striking hands with the Hon. J. M. Bernhisel next Tnursday, the
14th."

Abstract op News from the Conferences. — Elder Clark, in a letter from
Sheffield, dated November 28, says — " The Saints in this Conference are feeling,
well in their holy religion. They are anxiously looking to emigration time, when,
some are hoping that their emancipation from Babylon will be consummated.
We have good meetings. Many strangers attend our meetings and are investi-
gating our doctrines. We have good prospects of soon adding to our numbers by
baptism."

Elder W. G. Smith, writes from Cheltenham, November 26, that " the Saints-
are, as a general thing, feeling to go-ahead in the work of God." The brethren are
united in their efforts to further the interests of the work.

NEWS PEOM UTAH!

(From the a Deter ct News, " October 28, 1861.)

The Completion of the Telegraph.
— On Thursday afternoon the Operator'
connected with the eastern portion of
the telegraph line informed the visitors
who had gathered around his table to
witness the first operations in commu-
nicating with the Eastern States, that
the "line was built," but for some

reason there was no "through" mes-
sage either sent or received tin the fol-
lowing day.

The first use of the electric messenger
being courteously extended to President
Young, he forwarded the following con-
gratulations to the President of the
Company : —

Digitized by

Google

NEWS FROM UTAH.

Great Salt Lake€ity, U. T., Oct. 18, 1861.
Hon. J. H. Wade,

President of the Pacific Telegraph Com-
pany, Cleveland, dhio.

Sir, — Permit me to congratulate jrou npon
the completion of the Overland Telegraph
line west to .this city, to commend tie
energy displayed by yourself and associates
in the rapid and successful prosecution of a
work so beneficial, and to express the wish
that its use may ever tend to promote the
true interests of the dwellers upon both the
Atlantic and Pacific slopes of our continent.

Utah has not seceded, but is firm for the
Constitution and laws of our once happy
country, and is warmly interested in such
useful enterprises as the one so far com-
pleted.

Brigham Young.

On Sunday morning the- following
very becoming reply was received

Cleveland, Oct. 19th, 1861.
Hon. Brigham Young, Prest.

Great Salt Lake City.

Sir, — I have the honour to acknowledge
the receipt of your message of last evening,
which was in every way gratifying, not only
in the announcement of the completion of the
Pacific Telegraph to your enterprising and
prosperous city, but that yours, the first
message to pass over the line, should express
so unmistakably the pat/iotism and Union-
loving sentiments of yourself and people.

I join with you in tho hope that this enter-
prise may tend to promote the welfare and
nappiness of all concerned, and that the an-
nihilation of time in our means of communi-
cation may also tend to annihilate prejudice,
cultivate brotherly love, facilitate commerce,
and strengthen the bonds of our once and
Again to be happy Union.

With just consideration for your high po-
sition, and due respect for you personally,
I am your obedient servant,
J. H. Wade,

Prest. Pac. Tel. Co.

Secretary and acting- Governor Ful-
ler made early use of the wire to salute
President Lincoln, of which the follow-
ing are copies of the congratulations
and the acknowledgements : —

G. S. L. City, Oct. 18, 1861.
To the President of the United States.

Utah, whose citizens strenuously resist all
imputations of disloyalty, congratulates the
President upon the completion of an enter-
prise which spans a continent, unites two
oceans, and connects with nerve of iron the
remote extremities of the body politic with
the great governmental heart. May the
whole system speedily thrill with the quick-
ened pulsations of that heart, as the parricide
hand is palsied, treason is punished, and the
entire sisterhood of States loin hands in glad
reunion around the national fireside.
Frank Fuller,
Acting-Governor of Utah Territory.

791

Washington, D.C., Oct. 20, 1861.
Hon. Frank Fuller, Acting-Gov. of Utah.

Sir, — The completion of the Telegraph to
Great Salt Lake City is auspicious of the
stability and union of the republic. The
Government reciprocates your congratu-
lations/

Abraham Lincoln.

During the business hours on Friday
there was quite an interest in the per-
formances of the electricity, and con-
gratulations over the wire to distant
friends were extended in every direction.
The day throughout was quite an oc-
casion for the moving celebrities of
Main-street.

The Western line, as reported to us,
was to have beeil finished on Monday
evening or yesterday morning — a much
earlier day than the most sanguine
friends of Mr. Street anticipated. The
last poles being set to the west of Fort
Crittenden, Mr. S. has consequently
been detained there, but was expected
in this morning, and will doubtless open
his battery on the inhabitants of the
Pacific during the course of to-day; and
thus the inhabitants of the Pacific and
Atlantic States will be united in electric
bonds.

Having expressed our sentiments on
the building of the telegraph line
through the Territory in a recent num-
ber of the News, we will now only say
that the hope is entertained that at no
distant day the " iron horse " may have
a track prepared for it across the con-
tinent.

Arrival op the Last Train. — God-
be's and Wright's merchant and freight
train, consisting of some twenty wag-
gons, arrived on the 17th instant,
which is the last expected from the
States this season. They had excellent
weather most of the way from Lara-
mie, and no snow, excepting a slight
storm at the South Pass.

GONH SoUTtit, BUT NOT SbORDING.—

The development of the resources of
Washington county and the entire
Southern part of the Territory has long
been considered of £reat importance to
the people residing in these valleys; but
the settlements formed there for that
purpose have not flourished to the ex-
tent desired, from various causes not
necessary now to state. In view of thfc
great demand there will be for cotton

792

SUMXAJtY.

and other products of a warmer clime
than Great Salt Lake and surrounding
valleys, in the event that the civil war
in the East should continue for a num-
ber of years, it has been deemed expe-
dient by the First Presidency to ma-
terially strengthen the settlements that
have been made in Washington county,
and make others where facilities for so
doing exist, that the objects desired
may be more speedily attained than by
the' course hitherto pursued.

To accomplish the desired objects as
soon as practicable, a company, num-
bering over three hundred men with
their families, have been either selected
or have volunteered to eo there this
fall, as the winter below the rim of the
Basin is the best season of the year for
building, fencing, and opening farms
for cultivation the ensuing year.
Of this company, about two hundred
are from Great Salt Lake City and
county, some fifteen or twenty from
Davis and Weber, a few from Tooele,
about sixty from Utah, thirty from San-
pete, and a few from Juab, Millard, and
Beaver counties.

With some of those going we are not
acquainted, and cannot testify as to

their fitness for the enterprise ; but those
from this city and county are among the;
most energetic and enterprising citizens r
and if they fail in turning that part of
the Territory into fruitful fields, it may
be considered an impossibility, so far as-
industry, ingenuity, and perseverance
can be made subservient to that end.

More Goal Discoveries. — Mr. S.
P. Hoyt, who is building a grist mill on
the Weber, below the mouth of Silver
Creek, in Summit county, brought to
this city a few days since some coal
taken from a newly-discovered mine in
that vicinity, some six or eight miles
this side of that opened last season.
Some of the blacksmiths tested it, and

Eronounoed it better than any they had
efore seen which had been taken from
the Weber mines, and equal to any they
had ever used in the Territory.

The Weber country is unquestionably
an extensive coal-field; and if the mines
were opened and properly worked, they
would supply the whole Territory with
coal for fuel and manufacturing pur-
poses. The coal there is supposed to b»
inexhaustible.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy. — On the night between the 23rd
and 24th ult., a detatchment of French
troops made 110 brigands prisoners near
Alatri. They also seised two cannons in
the mountains.

Turkby. — The following authentic de-
tails of the war in the Herzegovine will be
read with interest: — "On the 17th of
October a sharp combat took place at
Syachna, in which there were considerable
losses on both sides. On the 21st there was
another engagement at PWa, which lasted
from six o'clock in the morning until dusk,
and was favourable to the Montenegrins.
On the following day, however, the battle
recommenced, and, after lasting for ten
hours, victory declared itself in favour of
the army of Omar Pasha* The loss of the
Montenegrins was 800, that of the Turks
400." On Wednesday, the 27th ult., the
Montenegrins attacked the village . of
Setztune, burnt Miriki, on the lake of
Scutari, and afterwards proceeded to the
island of Tongemille. Turkish troops
have been sent against them.

CaoATXA,— The General CongrefcatioP of

Croatia has, under certain reservations,
ordered military levies to be made in Cro-
atia, and also notified to all the functionaries
that all official correspondence is to be con-
ducted in the Croatian language.

America. — The steamer Theodora, with
the Confederate Commissioners, Messrs.
Slidell and Mason on board, rail the block-
ade of Charleston on the 18th of October
last. Mr. Slidell, wife, and three daughters
left Havannah on board the Trenton the
7th ult ; and onthe 8th, as the steamer was
approaching a narrow passage between
reefs opposite the Paradon Grands light-
house, Old Bahama Channel, a large war
vessel was observed waiting ahead and
showing no colours. On coming nearer, the>
Trent hoisted her ensign, which met with ne
response from the war vessel. When within,
about one-eighth of a mile, the stranger,
it is said, fired a round shot across the
Trtnfs bows, a£ the same time hoisting the/
American flag. Immediately afterwards,,
it is reported, she fired a shell from a long
pivot gun on her forecastle, which burst
about one hundred yards to leeward of the

Digitized' by V^jOOglC

YABIETIE8.

Trent. Captain Moir, of the Trent, there-
upon hailed the captain of the other vessel,
asking what he meant by stopping his ship.
He replied he wished to send a boat on
board. At the same time one was lowered,
containing two officers and ten men, which
boarded the Trent and demanded a list of
the. passengers, which was refused. Lieut
Fairfax, the officer in command of the
party from the war steamer, which proved
to be the JSan Jacinto, then said that Gap-
tain Wilks, his commander, had received
reliable information that Messrs. Slidell,
Mason, Eustance, and Farland were on
board the Trent, and demanded that they
should be given up. rhis was most peremp-
torily refused, both by Captain Moir and
Commander Williams, R.N., the naval
agent in charge of her Majesty 1 * mail — the
former stoutly denying the right of the
Federal vessel to take any person from under
the English flag. The Commissioners were
standing near, and boldly declared that
they were all present : but being on board
a British ship, they claimed the protection
of the flag. The Lieutenant then said he
would take charge of the steamer, and
waved his hand to the San Jacinto, when
three more boats were sent alongside, in
which were 30 marines and about 60
sailors. Commander Williams thereupon
made the following protest in the ship : — " I
am the representative of her Majesty's
Government, and I call upon the officers of
the ship and passengers generally to mark
my words, when, in the name of the British

793

Government, and in distinct language, I
denounce this as an illegal act, in violation
of international law, and an act of wanton
piracy, which, had we means of defence,
you would not dare to attempt." The men
in the boats then boarded, and came on the
deck of the Trent with bare cutlasses,
and the Commissioners were forthwith
arrested and forced into the boats. The
boats afterwards returned to the San
Jacinto, and the Trent proceeded on her
voyage. The members of the British
Cabinet have held a consultation, and have
decided that the seizure of the Commis-
sioners was a violation of international
law. The Unionists in Tennessee have
been doing terrible damage to the railroads
over which the Confederates might effect
the transportation of their troops. The
splendid bridge north of Nashville has been
burned. The New York journals state
that the Federal Government has not de-
termined whether Beaufort shall be made a
port of entry. Southern journals state that
black flags have been hoisted at Charleston
and Savannah, as an indication that no
quarter would be given and that none would
be asked. The Federal army has evacuated
Springfield, returning to St. Louis. Col.
Cochrane, addressing his regiment at Wash*
ington, urged the arming of Southern
slaves against their masters. The Secre-
tary of War, who' was present on the occa-
sion, was reported to nave fully endorsed
the colonel's speech.

VARIETIES.

Charades. — To half your wish join half your fear, and, lo ! a partner will appear. —
W\fe t What word is shorter for having a syllable added ?— Short. My second has two
legs, my whole no more, and yet my first alone has always four. — Horseman. My first
your blood in secret draws, my second chokes you in bis paws ; but though you must
beware of either, both may be laughed at when together. — Bugbear. I am known to the
poorest and worst, and my worth by a child may be reckoned ; though the least thing in
nature is double my first, and the whole is but half of my second. — Halfpenny, What
belongs to yourself, and is used by others more than by yourself. — Your name.

Thx I^oon amd thb Wxather. — M. Connick's letter to the Courrier des Halles is
exciting great attention. It will be remembered that Marshal Bugeaud had proclaimed
the discovery of an ancient Spanish manuscript, in which the natural laws which govern
the atmosphere were so clearly laid down that nothing was left to chance, and projects
could be made with the greatest security. These calculations, based upon fifty years 9
experience, comprising 600 revolutions of the moon, had enabled the author to foretell the
weather to a nicety j and the marshal, struck by the confidence with which the theory was
broached, after taking some little trouble to practise the same rule of calculation, found it
unerring likewise. M. de Connick now comes forward with his experience also, and at
length we can boast of possessing a key to the pranks of the moon, which will henceforth
render them perfectly harmless. This is it : The weather, eleven times out of twelve, is
exactly the same during the whole moon as on the fifth day, if, en the sixth day it resem-
bles the fifth ; and nine times out of twelve it is exactly the same as the fourth day, if the
fifth day resembles the fourth. This rule, says M. de Connick, is found invariable eight
months in the year. The exceptions have hitherto been October, February, March, and
April

Digitized by

794 POBTBT.

A diwni Hint. — A Scotch boy had delivered a message to a lady, but did not seem in
a burr? to go. Being asked if there was anything else that his mother had bid him say,
Jock whimpered oat, " She said I wasna to seek onything for comin' ; but if ye gied me't, I
was to tak it." We need scarcely add that the hint was taken, and Jock's services were
amply rewarded.

The Haunted Chamber. — A room in the principal inn of a country town had the
reputation of being haunted. Nobody would sleep m it, and it was therefore shut up ;
but it so happened that at an election the inn was quite full, and there was only the
haunted room unoecupied. A gentleman's gamekeeper came .to the inn, exceedingly
fatigued by a long journey, and wanted, a bed. • He was informed that unless he chose to
occupy the haunted room he must seek a bed elsewhere. " Haunted !" exclaimed he;
44 stun and nonsense ! I'll sleep in it ! Ghost or demon, I'll have a look at what haunts
it." Accordingly, after fortifying himself with a pipe and tankard, he took up his quarters
in the haunted chamber and retired to rest. He had not lain down many minutes when
the bed shook under him most fearfully. He sprang out of bed, struck a light, (for he had
taken the precaution to place a box of lucifer matches by his bedside), and made a careful
examination of the room, but could discover nothing. "The courageous fellow would not
return to bed, but remained watching for some time. Presently be saw the bed shake
violently ; the floor was firm ; nothing moved but the bed. Determined, if possible, to find
out the cause of this bed-quake, he looked in the bed, under the bed, and near the bed, and
not seeing anything to account for the shaking, which every now and then seemed to seize
on the bed, he at last pulled it from the wall. Then the 41 murder came out.'* The sign-
board of the inn was fastened to the outer wall by a nut and a screw, which came through
to the back of the bed ; and when the wind swung the sign -board to- and -fro the movement
was communicated to the bed, causing it to shake in the most violent manner.' The
gamekeeper, delighted at having hunted up the ghost, informed the landlord the next
morning of the real natare of his unearthly visitor, and was handsomely rewarded for
rendering a room, hitherto useless, now quite serviceable. All the ghost stories on record
might no doubt have been traced to similar sources, if those to whom the " ghosts "
appeared had been as " plucky " as our gamekeeper.

POETRY.

THE HAPPY LAND.

There Is a land I long to see,

A land of which I often hear,
Whose fertile va leys please the eye,
. And songs of Zion charm the ear.
( Where industry its talent plies,

And makes, as if by magic wand,
. Villages, towns, and cities rise,
And beauteous scenery command.

No poverty \i suffered there,
Nor widow's tears nor orphan's cry
, Can ask. in vain, for help is near,
With fcalm of warmest sympathy.

The State where martyred Saints await

In sleap the Resurrection-day, —
Where the great Zion-city yet
Shall glow with Mght, as Prophets say.
8taflbrdshira>

For Zion must with judgment be
Redeemed ; and by the fire divine

Refined from their impurity,
Her converts in their lives shall shine.

Thus, as the stone shall roll along,

Down from the rocky mountain home,
New scenes shall swell the spreading song

Of triumph, till the Saviour come.
Girt by two mighty oceans, lo !

The promised land of Joseph stands,
Fertile above and rich below,

Preserved for Ephraim's scattered bands.

Its ' everlasting hills', enclose

The happy Deseret— Utah,
Where Saints repose, secure from foes,—

The stronghold of America.

CONTENTS.

8e-ni- Annual Conference held hi Great Salt Lake
City/. 779

Biitoriat.— Labours before the People in Zion—
Influence of Tithing.— News from America,—
Abstract of News from the Conferences. „ 787

News from Utah; 79$

Summary of News and Passing Events* 7ftt

Varieties „, 7*8

Poetry.— "The Happy Land" „ 7*4

LIVERPOOL:

BDFTRD, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, 41, ISLINGTON.
•n»..r B — LONDON:

TO RALE AT THE LAITKR-DA^AINTS' ™*^0, ™g|NCE STREET, CROSS STREET

Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

" A noise shall eome even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy with the nations: he wiU
plead with all fifth; he wiUgive>them that are wicked to the sword, saiththe Lord."— Jiumui.

No. 50, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, Dec. 14, 1861.

Price One Penny.

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE

HELD AT LIVERPOOL, NOVEMBER 10, 1861.
{Continued from page 768.)

President Cannon then rose and said
— "Instandingbeforeyou this afternoon,
"brethren, sisters, and friends, I desire
that the prayers of the Saints may
ascend in my behalf, so that I may
speak edify ingly to all. The principles
■which have been dwelt upon by Presi-
dent Rich are principles that we as a
people should cherish in our hearts.
Indeed, their cultivation ought to be
the great object ol our existence, be-
cause in them are involved our happi-
ness here and hereafter. "When men
or women become acquainted with
the principles of the Gospel, as they
are revealed for the salvation of man-
kind, they have had a treasure revealed
wito them of priceless worth — a mine
of endless riches opened up before
them, the proper appreciation of which
will lead them to seek after the ac-
quisition of those truths which will
fcring salvation to them, and affect for
pood all their temporal and spiritual
interests. This is the object for which
the Gospel was revealed to man. It
was revealed in ancient days for the
purpose of making men and women
happy, and a proper cultivation of its
principles will make them happy now,
even as it did then. They will
enable their possessors to rejoice
under all the contumely and scorn
-which a wicked and a perverse

world may heap upon them, and bear
with fortitude all the trials and suffer-
ings they may be called upon to endure.
Through their possession we can know
the Controller and Governor of the
universe to be the Being we worship
and adore, and our confidence in his
protecting and fostering care is
strengthened and increased. They will
put us in the track to gain eternal sal-
vation and lead us back into his
presence ; and if we have obtained a
knowledge of the first principles of the
Gospel aright, we shall find this in our
experience.

When the first principle was revealed
unto us, and we began to exercise faith
in God — when we got possession of that
principle, we obtained a degree of hap-
piness which we did not possess before.
If we were already in possession of that
principle and repented of our sins, we
obtained happiness through doing so.
There is no person who has sincerely
and honestly sought to do the will of
God, and has ohtained possession of
these principles — has exercised faith in
God and manifested a genuine repent-
ance, but has obtained happiness by
doing so. It is the same with every
principle that has been revealed or will
be revealed from heaven. When a per-
son has gone forth in sincerity of heart
and been baptized for the remission of

Digitized by CjOOg IC

79G

XINT7TES 07 A CONFBBBNCR.

fiins, he has received the blessings
which obedience to that commandment
secures ; and 60 with every other princi-
ple. If they were practised by men on
the earth, they would make them great
and happy, by putting them in posses-
8ion of the blessings of God. This is
the position that we as a people are in.
We have the knowledge bestowed upon
us that tho work we are engaged in is
the work of God, and every principle
that we have received has brought its
measure of happiness unto us. Are
there any principles yet to learn— any
with which we have not become ac-
quainted, the reception of which
would bring us increasing happiness
and aid us in our efforts to obtain a
consummation of our salvation P We
have but entered upon the path that
leads to the exaltation we anticipate
and desire; and the individuals who be
lieve, when they have been baptized
into the Church, that they have done
all that is requisite to secure their sal-
vation, have made but a poor com-
mencement, and understand but very
little of the nature of the work in which
we are engaged. What, then, is there
for us yet to do ? We have to become
acquainted more and more with the
principles which govern the heavenly
beings, to put them into practice, each
day bringing us fresh duties and new
responsibilities, as principle after prin-
ciple is revealed to us, the righteous
fulfilment of which will bring us ever-
increasing happiness. The Prophets of
old saw the day when the Spirit of God
would be poured out upon all flesh,
when every man would know the Lord,
and when there would be no ignorance
concerning the designs of Heaven ; but
a people wonld be prepared, purified,
and enlightened, in whose midst God
could come down and dwell. We
live centuries nigher to that time
than they did, and every day we are
approaching nearer to it ; but how shall
it be brought about P Upon the prin-
ciple, and upon no other that we have
any account of, of the children of men
being instructed in the truths of the
Gospel, advancing from principle to prin-
ciple and from blessing to blessing, till
they reach that condition of excellence
in which they are prepared to endure
tho presence of God. To accomplish this
work, the Lord employs means which

we can comprehend. When Jesus
Christ came down tolabour among men,
he did not call to his assistance the
angels, but he called men like ourselves.
He did not appeal to the heavenly hosts
to come to his aid to declare his mission
and teach the truths of the Gospel to
the people, but he placed the power of
the holy Priesthood upon men and em-
powered them to go forth in the midst
of the people ; and these men went forth
and taught the principles of eternal
life : and so far as they were obeyed, the
blessings which ever accompany their
reception were received and enjoyed.
But the Apostles and those who re-
ceived their testimony were scorned and
rejected by the world, and the churches
suffered violence and persecution. The
Apostles went from place to place and
preached the principles committed to
them, and they baptised hundreds and
thousands, and built up churches in
va -tous lands ; but the world scourged,
imprisoned, and martyred them, and
scattered the Saints. The consequence
was that wickedness prevailed over the
work of God in that age. Still, in the
midst of their sufferings, the Apostles
saw the time when the kingdom of God
would be established in power upon the
earth and wickedness would be over-
come, when that for which they had la-
boured, toiled, and suffered should be
accomplished. But did they see Jesus
himself coming down, or hosts of
heavenly beings, to perform this work
and usher in this long-anticipated con-
dition of things upon the earth P No.
How, then, was it to be done P How was
it to be accomplished P By bestowing
the holy Priesthood upon men, ana
qualifying them for the work. This is
the manner in which the Lord has ever
accomplished his purposes upon the
earth. We have, as men and women
with power to do good, our part to per-
form in the building up of tne kiogdom
of God, and the circumstances which
surround us are different to those which
surrounded the Saints of God in former
times. In the days of Jesus and the
early Apostles the Saints had no place
to gather to ; but, separated from one
another, they became a comparatively
easy prey to that evil power which
sought to destroy them. In this respect
we are more highly favoured than Ujey,
God having provided a land to which

Digitized by Google

MINUTB8 OF A CONFERENCE.

797

the Saints are commanded to gather
from every nation, that by being con-
gregated together, apart from the
a nlioly and corrupting influences of the
-world, they may in that concentration
gain power to establish in stability the
SinS" om °f God, purify themselves
before him, and increase in the know-
ledge of the truth, being blessed with
the guiding influence of the holy
Priesthood.

What, then, is there for you, as a
people, to do? You have tested re-
pentance* baptism, and the imposition
of hands, ano > 7 0U . na ^e received happi-
ness through doing so : God blessed
you. But there are other principles
which you have yet to learn and
practise before you can arrive at that
condition of perfection which will pre-
pare you to enjoy the presence of God
m his glory ; and a knowledge of these
principles can only be acquired by con-
tinually living in the line of your duty
and keeping the commandments of God,
with an eye single to your ultimate
salvation. Hence, in the principle of
gathering, which comes as a command-
ment to you and every Saint in every
land, your aim and desire should at all
times be to accomplish your deliverance,
exercising faith before the Lord that
▼our way may be opened up for you.
God in times past has wrought strangely
iii behalf of his people who desired to
obey his commandments ; and his arm
is not shortened, nor his power cur-
tailed. He will work now for his
people who strive to obey his will as
surely as he ever did for any people in
&ny age of the world. Ye who lack
faith in your God, who cannot see your
way before you, who lack confidence in
tfie overruling providence of God the
Lord, and who have almost lost hope
in your ever being gathered, because
yon are poor,— how do you know but
that the Ix>rd, if you ha^ the faith which,
as Saints of God, you should have,
would put means m your hands to
enable you to associate yourself with
the people of God in the Mountains P
If there were no other way, could he
pot soften the hearts of seme indi-
viduals who have plenty of this world's
*pd— gold — so that they would step
forward and give you the means for
your deliverance P Are such things
rare in the past history of God's deal-

ings with his people P By no means.
That past reveals to us the fact that
when God gives a commandment, if his
people rise up in faith, determined to
obey it, he will overrule and control
circumstances in their behalf to such
an extent that chev will be able to obey it.
Poverty, then, is in reality no excuse for
not gathering. Our experience repels
the apology ; yet it may be asked, How-
can it be accomplished by the poor P
Many of the Saints may nave become
acquainted with the circumstances
which surrounded the Twelve and other
Elders when they were appointed to
come upon their first mission to this
land, auer^their expulsion from Missouri,
— just escaped from the clutches of per-
secuting and relentless mobocrats, tneir
families almost houseless and suffering
from want, and themselves in some in-
stances stricken with sickness. This
was their condition when they were
appointed to go forth to the Eastern
hemisphere with the Gospel — to leave
their families in a sickly land, sur-
rounded by adverse circumstances, anol
' to some extent unprotected. They did
not plead poverty, though they hadl
comparatively nothing. Ihey did not
make the defenceless and unprotected
condition of their families a reason for
refusing to obey the command of
the Lord. God had commanded, and
they felt it was their duty to obey.
They started in faith; and though 8ome
fell sick by the way, they all, with one
exception, reached these shores, preached
the Gospel, honourably fulfilled their
missions, the Lord opening up their way
before them, and, at length returned to>
their families which they had left under
such peculiar and trying circumstances.
The same God who blessed and pre-
served them is just as willing to-day to
bless his Saints as he ever was, if they
will exercise faith before him aright
Then let the Saints make their condition
a subject of unceasing prayer, and ever
keep their emancipation before their
eyes, and their way will be opened up
for them by means so unlooked for,
that when their deliverance shall have
been effected they will look upon it and
wonder how it has been accomplished*
God designs to gather his elect front
the nations of the earth ; and if the
Saints will only do their duty, he will
not fail to perform all that he has pro-
Digitized by CjOOglC

798

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE .

mised. I dare prophesy in my own
name, if not in the name of another, and
am willing to risk my reputation as a
prophet upon its fulfilment, that if the
Saints will do their duty, exercise
faith in the Lord, and labour to make
that faith perfect by their works, their
way will be opened up before them that
they shall be gathered. Aye, even you
here before me this afternoon, though
you may be poor, if you will practise in
your lives the pure principles of the
Gospel, and exercise increasing faith in
the Lord our God, you shall know that
there is a God of power in Israel, and
see that power manifested in your be-
half to gather you to Zion. In the
Gospel we have found the pearl of
great price; but if we are no better
than the world around us — if we are no
purer, exercise no more faith, and
possess no more power, what benefit has
the declaration of the principles of the
Gospel been to us P The Gospel was
intended to raise us from the grovelling
condition in which it finds us and bring us
into close proximity to God, and this
was the object the Lord had in view
when he established his kingdom upon
the earth. When I look around me and
see individuals in this Mission who have
been in the Church twenty -three,
twenty, fifteen, and ten* years, I often
wonder what they have been doing.
Has the Gospel been at all times before
them P or have they thought it enough to
obey the first principles and remain in
England P It was not for this that
the Elders came forth to the nations,
and in the midst of privations and per-
secutions proclaimed the Gospel of
salvation; but it was to build up the
kingdom of God, and gather his people
from all parts of the earth unto one
place. Thank God, mauy have been
Found willing to gather, and have in
faith and with a determination sought
their way to the appointed gathering-
place ; and where they have been faith-
ful they have progressed in knowledge
-and experience to so great an extent
that if those who joined the Church in
these lands at the time they did, but
remained here, deolining to obey the
principle of gathering, were to be as-
sociated with them now, they would find
them far in advance of them in every-
thing pertaining to a knowledge of
salvation. But let me tell you — you

who have been dilatory in this matter,
that the day will come when, if you can
only get across the Atlantic, you will be
glad to travel up to Zion with a bundle
on your back, and thank God that even
thus you have been permitted to escape.
If you osk some of those who have been
so long in the Church in this country
why they have not gathered, their
answer is, year after year, " I have not
had the means." How do 'you think
this sounds to me ? Ask such Saints to
pay their Tithing, and they have not
light enough to see the blessings they
would seeure to themselves by doing soc
they have not faith to realize the wealth
of blessings which it is in their power
to obtain. I speak thus plain to you lb
stir up your pure minds, for they should
be pure, to make this matter a subject
of deep consideration, and never to rest
satisfied until your way is opened up
and your emigration accomplished.
Many of you have fasting enough to do,
at least I understand that such is the
case in several parts of this country,
through lack of employment ; then join
prayer with that fasting. Lift up your
hearts in mighty prayer and exercise a
lively faith before the Lord, and see if
the heavens will not be moved on your
behalf. I tell you, if you will do so,
your wny will be opened up before yon
to gather to Zion. It is our earnest
desire to see the Saints escape from
these lands : our feelings and exertions
are engaged in furthering it ; but we
cannot accomplish it, no matter how
much we may desire to do so, unless
your faith* and. exertions are likewise
engaged in it. When I hear Elders
who have been years in the Church
saying they are too poor to do anything
towards helping to save themselves from
the woe and misery so rapidly coming
upon the nations, hoping and trusting
that some kind friend or relation who
has gone before them will effect their
deliverance, I marvel by what means
they intend to assist in building up the
kingdom of God, and how they can an-
ticipate becoming participators in its
glory. I talk this way because I know
that there is a day of grief, woe, and
desolation near at hand ; and I think it
better to run the risk of hurting your
feelings and causing you to think I am
harsh than to witness you going along
softly and e^^ g un^ y 3@c are oyer-

MINUTES OF A CONFERENCE*

799

taken with the misery that is coming
upon the nations. You must be
warned, many of you must be aroused
from the stupor into which you have
fallen, and those who have not yielded
to such an influence must be upon their
guard, for deep trouble is coming
upon the world like a thief in the night.
While I was in the United States, I did
my best in counselling and advising the
Saints there to sell what they had, and
leave for Zion, for the evil day which
has befallen that nation was then
threateningly approaching. Some
remained, thinking that at a future
time they would be able to do so to
better advantage. Since then, I have
learned that many have gone, and I
believe not in as good a condition as
they were in then ; and, what is worse,
more through fear of the things that
are daily transpiring there than from
any other motive. I speak to-day to
warn the Saints that those troubles will
not be confined to that land. That you
may see what God has done, and is
willing to do for you, is my prayer, for
Christ's sake. Amen.

Hymn — " Lord, dismiss us with thy
blessing." Benediction by Elder
Kay.

6 p.m.

Congregation sang "The morning
breaks." Prayer by President Rich.
Second hymn — " Oh, say what is truth."

President Lyman then rose and spoke
as follows: — "I feel grateful, my
friends, that, through the kindness of
our Father in the heavens, we enjoy
another opportunity of meeting together ;
and I sincerely hope that we shall pass
the limited amount of time which we
may spend together in such a way that
it will not be altogether unprofitable.
In the treatment of a subject so exten -
sive as that of our salvation, there is
naturally afforded an extensive variety
to invite reflection and thought. It has
occurred to me at various times, when
reflecting upon the subject, that
Christians (and by Christians we
understand or would be understood to
mean thoso who profess to exercise a
simple, rational belief in Jesus Christ,)
oftentimes to a great extent forget, if
they ever knew, (and if they know, act
as if they were ignorant of the fact,)
that Christianity is not true merely be-

cause the Bible says it is true, not ap-
preciating the truth in their reflections
on the matter, which, when appreciated
justly, will place man in a proper
position with regard oo it. It requires
no revelation on this matter to prove
that the truth of the Gospel does not
depend upon the Bible now, nor did it
ever depend on it, though, by the way
some people talk about it, we have been
led to suppose that they think, if they
can only prove the Bible to be false, it
would be death to Christianity — death
to the Gospel which the Bible represents
Jesus to na *e taught when upon the
earth ; and war has often been made
upon Christianity by attacking the
Bible, as if, could the minds of men
become darkened by any kind of in-
quisition that might be instituted con-
cerning the Bible until they would
repudiate it, Christianity would be
proved a fable ! How unfortunate they
would have been, if they had happened
to live in a time when there was no
Bible, when humanity travelled the road
which leads to eternal life, guided by
the truth revealed unto them from the
heavens, unaided by the Bible, because
the Bible had no exittence. As Saints,
it becomes us to know what our position
truly is — to know that there is a God,
and that we are related to him, and that
truth is something that has lived ra
ages past, and will live in ages to come,
whatever may be the fate of the Bible.
Jesus, when upon the earth, did not
assign to the, Scriptures the position of
being a sure directory or infallible
guarantee of the blessings of eternal
life. He says, "He that doeth the will
ot my Father who is in heaven, shall
know of the doctrine, whether it be of
God, or whether I speak of myself."
There was no Bible in this — no quota-
tion from Scripture to enforce it. It
was a simple declaration — a plain fact.
Jesus, standing alone— a lone individual
looking out upon the broad waste Of
human degeneracy — though treated
with scorn hj his countrymen, and
looked upon with feelings of disdain by
the world, yet assumed the high position
of teaching them principles that would
redeem mankind from that degeneracy.
He did not refer them to any book ; he
did not ask whether it ever was written,
or whether it ever would be written ; but
simply declared — " He that doeth the

Digitized by

Google

806

1IINTJTB8 OF A CONFKRXNCB.

will of the Father shall know of the
doctrine." The principle of knowledge
that was to he developed in the breast of
man was the principle that was true,
the principle that is true* and the prin-
ciple that ever will be true—the only
one that will bless mankind. Yet here
is a little patch of history— a mengre
and scanty record of the past, which is
sought to be thrust between us and the
great volume of truth. Because this
statement or that declaration was made
by some man who lived in ages long
past and gone, it must be interposed
Between us and those principles which
bad an existence in eternity, and to
which we are as closly related as they
were ! And we are to be subjected in
tlwsajje to — what P Why, to be fed upon
the wind, when to others were brought
tho elements of knowledge, by which
they could possess a lucid comprehension
of the good and the true. When we
road the perplexing language in it, which
has become changed and corrupted
through the rude handling of many
generations, we see that there is more
or less of doubtful import with regard
to some things ; and because some very
smart man, some very knowing man,
has found this out — has made some dis-
covery of the weak points of the Bible,
he fancies he has found the means of
destroying revealed religion. Why, he
has found out errors m the Bible!
Well, who cares for that P It is our
salvation that we are desiring and
seeking after, and it is about their sal-
vation that the world ought to be con-
cerned. If we can gain that, the Bible
will be no worse — heaven no poorer —
will not possess one blessing less. If
we oan only understand and know
enough of God to gain his presence, we
shall enjoy all the blessing humanity is
constituted to enjoy, whether the Bible
I contains errors or not. Then let scep-
. tics feast, and fatten on their discoveries
; of errors in the Bible. What do they
i want to destroy it for P " Why, because
it is a delusion." Is it that part of it
. which tells the drunkard to leave his
♦ poison cup and cease to woo misery and
sorrow P Is it that part which teaches
him to be honest, upright, and truth-
, loving, keeping his lips from speaking
. evil and shunning abomination and
. corruption P Or is it that part which
tells him to love his neighbour and serve

his Lord P What benefit would it be to
the sceptic, if he could destroy roan's
faith in the book which inculcates these
things P Would he add anything to the
happiness of a being constituted to en-
joy the same happiness that all of us are
constituted to enjoy P Why, then,
should Saints care about what is said
concerning the Bible ?

One of the olden time said to the
Saints to whom he wrote — Prove all
things ; hold fast that which is good."
But did he say that to everybody f
Did he tell every one to prove all
things P No. Could he have said it
to everybody P Perhaps he wrote to
Saints who had not been fully instructed
in the first principles of the Gospel.
But he did not say to the unrepentant,
unbaptbed sinner, " Prove all things."
What, then, did he mean P Why, says
one, " I thonght he meant me ; I thought
he meant, all the world." Perhaps you
may think that this is an incorrect view
of the Scriptures. But, that you may be
satisfied that it is not an incorrect view,
let us consider it a little. We have
heard a great deal about gold, its value
and worth; and many think that if
they possessed enough of it, they could
say to misery, Stand by, and drive
poverty from the door. Well, we are
told of some place where it is likely to
be obtained, and we go to wort to
search for it; but we do not know
before we start what it is like, never
having seen any of it. Here is a rock
which we think contains some of the
precious ore ; but we do not know what
its colour may be. nor the qualities by
which it may be known, having only
learned that it is a bright and shining
metal. The first thing we find in our
search is something that is bright and
beautiful ; it sparkles and shines before
our enraptured gaze, and we think it is
gold : we believe it is that for which we
have sought, and the discovery of which
is all that is necessary to gild the future
with the roseate hue of wealth and im-
portance ; and under the excitement of
the moment we forget that we are poor.
Palaces rise in imagination before us,
garnished with all the luxuries which
the boundless wealth that we believe
lies before us can procure, and we see
a future awaiting us, grand as the
vision which rolls across our excited
imaginations, and ourselves clothed

Digitized by

MINUTES OF A OONFBBBNCB.

801

with power and influence in it. With
part of our treasure, we go to some
man who knows something of gold, who
understands its qualities, and is
acquainted with its characteristics.
We approach him with considerable
self-gratification, seeing that we have
been so successful in our search ; but
our visions of greatness are suddenly
and rudely dispelled when he tells us
it is not gold — comparatively but a
worthless mineral. Our castles fade
in thin air, our fancied wealth dis-
appears like a breath, and we find that
we are the same poor, miserable
creatures we were before. Thus man
searches after the truth, ignorant of its
nature, without any certain means of
distinguishing its priceless qualities
from the spurious imitations presented
to his inquiring mind, unless God, the
fountain of truth, should inspire him
with that Spirit which comprehends
the principles of eternity, by the pos-
session of which he is enabled to test
all things, rejecting the false and com-
prehending the true. It was just so
when the Apostle made this declara-
tion. They to whom it was made were
Saints, followers of Jesus, who, having
been baptized for the remission of sins,
were promised the gift of the Holy
Ghost, which should develop within
them the knowledge of eternity, and
enable them t > know the truth through
the possession of the Spirit of truth.
These were the people who were told to
prove all things. But he did not tell
them to go and hunt through the
Scriptures, or to learn what this rabbi
or that teacher said, but^o go and ask
the Father, and, by the knowledge re-
ceived from him, prove all things.
Thus it was with them, thus it is with
you and me, and all who seek to under-
stand the truth which Jesus taught,
and know of the divinity of his mission.
If I believed in him to-day as the Son
of God, it would take the experience of
to-morrow to prove to me that he was
the Son of God. But what would be
the stay, the foundation of that belief?
Why, simply the faith that was de-
veloped in me. I believed yesterday,
and to-day it is demonstrated in me.
This is the beginning of the Saints*
hope and assurance of the Saints* faith
and confidence in God. It does not
rest on the declaration of Scripture or

of Prophets; for if Prophets themselves
were to rise and repudiate the truths
they had taught, the faith of individuals
so grounded would remain unchanged,
because it rests and remains on eternal
truth developed in themselves. While
such is the foundation of my faith, the
opposition of any person to the truth
does not affect me. It does not injure
me, no matter what people say in re-
ference to the Bible, or how they act with
regard to it; for the declaration is— " He
that doeth the will of tho Father shall
know of the doctrine.'* Then the hope
of the Saints, the confidence of the
Saints, is not founded upon the Bible,
the Book of Mormon, or any other book,
but upon truth — eternal truth developed
in the soul.

We have heard of men who were
teachers of the people and professed
preachers of the Gospel turning nway
from what they had preached before,
because some man had found out some
discrepancy in the Bible. What
matters it what has been found out
concerning the Bible, if we can get
possession of the key which will unlock
the treasure-houso of heaven's know-
ledge to ourselves. When Christ was
a wanderer among men on the earth,
he appealed to no record of the past to
prove the truth of his mission, but held
out the promise of a certain means
whereby the people could individually
be satisfied of it. The same conditions
exist with equal force to-day, and the
knowledge of the truth which was ever
obtained by any part of the family of
man is obtainable by us. But I cannot
know the truth for you, neither can you
know it for me ; nor does our salvation
depend upon the truth or falsity of a
book, or men's interpretations of what
is contained in the book, but on truth
fully developed in ourselves— truth
which will save us, because it wiU
elevate us to a knowledge of God, the
fountain of truth, "whom to know is
life eternal." The Bible is of worth to
us so far as the information it contains
conduces to our salvation ; and if we
possess the Spirit of truth, we will ap-
ply the language of the Apostle and
*' prove all things.** But what means are
you going to adopt to prove the book,
the Bible, true or false P Why, first
find out what truth is, whether it be ia
the Bible or in any other book, and then

Digitized by

802

MINUTES OP A CONFERENCE.

you are able to. know whether that
Which is presented to you is the truth
or not. As beings constituted to receive
and enjoy the truth, this is the course
for you to pursue ; for if you strive to
pro^e the Dook true by what is con-
tained in it, you are in no better posi-
tion than those who strive and nave
striven to prove it false by itself.

My idea in speaking thus is to incite
you to look beyond what is merely
written in the Bible, yet desiring to see
you take this book and all other good
books as aids in searching after truth ;
for, as one of old said, " We have also a
more sure word of prophecy, whereunto
ye do well to take heed, as unto a light
that shineth in a dark place, until the
day dawn and the day star arise in
your hearts." No doubt then exists as
to the class of people to whom the
Apostle wrote when he told them to
prove all things, and to hold fast that
which was good, till the time would
arrive when the day star of truth
would arise and shine upon their hearts,
and its glorious effulgence brighten
their pathway to an eternity of bliss.
Well, then, did you ever imagine that
you were to be led to a possession of
the knowledge that is in the Bible,
separate and apart from the Bible P
You pray for it that it may become
yours. It is good to pray for knowledge,
out I want you to try and make an
exertion in the direction that leads to
the acquisition of the knowledge you

(Continued

desire. If you were to send your
children to school, and they were to
pray for the possession of learning, and
do nothing but pray, how long would it
take them to acquire a knowledge of the
sciences, or even the rudiments of edu-
cation P " But," says one, "we do not
expect to learn the truths of heaven in
the same manner as we would the
truths of science." The idea seems to
be that the things of heaven can be
learned upon a different principle to>
that upon which the things or earth
can be learned. Did you ever learn
anything in heaven P If you have ever
learned anything of God, voir have
learned it here on the earth. I learned
it just as I acquired the knowledge I
obtained when I went to school ; and if
I did not acquire any information in
school, I learned it from some person
out of school. I acquired my know-
ledge of the truth the same as I learned
any arithmetical problem. I have
studied and worked it, and have been
working it for thirty years, and it is
that which was true at first and has
been true all the time. It is that which
every man and woman upon the earth
must learn, sooner or later, if they ever
know it ; and in learning it an eternity
will open up before them, rich in the
boundless treasures of discoverable
truth, — an illimitable future spread out
with all the variety and changes that
may be requisite to induce them to love
the truth and seek its acquisition.

on pap e 804.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAE.

Saturday, December 14, 1861.

N3XT YEAR'S VOLUMES OF "STAR" AND "JOURNAL."

The near approach of the New Year reminds us of the propriety of calling upon
the various book- agents throughout the Mission to forward their orders for the
Star and Journal of Discourses as early as practicable. This is a matter in which
we trust all the Elders will feel interested, and hope they will spare no pains in
laying it before the Saints in a proper manner. We have reason to think that
in some quarters the Elders have not sufficiently realized the importance of the
Star and Journal being recognized as auxiliaries in the labour of teaching the
people ; and therefore in such places the subject of subscribing for them
has been seldom mentioned, and never pressed with the proper degree
of earnestness upon the Saints. We do not think we are attaching toe

Digitized by

EDITORIAL.

803

much importance to the influence of the press "when we say that wherever
the periodicals of the Church are most extensively subscribed for and perused by
the people, there the Elders have the least trouble in counselling and teaching
and in regulating the affairs of that portion of the Church under their jurisdic-
tion. The experience of every Elder who has been a sufficient length of time
engaged in the active duties of the ministry to acquire any knowledge upon this
point will, we doubt not, bear us out in the above assertion. The price asked
for periodicals of the Church is quite low — so low that, unless the subscription
list be kept up to a certain number, the papers cannot be published without loss.
The E lders and Saints will perceive the propriety of our urging this matter
upon their attention when we inform them that the issue of the , present Volume
of the Star numbers one thousand less than the issue of the previous Volume,
though there were, according to the returns from the Conferences, upwards of
eight hundred more member* in the Church in Great Britain in the latter part of
the year 1860 than there were connected with it in the latter part of the year
1859. This great falling off in the number of subscriptions while the members
were increasing in numbers is not so much attributable to poverty of means as it
is to a careless and indifferent feeling which sprang into existence upon this,
and other points, but which we hope is rapidly being eradicated from among
the Saints.

Another cause of the falling off is, perhaps, the idea entertained by some of the
Saints that if they subscribe for the Star and Journal, they cannot take them
with them, but that they will be able to obtain them in Utah after arriving there.
But this is a great mistake. Indeed, if even they could procure all the back
numbers there, or, on the other hand, if they could not conveniently take them
with them, the benefit derived from their perusal here will amply repay them
for the outlay.

There is every indication at present that the coming year will be both a mo-
mentous and an eventful one, and it will be highly essential that the Saints should
all be in a position to keep themselves thoroughly informed respecting evei y item
of counsel and movement that may be recorded. We are convinced that there
has never been a time, since the first publication of a Church periodical in this
land, when a greater necessity existed than does at present for the Saints to give
the Star and Journal their cordial support.

Abstract of News from the Conferences. — Elder Eugene Henriod, in a let-
ter from Southampton, December 3rd, says — " We have excellent meetings of "
late, and strangers are crowding our halls. We have baptized eight since Con-
ference, and have something like twelve more ready, besides others very favoura-
ble. I feel well in my labours, and feel that the Lord is blessing our exertions to
spread the truth, and I believe that many will be added to the Church during
the winter and swell up the numbers of those who love the truth."

Elder W. 0. Owen in a communication from Newport, December 4th, says —
"Our meetings are well attended. We are trying to open some new places. The
local brethren are one with me in this, and are on hand to travel fifteen or twenty
miles on the Sabbath, after labouring hard all the week. The sisters are not
behind in this matter."

MINTTTRS OF COlfFKBENCB.

MINUTES OF CONFERENCE.
(Concluded from pagt 80S.)

I want the Saints to learn this, and
realize that this is what they were
called to be Saints for. If you do so,
you are not left subject to my devices,
nor the devices of any other man: but
if you do not know the Gospel you
have received to be true to some extent,
you are in danger of apostatizing — in
danger of being led astray. By whom P
Why, by this of that clever man who has
found out that religion is a humbug,
and the Scriptures all wrong. Wefl,
oven if there should be any discrepancies
found in them, the principles they
teach are the principles which are cal-
culated to make men and women pure,
holy, godly, and happy, — principles
which would elevate and make them
noble, — principles which have God for
their author and the exaltation of hu-
manity for their object ; and to know
this is to be placed oeyond the influence
of this miserable, detestable, mean,
damnable scepticism, which, like a
canker worm, would eat into the very
core of that ennobling faith that leads
man to a knowledge of the truth. Yet
such is the influence which accompanies
the teachings of men who call them-
selves guides and teachers of the chil-
dren of men. They had better preach

furity, if they cannot stand religion,
f they think the Gospel is too strong
for them, let them tell mankind to live
purer, to be just, to lovo one another,
and each to regard his neighbour as
himself and his neighbour's interests as
his own. Let them preach abstinence
from corruption, and inculcate sobriety.
Let them teach this, and stop specu-
lating about the Bible or any other book.
Let them preach principles that will
oauso men, by their reception, to live at
peaoe with one another. This would
nelp to give peace to our war-stricken
oarth, and make it the habitation
of one great happy family. These
principles would purify the world from
war and all its miseries and horrors —
from corruption and all its attendant
degradation. They need not say any-
thing about religion ; they need not
clamour about this belief or that creed.
If these principles were inculcated and
received, the result would be a glorious
regeneration for humanity — a great and

happy future for mankind ; for they
would make man the just, the holy, the
pure, the happy, and the exalted repre-
sentative of his Father; and all thh
contention about the Bible would sink
into its native darkness, through the
inculcation and reception of pure and
heavenly truth. I want the Saints to
understand that the religion of heaven
is not based upon the Bible, nor upon
the Book of Mormon, nor upon any
other book; for it existed before
books were made, before the art of
printing was discovered, or men 'upon
the earth knew how to express their
thoughts in written characters; and the
Bible is but a gleaning from the store
of knowledge possessed by men to whom,
the truths of heaven were revealed.
We are here, our qualities are here, our
constitutional abilities and capacity
are here, and our constitutional inca-
pacity is here, with our frailties and
infirmities; and we are here, out of
all this weakness to be made strong — to
be clothed with power, that we may i\s-
cend to that high and glorious place
from which we have emanated. But
are we going to a high place P Yes.
Why p Because a low place would not
be suitable for our developed capacities
— capacities developed by the reception
of eternal, ever-increasing truth.
Therefore we want to climb the heights
of endless progression, and associate
with those exalted beings in whom
truth has become fully developed.

The useful lesson we draw from this
is that the more we learn only qualifies
us the better to understand and appre-
ciate the truth, and gives us greater
ability to learn and progress in it ; for
there is no point we oan ever attain to
at which we oan stop and progress no
further. It is a noble destiny that
awaits those who are striving after and
learning the truth, to live eternally and
be eternally happy in the enjoyment of
the boundless treasures of infinite truth
which lies before them. I want the
Saints to realize this, and live so as tp
be accepted of God ; and to do this ts
not to believe the Bible to bo true or
false, but to seek to know God and to
understand his purposes. There is no
Bible between (Sod and us ; there is ono

Digitized by

MXOTTES OF A CONFBBENCB.

direct channel, and through that ho will
reveal to his children truth as they are
capacitated to receive it. Knowing
this, we rest not here, and our hope in
the future is strengthened by the expe-
rience of the past. There never was a
truth but there will be another ; and
thus we go on from step to step, ever
'acquiring, ever increasing in capacity
to acquire and enjoy. The truth does
not increase, but our comprehension of
it increases ; and in acquiring the truth
which our enlarged comprehension
enables us to receive, we have robbed
no one. No one knows less because we
know more, nor is their store dimi-
nished. Our labours in the cause of
truth will not be without their reward ;
ibr if we plant in faith, the teeming har-
vest will bless our toil ; if we plant in
<loubtand fear, we shall reap disappoint-
ment and misery. If we sow in faith
and confidence, our reward will be as
the farmer's who sows his seed in faith,
having prepared the soil for its recep-
tion. After a few months of patient
waiting and labour carefully bestowed,
the waving fields of golden grain crown
his toil, his patience, and his hope. It
is the same with you : if you sow in
faith, you will reap rejoicing.

Brother Gannon told you, this after-
noon, to pray with your fasting ; and I
want you should do so. You who have
not a penny, and do not expect to have
a penny for the next five years, pray
loud enough that we may hear you as
we are travelling round ; and when you
pray that God may help you and open
up your way, put your energies into
motion and exercise every power you
have ; for, be assured, we will help the
souls who wish to go and prove their
desires, when any are helped, before
the pretenders. I do not wish you to.
think and pray about it only, but to act;
and the more you act and pray, the
more you will be able to do. Do not
be careless and indifferent in this mat-
ter, waiting until God opens up your
■way* yourselves doing nothing ; out go
to work and exercise the power that is
in you ; for you have undeveloped
power which requires to be called into

[EeporUd by E. L. Sl

action and warmed into life. Pray, and
pray in faith. Tou will find the result
of your praving in your increased exer-
tions, wnich will be to you a soul of
wealth. Be careful of the little . pit-
tance you may get, and let every penny
you can spare be put on one side for
your emigration. Your pennies come
and go, and month after month rolls by,
and still you are no nearer Zion. Now,
I want you should pray and awaken all
the sleeping,energies of the soul ; and
when that is done, there will be a power
at work for your emigration, of the ex-
istence of which many seem ignorant.
I am like yourselves — I want to go to
Ziqn, and I have faith that I shall be
able to go. It is tiue that money is
scarce; yet, by diligence, through faith-
fulness, and with energy, you may
gather, and lack for nothing that is ne-
cessary. We read of faith that will
move mountains; and I want you should
get faith enough to move yourselves, if
you cannot move mountains. Live,
then, to have the practical, working
faith, and set your hearts and faces
Zionward. If you have the knowledge
that your religion is true, never mind
the insinuations of those who say it Ss
false, but press forward in the path of
progress, living free from eveiy thing
that is low, mean, or degrading: for tho
object of our Father in revealing the
Gospel was to raise us above the gro-
velling things of the earth and exalt us
eternally with himself in the heavens.
That wo may adopt and continue in the
faith that leads to exaltation, is my
prayer, in the name of Jesus Christ,
Amen. 11

The meeting was closed by singing
"Let every mortal ear attend," and
prayer by President Gannon.

Thus closed one of the most interest-
ing days the Saints have enjoyed in
Liverpool for years. Considering the
inclemency of the weather, the attend-
ance was good, and a large and respect-
able congregation listened with marked
attention in the evening to the discourse
of President Lyman, which, through
unavoidable reasons, is not so fully re-
ported as could have been desired.
►an and R. M'Ewan.]

There is a sacredoess in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power.
They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition and of unspeakable
love.

y Google

Digitized by *

806

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

LINCOLNSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Grantham, Nov. 27, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— As it may not be un-
interesting for you to hear from this
rather isolated region, I embrace this
opportunity to inform you of our pre-
sent condition, and the progress we are
making. , _ t

I am thankful to say that for the last
few weeks we have baptized a few each
week, and our prospects for the future
in this respect are still becoming more
encouraging. Many are now coming to
the meetings who but a short time ago
despised " Mormonism." One man
told us, about two weeks ago, that he
heard that the " Mormons " were bap-
tizing again, so he made up his mind
to come and hear for himself. The re-
sult of his coming is that he is con-
vinced that we have not only the "form
of godliness," but also "the power
thereof."

Lincolnshire is but a poor country,
but there are some rich souls in it ; and
I am thankful that I am counted worthy
to have the privilege of helping to
gather them into the true fold of Christ.

We have lately increased our number
of Stars a few, but I hope ere long to
see a more extensive circulation of them
in this Conference. I take great de-
light in reading their contents myself,
and I do not forget to stimulate others
to the same. With earnest desires for
your continued prosperity aud the pro-
gress of the work of God throughout the
world, I remain, dear brother, yours
respectfully in the great cause of truth,
John Lindsay.

SHEFFIELD DISTRICT.

Leeds, Nov. 30, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother,— I write to let you
know how we are progressing generally.
The reports of the different Conferences
show an increase in the District since
January 1st, 1861 , of about 120. There
have been seven cut off, and about
eighteen deaths. The District numbers,
as near as I can calculate, about 900
in good standing at the present time,

allowing for some few who may be con-
sidered disaffected, though I believe the
real number of this class is very small.
There were about 88 emigrated from
this District last spring. It will be
remembered that since then the Lin-
colnshire Conference has been detached
from this District and joined to
Nottingham.

The Saints are generally alive to
their duties, and in the enjoyment of a
zood portion of that Spirit which
kadeth into all truth and prompteth to
humility and obedience to the will of *
God, the counsels of his servants, and
all good works. They are ever willing
and on hand to assist with all their
power the spread of truth and the
rolling on of the great work in which
we are engaged. The Priesthood are
generally united and up to the mark.
I have had great pleasure in my as-
sociations and labours with them. They
have upheld me faithfully, and have ever
been willing to obey counsel, with but
one or two exceptions ; and in those
cases they Jiave not prospered, and their
folly has been made manifest even more
visibly than I had looked for it, and
much sooner.

My love to all, and may God bless
you, is my constant prayer.

Joseph F. Smith.

SCOTLAND.
Dundee, Nov. 30th, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother,— With pleasure I feel
to write you a few lines, realizing that
you always feel interested in hearing
of the welfare of the work of God. I
am happy to say that the Saints, with
few exceptions, are feeling very well
indeed throughout the Dundee Con-
ference. We still keep baptizing occa-
sionally, although not quite so manya*
in other places ; but yet feel thankful
for the success that has attended our
labours, and still anticipate reaping
more abundantly in the future.

The Priesthood in general, with the
Saints, are united in their efforts in
spreading the good seed amongst their
neighbours and acquaintances, feeling
that inasmuch as they have been
warned, it is their duty to warn others.

Digitized by

Google

CORRESPONDENCE.

807

Occasionally a few strangers attend the
evening meetings, and pay great atten-
tion.

I have recently returned from a trip
a little way in the Highlands, and I
throughout the whole I have enjoyed
myself first rate in the society of those
amongst whom my lot was cast. I
found a goodly number quite favourable
towards us ; and in the city of Aber-
deen, through the help of our Father in
beaven, we have been enabled to bap-
tize a few and > organize a Branch of
•ight members. They were feeling
first rate when I left, and felt to rejoice
that they had again returned to the
fold.

The spirit of emigration is still pre-
vailing amongst the Saints, and many
are very anxious to gather to their
mountain home. Though poor in this
world's goods, they are showing their
faith by their works in doing all they
can to help themselves, realizing that
the blessings of the Lord will follow.
At* present there are four or five who
have sufficient in the fund to take them
to Florence, and several others expect
to be ready at the time appointed, if no
unforeseen event transpires to prevent.
Yet there are a few who have plenty of
means to take themselves all the way
and to spare, but do not fully appreciate
the benefits therefrom at present, but
apparently will put it off until the day
of opportunity be past, when no doubt
they will reap sorrow for their apparent
neglect, instead of peace and happiness.

May the blessings of heaven rest
upon you continually, is the prayer of
jour unworthy brother,

Wm. S. Baxter.

SWISS AND ITALIAN MISSION.

Geneva, Nov. 19, 1861.
President G. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — On Sunday, the 3rd
instant, I met with the Saints in Zurich,
it being a fast day. The house was
crowded, and we had a splendid
meeting. I addressed the assembly
with a feeling of freedom that is not
often enjoyed when speaking in a foreign
language, and took the opportunity
of presenting the following authorities
of the Church before the Saints,
requesting all to be free in voting
for or against: — Brigham Young as

President, Prophet, Seer, and Reve-
lator of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints in all the
world ; Heber C. Kimball and Daniel
I H. Wells as his Counsellors ; the
Quorum of the Twelve, with Orson
Hyde as their President; all the
various Quorums and officers of the
Church, with their various Presidents.
All were unanimously sustained, and no
dissenting voice or vote was given.
Likewise Amasa M. Lyman, Charles O.
Rich, and George Q. Cannon, as the
Presidency of the Church in the British
Isles and adjacent countries ; and
John L. Smith, as President of the
Swiss, Italian, and German Mission ;
Elders Serge L. Ballif, John T. Gerber,
and Frederick F. Muller, as Travelling
Elders sent from Zion; Elder J. T.
Gerber, as President of the Zurich Con-
ference: Elder Ulrich Forrer as
President of the Zurich Branch ; and
finally all the Priesthood in their various
stations and callings.

Elders Gerber and Forrer addressed
the Saints for a short time, giving good
instructions. I occupied some tjme in
giving such teachings as the Lord put
in my heart, and we truly had an excel-
lent time, one that will be long remem-
bered by the Saints who were present.
Some strangers who were present
remarked that the "Mormons" certainly
had more sense than they received the
credit of having, and seemed well pleased,
feeling a strong desire to know more
of our principles.

Since we have commenced trimming
off the dead branches, the influences of
the Spirit have increased, and the Saints
feel blessed and determined to live their
religion, and do as they would wish to
be done by. Several of the old mem-
bers that have been dropped for some
time are coming back, desiring re-
admission into the fold.

Before leaving Zurich, I assisted
Elder Gerber in organising a class of
twenty scholars to commence the study
of the English language.

On Friday, the 8th, I arrived in
Geneva, and was warmly welcomed by
the Saints, as I had not been here
during the past three months. On
Sunday, the 10th instant, we had an
excellent meeting. A few strangers were
present, who listened with an interest
that convinced me of their desire to do

60S

8UHMARY.

right and live nearer the Lord than
they had done. I felt moved upon to giva
the Branch a more complete organisa-
tion than they had enjoyed since the
departure of the emigration, and pro-
posed the ordination of brother Jaque
Portmann an Elder, and brother Conr ad
Schwitzer a Teacher, which was unani-
mously agreed to. Elder John Lader-
mann (who has been labouring here for
nearly three months,), and myself pro-
ceeded to ordain these two brethren.
At the evening meeting a note was
passed into my hands from two of the
old members that had been cut off some
time when President Woodard was
here, asking to be forgiven and rebap-
tized. They received an opportunity of
speaking, and were received by the
Branch. On Monday they were re-
baptized by brother Portmann, and on
Thursday evening were confirmed.

By letters received from different
parts of the Mission, 1 find that some
new members are being added to the
fold every week, and the Lord is truly
pouring out his Spirit upon those of his
servants who seek to labour with their
might while the day lasts ; and I am
happy to say that the most of the
Priesthood in this Mission at present
feel to lose no time, but to thrust in the
sickle and reap with all their might.

Elder Ballif writes from Durlach, by

Carlesrue, that the most of the Saints
are feeling exceedingly well, and only a
few, who have been so unfortunate as to
have a few hundred gulden in the bank
on interest, hardly know whether they
can swallow the principle of Tithing or
not ; still he thinks they will come to
terms ere long.

Elder Muller writes from St. Immer,
canton Berne, that the old Branch mem-
bers are livening up ; and he has hopes of
soon seeing the Branch in good order.

Elder Gerber writes from Zurich
that he baptized three in his District
last week, and that others are inquiring.
Elder Huber, from East District, writes
that all is moving on well : the back-
sliders are beginning to renew their
diligence, and I believe I may say that
the whole Mission is feeling better, and
giving better examples before the people
of the world than they have done for
some time past.

In Italy the work remains much
the same, although some are inquiring.

My best respects to Presidents
Lyman and Rich, yourself, and family,
and all who would be pleased with, the
same ; also many kind greetings from
the Swiss Saints. Ever praying for
your prosperity and the welfare of the
work of the Lord,

I am, as ever, yours faithfully,
John L. Smith.

SUMMARY OF NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

England. — A royal proclamation, pub-
lished on the 4th inst., forbids the exporta-
tion of arms, military stores, and also lead
from the United Kingdom.

Scotland. — A most calamitous and
heartrending occurrence took place at Edin-
burgh a few minutes after one o'clock on
Sunday morning, in the sudden fall of a
densely-populated "land" or tenement of
dwelling-houses in the lower division of the
High* street* which resulted, so far as has
been ascertained, in the death of thirty-
fire persons, and the injury, more or less
severe, of thirteen others. The tenement
was situated on the north side of ihe street,
between Baillie Fyfe's Close on the west,
and Paisley's Close on the east.

Belgium. — A fearful fire broke cut on the
2nd inst. at the Napoleon Docks, Antwerp.
The Belgian Sugar Refinery, and tie St.
Felix Bonding Warehouses were' burnt
down. The estimated loss is 5, 000,000 fr.
The fire was still raging at the time of last
advices.

Austria. — The Austrian intervention in
the Herzegovina is stated to have been
made with the object of securing free transit
through the military road between Klek
and Ragusa. That object being obtained,
the Austrian troops will re-enter their own
territory. The Austrian division which
entered the Suttorinahas executed the order
to demolish the batteries on the frontier
without firing a shot.

Italy. — A letter from Rome in the Italia
says — " It is a well-known fact that the
Pontifical troops are hostile to the Govern-
ment which they are reputed to serve.
Excepting at the barracks of the foreign
Zouaves and gendarmes, there is never any
meeting of soldiers where ihe immense
majority do*not sympathise with the Italian
cause. To whatever soldier you speak,
hussar, dragoon, or artilleryman, you hear
them all ask the same thing— 1 When is our
King coming P ' I firmly bslieve— and 1
speak from lengthened observation— that
tfcre are nota.WOji^todto lh« Pop*

TABISTIB8.

809

out of his army of 12,000. Tf desertion en
masse were possible, it would take place in
24 hours." A letter of the 1st instant from
Tunn states that on the eve of the great de-
hate on the Roman and Neapolitan questions
there was a pertect Babel of parties. Such
divisions, blendings, and schisms had taken
place amongst the deputies, that it was diffi-
cult for any one to say with whom he could
actor who would act with him. Letters
from Civita Vecchia announce the arrival in
that Papal port of ships having on board the
soldiers of the ex -Duke of Modena, who,
having grown tired of keeping his little
army in idleness, has transferred it to the
Holy See, in order that it may be employed
under the Bourbon brigands, Chiavone and
Borges, in the Neapolitan provinces. These
and other brigand leaders-are still harassing
portions of tho-e provinces, and indulging
in massacre, robbery, burning, and all the
crimes which can be committed by ferocious
partisans.

Poland. — Violence is still the watch-
word of the Russian Government in Poland.
The last expedient for putting down the
agita'ion is to take from the Polish towns
10,000 recruits for the army — a proceeding
which amounts to something like a de-
cimation of the able-bodied portion of the
male inhabitants. The number of persons
lying in the Polish fortresses, or sent to
Siberia and the Caucasus, already amounts
to upwards of 10,000, and is increasing
eyery day at a frightful ratio.

Ambbica.— The ex-Commander-in-Chief
of the American Federal army, General
Scott, who is now in Paris, has forwarded to
the United States consul a letter in which
he declares 11 there is no truth in the re-
port that the Cabinet of Washington had
ordered the seizure of the Southern Com-
missioners, even if under the protection of
a neutral flag." The accounts from Port
Royal show that the Federal fleet has ob-
tained possession of one of the best and
largest Harbours on the coast of America,
and that the Federal army has obtained a
position from which it will be very difficult
lor the Confederates to drive it. The
harbour of Port Royal is a safe and exten-
sive anchorage, wiih an entrance about
three miles wide, and water deep enough to
admit the largest frigates. The island of
Hilton Head, or Trench Island, on which
the Federal army has landed, is from ten to
twelve miles in .length, and from three to
four in breadth; there are few buildings
upon it, and all the white inhabitants had
fled, after burning the cotton on their plan-
tations. A single bale of cotton had been
taken to New York as a trophy, and that
appears to have been pretty nearly all that
was taken. The town of Beaufort, on Port
Royal Island, higher up the bay, .was also
deserted by the white inhabitants, and laid
waste, either bv them or the negroes, who
seem to have taken the opportunity of doing
as much mischief as possible.

VARIETIES.

Your cabman is the most aspiring of mortals : no matter what bis rank may be, he it
always looking for a hire.

Punctuation. — The following example of mal-punctuation strongly illustrates the
necessity of putting stops in their proper places : — " Caesar entering on his head, his
helmet on his feet, armed sandals on his brow, there was a cloud in his right hand, his
faithful sword in his eye, an angry glare saying nothing, he sat down." The proper

Eunctuation makes the same words convey far different ideas: — " Caesar entering ; on
is head his helmet, on his feet armed sandals, on his brow there was a cloud, in his
right hand his faithful sword, in his eye an angry glare. Saying nothing, he sat down."

Big words are great favourites with people of small ideas and weak conceptions. They
are often employed by men of mind when they wish to use language that may best conceal
their thoughts. With few exceptions, however, illiterate and half-educated persons use
more ** big words " than people of thorough education. It is a very common, but very
egregious mistake to suppose that long words are more genteel than short ones, just as the
same sort of people imagine high colours and flashy figures improve the style of dress.
They are the kind of folks who don't begin, but always 1 'commence." They don't live,
but 44 reside." They don't go to bed, but mysteriously " retire." They don't eat and drinfc,
but M partake of refreshments." They are never sick, but extremely indisposed." And
instead of dying, at last, they " decease." The strength of the English language is in its
short words—chiefly monosyllables of Saxon derivation ; and people who are in earnest
seldom use any other. Love, hate, anger, grief, joy express themselves in short words
and direct sentences, while cunning, falsehood, and affectation delight in. what Horace
calls verba sesquipedalia—vorfa a " foot-and-a-half long."

Digitized by Google

810

POETBY. — MARRIAGE. DEATHS.

A Sevkre Retort. — A young and pretty girl attended a ball at Oshkosh, Wisconsin,
decked off in *.he short skirt and pants. She was the only one present in the mode. The
other ladies were shocked — very much shocked. Ttfey regarded her short skirts as im-
modest. She quietly remarked that if they would pull up their dresses about the neck as
high as they ought to be, their skirts would be as snort as hers !

Slander. — 14 If it is a false a- cusation that stings your sense of honour andjustice, live it
down. Soon your name will be gilded with light, all obscurity dissipated, and your character
vindicated without a word dropping from your trembling lips. Yes, live it down, if
your motives are impugned, and your life is made a kaleidoscope in the hands of men,
varying in its form and colours as each one-turns it round and peers curiously in to detect
•some new appearance. If the friend who sat by your side when the storm-cloud was
riven and your quivering form shook beneath the shock, now gazes unmoved upon your
conflict with life's stern realities, and he who walked confidingly by your side now seeks
some other path, or meets you in the busy haunts of life with rigid lip and pulseless heart,
bear on. You will come forth from the shadow of distrust into the sunlight of unelouded
peace. Yes, live it down ! A silent, consistent life will speak when the slanderer's
tongue is silent in death. "

Silence in Nature. — It is a remarkable and very -instructive fact that many of the most
important operations of nature are carried on in unbroken silence. There is no rushing
sound when the broad tide of sunlight breaks on a dark world and floods it wirh light, as
one bright wave over another falls from the fountain, millions of millions of miles away.
There is no creaking of axles or groaning of cumbrous machinery as the sclrd earth wheels
oh its way, and every planet and system performs its revolutions. The great trees bring forth '
their boughs, and shadow the earth beneath them ; the plants cover themselves with buds, '
and the buds burst into flowers ; but the whole transaction is unheard. The change
from snow and winter winds to blossoms and fruits and the sunshine of summer is seen in
its slow development, but there is scarcely a sound to tell of the mighty transformation.
The solemn chant of the ocean, as it raises its unchanged and its unceasing voices, the
roar of the hurricane, and the mighty river, ami the thunder of the black-browed storm, —
all this is the music of nature — a great antf swelling anthem of praise, breaking in on the
universal calm. There is a lesson for us here. The mightiest worker in the universe is *
the most unobtrusive.

P E THY,

THE PRIESTHOOD.

How noble are thy sons, Lord,

Who heavenly tidings bear.
Who bring salvation to mankind,

And words of truth declare.

They shall with Christ in Zion stand,

If faithful to his cause,
And soar above earth's haughty ones,

Through hon'ring heaven's Jaws.
Though now despised through Gentile lands

That spurn the Gospel plan

And scorn the messengers of tight
And life to erring man,

Yet with the Priesthood's power clothed,

Their acts Jehovah owns ;
And soon crowned kings by Heaven's decree,

They'll nil eternal thrones.

"When earth's proud kmgs shal be abased,
Their thrones and sceptre* riven,

Those crowned with priestly, kiu^ly power
Shall make of earth a heavon.

Married— At Nephi city, on the 27th ult., by Elder^Thomas Wright, Mr. William Hunter, of Cedar citr,
and Mjss Emma Freeman, late from England. W

Died— At Cedar city, Iron County, May 26th, 1861, MrY Anny Middleton, formerly Anny Parsons, of
Windham, Norfulk, England, aged 47 years. In Ogden cit> f , September 26th, Mr. John Hom>cks/a£t*LM
years, 6 months, and 26 days, late from Macclesfield, Cheshire, England.

^ CONTENTS.

Minutes of Liverpool Conference 795 Letter from John L. Smith.. 80S

Editorial — Next Year's Volumes of Star and Summary of News and Passing Events : 808

Journal.— Abstract of News from the Con- Varieties 809

ferences. 802 Poetry.— "The Priesthood." .'.*....* 810

Correspondence.— England: Letters from J. Lind- Marriage « 810

say and J. F. Smith.— Scoi lan i: Letter from Deaths 810

W. S. Barter.— Swiss and Italian Mission:

- ; •

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY ft ROUGE Q. CANNON, 42, 18LINGT0N,
^ mmA LONDON:

WOK SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' iiuuiv i^rul, 80, FLORENCE STREET, CR *S STRElY,
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS,

Digitized by Google

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

A notsethall come even to the ends of the earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy milk the nations: he vrU
plead with all/tesh ; he will five them that are wicked to the sword, saith the Lord." — JithKMiAH.

1*0. 51, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, Dec. 21, 1861.

Price One Penny.

MISSOURI AS IT WAS, AKD AS IT IS.

Colonel Jennison, "who, "with his
regiment, the First Kansas Cavalrv,
is engaged in protecting supply trains
and other Government property in the
western part of the State of Missouri,
has i^ued a proclamation to the people
of Jackson, Lafayette, Cass, Johnson,
and Pitts counties in that State ; from
which the folio wing extracts are made : —

44 1st: All who are now in arms against
the Government of the Uuited States in
the above-named counties, and who will
surrender their arms and ammunition to
me, and deliver to me all Government pro-
perty in their possession and under their
control within reasonable time, and shall
sian a deed of forfeiture, and aha.ll here-
afier pertorm their duty as good and loyal
citizens, shall not be held responsible for
pa*t acta of rebellion, but shall be pro-
tected in their lives and property. 2nd :
Jrm< which are thus surrendered to me
shall be stored and taken account of; so
that, when the present difficulties are settled,
the owners thereof can obtain them. 3rd :
Persons who shall surrender themselves to
me, in order to make arrangement for secur-
ing peace to their neighbourhoods, shall be
respected in their rights while arranging or
attempting to arrange any terms, and shall
be. allowed to return to their homes, even
should they, after a conference, fail to come
tnany arrangement or understanding. 4th :
All who shall disregard these propositions,
and shall continue in armed rebellion against
the Government of the United States, shall
le treated as traitors, and slain, wherever
found ; their property shall be confiscated,
their houses burned, and In no case will

any he spnred either in person or property
who refuses to accept these proposiiions.
The deed of forfeiture accowpamjinf/ these
propositions conveys all real and personal
propertu, includintf present and future
acquisitions, into the hands of the Govern-
ment, said property to be used by the
Government.

For four months our armies have marched
through your country ; your professed
friendship has been a fraud ; your oaths,
of allegiance have been shams of per juries ;
you feed the rebel army ; you act as spies t
while claiming to be true to the Union.
Wo don't cure about your past political
opinions: no man will be 'prosecuted because
he differs from us, but neutrality is impos-
sible. If you are patriots, you must fight ; if
you are traitors, you will be punished. The
time for fighting has come. Every man who
feeds, harbours, protects, or in any* way gives
aid and comfort to the enemies of the Union,
will be held responsible for his treason
with his life and property ; while all the pro-
perty of Union men and all their rights will
be religiously respected. Traitors will
everywhere be treated as outlaws, enemies
of God and man, too base to hold any
description of property, and having no
rights which loyal men are bound to
respect. The last dollar and the last slave
of rebels will be taken and turned over
to the General Government. Playing war
is played out ; and wherever Union troops are
fired upon, the answer will boom from can-
non, and desolation will follow treason. All
the land between Fort Leavenworth and the
headquarters of the army of the West is
under the jurisdiction of the United States ;
and we propose to have a regular road over
it, and safe communication through it,— no

812

MISSOURI AS IT WAS, AND AS IT 18.

matter at what cost of rebel treasure and
blood."

We have italicised the most note-
worthy points of this proclamation. In
perusing these sentences, events which
took place in this same State of Mis
souri in years gone by are forcibly le
called to our mind. Proclamations and
orders which were then issued with all
the pomposity and authority which the
enjoyment of unchecked power, accom-
panied by inflated pride, could inspire,
are vivid iy brought to remembrance.
In the year 1838, orders and procla-
mations were fulminated by one Liiburn
W. Boggs, Governor of the State of
Missouri, and Commander-in-Chief of
her forces, and his confederates, trai-
tors, like himself, but who enjoyed,
high-sounding military titles, as
cruelly terrible as the one of Col. Jen-
nison, from which we publish the ex-
tracts above. But they were against
the Latter-day Saints.

A few Saints had collected together
in Missouri, and they were united and
industrious— two odious crimes in the
estimation of the narrow-minded, shift-
less Missourians who surrounded them.
They also testified that God had es-
tablished his kingdom, and that they
were engaged in building it up, and
that, according to the Prophets, it
would till the whole earth. It was bad
enough in Upper Missouri, at that time,
for a people to be united and indus-
trious ; but when, in addition to these
faults, they had such an ambition as to
think that the system they were identi-
fied with would fill the earth, they be-
came absolutely unbearable to the igno-
rant, savage herd which surrounded
them— a people whose habits of life and
and tastes raised them but little above
the wild, untutored red men who dwelt
on their borders. They plainly saw
that the persevering, enligntened in-
dustry of the Latter-day Saints, if they
should be permitted to dwell un-
molested in a country so rich as Mis-
souri was in all the elements of wealth,
"would soon place them far in advance
of themselves in everything which
would make a people powerful, influen-
tial, and happy. This reflection was
gall ami wormwood to them. Instead of
being thankful for the influx of enter-
prising settlers, whose improvements of
the country would enhance the value of

their own property, and whose virtue*
and example they might emulate, they
were filled with envy and hatred, and
banded together in mobs for the pur-
pose of driving them, accusing them of
disloyalty and other crimes, to giro a
colour of justice to their own bloody,
perfidious, and treasonable acts. Not
only were mobs permitted to organise)
themselves and murder and destroy,
without the Government interfering with
them, but the highest officers of the
State endorsed the action of these unlaw-
ful assemblages, and prostituted the
power which they held by virtue of their
exalted positions to consummate the
designs of the mob, by calling out the
Militia (which was composed mostly of
these very moboerats,) to operate
against the Saints, thus doing illegal
and unconstitutional acts under a sem-
blance of law.

AVe make the following extracts from
orders written by the Governor of the
State (Liiburn W. Bogga) to Major-
General Clark. Commander of one of the
Divisions of the Militia of the State :—
"The Mormons must be treated as ene-
mies, and must be exterminated or driren
from the State, if necessary, for the public
good. Their outrages are beyond all
description. If you can increase your force,
you are authorized to do so to ^ny extent
you may think necessary. I have just issued
orders to Major-General Wallock, of Marion
county, to raise five hundred men, and to
march them to the northern port of Davies,
and there to unite with General Doniphan,
of Clay, who has been ordered with fire
hundred men to proceed to the same poin%
for the purpose of intercepting the retrfet
of the Mormons to the north. They have
been directed to communicate with yon br
express : you can also communicate with
them, if you find it necessary. Instead,
therefore, of proceeding as at first directed,
to reinstate the citizens of Davies in tbeir
homes, you will proceed immediately to
Richmond, and there operate against tfce
Mormons. Brigadier-General Parks, cf
Tfay, has been ordered to have four hundred
men of his brigade in readiness t*> join you
at Richmond. The whole force will be
placed under your command.'*

"The case is now a very plain one — the
Mormons must be subdued, and peace
restored to the community. You will there-
fore proceed without delay to execute tho
former orders. Full confidence is reposed
in your ability to do so : your force will be
amply sufficient to accomplish the object.
Should you need the aid of artillery, 1 would
suggest that an application be made to the
commanding officer Of Fort Leavenworth
for such »s you *jHJptfC Y <* •» •«*••

MKSOFBI AS IT WAS, AND AS XT IS.

818

Tiaed to request the loan of it in the name of
the State of Missouri. The ringleaders of
this rebellion should he made an example
of; and if it should become necessary for the
public peace, the Mormons should be exter-
minated, or expelled from the State"

The following extracts are from the
speech of General Clark made to the
Saints at Far West, Missouri, while
they were snrrounded by his mobo-
cratic troops: —

** Gentlemen, — You, whose names are not
attached to this list of names, will now have
the privilege of going to your fields and
providing corn, wood, &c., for your families.
Those who are now taken will go from this
to prison, be tried, and receive the due de-
merit i f their crimes. Bnt you (excopt Rueh
jur charges may hereafter be preferred
against,} are now at liberty, as soon as the
troops are removed that now guard the place,
which I shall cause to be done immediately.
It now devolves upon you i/t fulfil the treaty
that yo j have entered into, the leading items
of which I shall now lay before you.

The first requires that your leading men
be given up to be tried according to law :
this you have already complied with. The
second is, that you deliver vp your arms :
this has been attended to. The 'third stipu-
lation is, that you sign over your properties
to deft ay the expenses of the tear : this you
have also done.

The orders of the Governor to me were,
that you should he exterminated, and not
allowed to remain in the State ; and had your
leaders not been ^iven up, and the terms
of the treaty complied with, before this you
and your families would have btendestroyed,
and your houses in ashes.

If I am called here again, in case of a non-
compliance of a treaty made, do not think that
I shall act any more as 1 have done. You need
not expect any mercy, but extermination ;
for I am determined the Governor's order
shall be executed. As for your leaders, do
not once think — do not imagine for a moment
—do not let it enter your mind, that thoy will
be delivered, or that you will see their faces
again; for their fate isfxed — their die is
oast — THEIR DOOM 18 SEALED."

One might almost with propriety
think, in reading the above extracts,
that Colonel Jennison had referred to
the orders and speeches N of Boggs, Clark,
and their confederates in the guilt of per-
secuting and destroying the Saints, and
drawn therefrom the exact language he
uses to the people of Upper Missouri
and the terms he demands of them.
Substitute the word " Mormon " for
"traitors," and you have precisely
similar phraseology to that used afore-
time against the Saints. " Traitors will
everywhere be treated as outlaws, enemies
nf God and man, too base to hold any de-

scription cf property, and having no rights
which loyal men are bound to respect."
"All who shall disregard these propo-
sitions, i(c, shall be treated as haitors\
and slain wherever found ; their property
shall be confiscated, their houses burncd. n
Traitors are required to 41 surrender
their arms and ammunition to me." They
"shall sign a deed of forfeiture" which
Bhall 44 convey all real and personal pro-
perty, including present and future ac-
quisitions into the hands of the Govern-
ment, to be used for the benefit of the Go-
vernment."

It is not now the sovereign state of
Missouri versus the poor, despised Lat-
ter-day Saints, but it is the Federal
Government versus the traitors of Mis-
souri. It is not the leading officers of
a great State in the plenitude of their
power overriding the Constitution and
laws, levying war and issuing extermi-
nating orders against an innocent, un-
offending, and helpless people; but it
is the parent Government, to u hich evon
the great and sovereign State of Mis-
souri is amenable, inflicting the penalty
of rebellion and executing decrees
against traitors — traitors whose heads
have become hoary since their vile trea-
son drenched the soil of their State with
innocent blood, and whose crimes have
remained unpunished until the present.
It is not now the citizens of Jackson
county in convention assembled,
pledging to each other *' their bodily
powers, their lives, their fortunes, and
t^cir sacred honours " that tbey would
drive from their midst the few "deluded
fanatics " who had settled near them,
who 41 pretended to receive communi-
cations and revelations direct from hea-
ven," and whom they basely and falsely
accused of tampering with their slaves;
but it is an officer ot the General Go-
vernment at the head of a powerful
force who tells the people of this same
Jackson county that "the last dollar and
the last slave of rebels will be taken and
turnedovertothe General Government."

14 Vengeance is mine, saith the Lord,
and I will repay."

The Prophet Joseph, in speaking of the
attempts made by many of the Missouri
newspapers to cover up the murders
and outrageous acts of their officers and

?eople, asked — u Can they conceal the
act that we have been imprisoned for
many months, while our fain dies, friends,

Digitized by LjOOQ IC

814

TflB " AMSNDB HON OtTB ABLB.**

and witnesses have been driven
away P Can they conceal the Mood of
the murdered husbands and fathers, or
stifle the cries of the widow and the
fatherless P Nay. The rocks and
mountains may cover them in unknown
depths ; the awful abyss of the fathom-
less deep may swallow them up, and
still their horrid deeds will stand forth
in the broad light of day, for the won-
dering gaze of angels and of men!
They cannot be hid." He says again—
" I say unto you, that those who have
thus vilely treated us, like Haman,
shall be hanged upon their own gallows;
or, in other words, shall fall into their
own gin and snare and ditch and trap
which they have prepared for us, and
shall go backwards and stumble and
fall, and their name shall be blotted nut,
and God shnll reward them according
to all their abominations."

The Lord, speaking through him, says
at another time — *' Woe unto all those
that discomfort mv people, and drive and
murder and testify against them, saith
the Lord of Hosts. A generation of
vipers shall not escape the dam-
nation of hell. Behold, mine eye seeth
and knoweth all their works, and I have
in reserve a swift judgment in the sea-
son thereof for them all ; for there is a
time appointed for every man, accord-
ing as his works shall be."

And again, the Lord says, in speak-
ing unto nis people respecting the com-
mandments which he gives them to do
a work unto his name, but which their
enfemies, by coming upon them, hinder
them from performing:— "Therefore
for this cause nave I accepted the offer-

ing of those whom I commanded to
build up a city and a house unto my
name in Jackson county, Missouri, and
were hindered by their enemies, saith
the Lord your God ; and I will answer
judgment, wrath, and indignation, wail-
ing, and anguish, and gnashing of
teeth upon their beads, unto the third
and fourth generation, so long as they
repent not ana hate me, saith the Lord
your God."

By perusing these prophecies, the
reader is at no loss to understand why
Col. Jennison and others should be
moved upon as they are to strongly
threaten and harass the people of Mis-
souri. The word of the Lord has gone
forth respecting them, or respecting
that portion of them that took part in
or approved of the robbery and murder
of the Saints, and it cannot return un-
fulfilled. Colonel Jennison may not
accomplish all he threatens ; but his
proclamation and other proclamations
which have been made in the State ex-
hibit unmistakably the spirit and feel-
ing which are entertained towards the
people of Missouri. The State is a bat-
tle ground for both parties—Federals
and Confederates, and both breathe
forth vengeance against their opponents;
so that between both, with the spirit of
anger and hatred which is in existence*
there is but a slight prospect for any of
the inhabitants to escape. While the
prophecies of the servants of the Lord
are so visibly and strikingly coming to
pass, we feel that it is but right that
the attention of the people should be
called to them, and that a record should
be made of their fulfilment.

THE "AMENDE HONOURABLE."

We have great pleasure in extracting from the Deseret News the following in-
teresting communication from Superintendent Martin to the Editor. It is one
example out of many of the way in which the Saints Have been misrepresented bj
p< rsans who have judged of them and their doings by mere hearsay, rather than,
from any bonajide knowledge of either. There is ample evidence of the fact of
their being a peaceful and law-abiding people, patent to all who look for it in the
right direction. They desire only freedom to live their religion, unmolested, and
to build up God's kingdom on the earth — a kingdom that will benefit all and in-

1'ure none who enrol themselves under its banner of peace and righteousness — %
kingdom that'will include within its boundary all good men of every grade of
creed, who, while they claim the liberty of worshipping the God of their fathers
in their own way, are willing to extend the same liberty to others. It is refresh-
ing to find an occasional instance like the following of men who, having under a
fafce impression misrepresented the Saints, afterwards discover their error, and

Digitized by Google ,

TBI 44 AXSNBX HONOUBABLB."

815

then show a spirit of manliness and candour in avowing that error and repairing
the wrong thus done.

If every man who has spoken or written defamatory of the people in Utah had
been as honest as Superintendent Martin has proven himself to be in this matter,
-we should have had many such letters as the following. ^ But, instead of this,
our numerous defamers, when they have found out their mistake, (for there are
many instances of this,) have slunk away as if in fear of the truth* coming
to light. All honour to Henry Martin, Superintendent of Indian Affairs ! and
may he continue to manifest the same spirit of truthfulness and justice which
now characterises him!

Office, Indian Affairs,
G. S. L. City, U. T., Oct. 14, 1861.
To the Editor of the Deseret News,

Great Salt Lake City.

Sir, — I deem it due to myself and the
citizens of this Territory to make a frank
and free explanation of my position in rela-
tion to certain charges published in the
New York Herald of 20th September last,
claimed to be taken from my correspondence
with the Indian Department at Washington.

To fully explain my communication, I
will first state the article entire that I refer
to, which is as follows : —

" The Commissioner of Indian Affairs re-
ceived to-day important advices from In-
dian Agent Martin, dated Great Salt Lake,
September 3rd. He states that he can,
with the present appropriations, easily take
care of the Indians in his superin tendency,
sofar as keeping them from committing any
further depredations on emigrants, the Over-
land Mail Company, or the Telegraph line.
They have been very hostile and unruly,
from the fact that there is not hunting and
fishing in Utah Territory to support them
without help from the Indian Department,
which he says he is satisfied they have not
received. He says further that he can
take care of and pro ect the Telegraph and
Overland Mail Company in the Terri-
tory of Utah, without the help of troops; but
that they are to take care of the Mormons.
He says Brigham Young gave notice, some
days ago, in church, that he intended to send
about one hundred and fifty families to set-
tle in Uinta Valley. He says it is of the
utmost importance that the Government
declare that section as Indian reservation,
in order to prevent Mormons sealing
there. He says the Mormons are declaring
their design to separate from the United
States, and erect their Territory into an in-
dependent province. The Mormons further
declare that no more Government trains
shall pass through their Territory hereafter.
The * Government has taken measures to
meet this difficulty."

Consistent with my instructions as Su-
perintendent of Indian Affairs for this
Territory, and with my sense of duty, im-
mediately on my arrival, 1 sought for infor-

mation as to the true state and condition of
the Indians in this Territory. My inquiries
of the persons with whom 1 had official
duties, and also others with whom I came
in contact, led me to the conclusion that, for
protection of the Mail and Telegraph, troops
were perfectly uncalled for, and could only
be a benefit to contractors at a great risk of
general evil to the Indians and citizens of
the Territory. At the same time certain
parties from the East, sympathizing with,
if not avowed, secessionists, took the trouble
to represent that a party was formed in Co*
lorado Territory, for the purpose of cutting
off all communication between the East ana
the West, insinuating that if the secession*
ists succeeded in their scheme the people
here would be induced to declare their inde-
pendence.

The excitement created by such state*
meats, together wiih the malicious repre*
sentations of a late Indian official, led me
to make statements, in private communica*
tions to a friend of mine in the Indian Bet
partment, that 1 have since found to be very
erroneous.

The representations that had been made
to the Indian Department by one of its late
agents here had led to my receiving in*-
structions to prevent any imposition upon
the rights of the Indians. Hence, when I
learned of the mission to Uinta, I conceived
it my duty to request of the Department its
instructions in the premises. I find, by fur-
ther investigation of that matter, that it is
unnecessary and impolitic to in any way
interfere with that valley. I also deny
having made, in any form, the statements
that the Mormons said no more Government
trains should pass through the Territory,
and further, that they were about to de-
clare their independence.

While I state the circumstances and asse-
ciations which led to my writing as much as
I have written, I disclaim any malicious in*
tention to injure the people here. 1 beg
further to say that I regret having written
before I bad personal knowledge of the
people and of their intentions ; but when
the many mis-statements heretofore made
to the people of the United States in r« gard
to the citizens of this Territory are con-

Digitized by

810

HISTOBY OF TOSBPfiT StfXTB.

•Meted, it is not a subject of surprise that I
and others should have been so easily in-
clined to lend an ear to listen to the present
false charges against such citizens, and
foolishly give credence to those malicious
statements. I most sincerely regret pre-
cipitancy in writing, and, as far as I may be
favoured with an opportunity, hone to pro-
perly represent the citizens of Utah as a

law-abiding and peaceful community, as ay-
subsequent intercourse with the peopft*
satisfies me that my former statements and
surmising* were entirely unfounded.

If, sir, you will jrive this communication
publication, yon will greatly oblige
Yours,

Henry Martin\ Supt.**

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from, pagi 771.)

Peter Hawes recalled a circumstance
which he had forgot to mention, concern-
ing a Mr. Smith who came from England,
and soon after died. The children had
no one to protect them. There was one
girl sixteen or seventeen years old, and a
wounzer sister. Witness took these girls
into his family ont of pity. Wilson Law,
then Major-General of the Nauvoo Legion,
-was familiar with the eldest daughter.
Witness cautioned the girL Wilson was
soon there again, and went out in the
evening with the girl, who, when charged
by the witness* wife, confessed that Wilson
liaw had seduced her. Witness told her
lie could not keep her. The girl wept,
made much ado, and many promises.
Witness told her, if she would do right, she
might stay ; but she did not keep her
promise. Wilson came again, and she
irent out with him. Witness then re-
quired her to leave the house.

Mayor said certain women came to
complain to his wife that they had caught
Wilson Law with the girl on the floor at
Mr. Hawes' in the night.

Councillor H. Smith proceeded to show
the falsehood of Austin Cowles, in the
Expositor, in relation to the revelation
referred to.

Mayor said he had never preached the
revelation in private ; but he had in

Sublic Had not taught it to the anointed
i the Church in private, which statement
many present confirmed ; that ou inquiring
concerning the passage in the resurrection
concerning 'they neither marry nor are
given in marriage,' &c, he received for
answer, Men in this life must marry in
wiew of eternity, otherwise they must
remain as angels, or be single in heaven,
whioh was the doctrine of the revelation
referred to ; and the Mayor spoke at con-
siderable length in explanation of this
principle, and was willing, for one, to
subscribe bis name to declare the Exposi-
tor and whole establishment a nuisance.

Two o'clock, p.m., Willard Richards,
Che clerk of tha Council, bore tejtimony

of the good character and high standing
of Mr. Smith and his family, whnsti
daughter was seduced by Wilson Law, as
stated by the last witness before the morn-
ing Council ; that Mrs. Smith died near
the mouth of the Mississippi, and the
father and eldest daughter died soon after
their arrival in this place ; and that the
seduction of such a youthful, fatherless,
and innocent creature, by such a roan in
high standing as the Major-General of the
Nauvoo Legion, was one of the darkest*
damnedest, and foulest deeds on record.

Councillor Hyrum Smith concurred in
the remarks made by the clerk concerning
the excellent character of Mr. Smith and
his family.

Mayor said the Constitution did not
authorize the press to publish libels, sad
proposed that the Council make some pro-
vision for putting down the Nauvoo Ex-
positor.

Councillor Hyrum Smith called for s>
prospectus of the Expositor.

Councillor Phelps read article 8, sect 1,
Constitution of Illinois.

Mayor called for the charter.

The clerk read the prospectus of the
Nauvoo Expositor as follows : —

4 PROSPECTUS OF THE 'NAUVOO EXPOSITOR. W

The* Nauvoo Expositor will be issued
on Friday of each week, on an imperial
sheet, with a new press, and materials of
the best quality, and rendered worthy of
the patronage of a decerning and en-
lightened public

The Expisitor will be devoted to a
general diffusion of useful knowledge, and
its columns open for the admission of all
courteous communications of a religions,
moral, social, literary, or political character,
without taking a decided stand in favour
of either of the great political parties of
the country. A part of its columns will
be devoted to a few primary obi sets,
which the publishers deem of vital im-
portance to the public welfare. Their
particular locality gives them a knowledge
of the many gross abuses exercised under

Digitized by

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

the ' pretended' authorities of the Charter
of the City of Nauvoo, by the legislative
Authorities of said city, and the insupport-
able OPPRESSIONS Of the MINlSrERIAL

powers in carrying out the unjust, illegal,
and unconstitutional ordinances of the
•ame. The publishers therefore deem it
a sacred duty they owe to their country
and their fellow-citizens to advocate,
through the columns of the Expositor,
the unconditional repeal of the Nauvoo
City Charter, to restrain and correct the
abuses of the unit power, to ward off
the iron rod which is held over the de-
voted heads of the citizens of Nauvoo and
the surrounding country, to advocate
unmitigated disobedience to political
revelations, and to censure and decry
gross moral imperfections wherever found,
either in the plebeian, patrician, orself -con-
stituted monarch, — to advocate the pure
principles of morality, the pure principles
of truth, designed hot to destroy, l>ut
strengthen the mainspring of God's moral
government, — to advocate and exercise
xne freedom of speech in Nauvoo, inde-
pendent of the ordinances abridging the
same, — to give free toleration to every
man's religious sentiments, and sustain
all in worshipping their God according
to the monitions of their consciences, as
guaranteed by the Constitution of our
country, and to oppose with uncompro-
mising hostility auy union of Church
▲nd State, or any preliminary, step
tending to the same, — to sustain all,
however humble, in their equal and con-
stitutional rights, and oppose the sacrifice
of the liberty, the property, and the
happiness of the many, to the pride and
ambition of the pew ; in a word, to give
a full, candid, and succinct statement of

JFACT8 AS THEY REALLY EXIST IN THE ClTY

op Nauvoo— /earless of whose particular
ease the facts may apply — being governed
by the laws of editorial courtesy, and the
inherent dignity which is inseparable from
honourable minds, at the same time ex-
orcising their own judgment in cases of
flagrant abuses or moral delinquencies, —
to use such terms and names as they
deem proper, when the object is of such
high importance that the end will justify
the means. In this great and indispensable
-work, we confidently look to an enlightened
public to aid us in our laudable effort.

The columns of the Expositor will be
open to the discussion of all matters of
public interest, the production of all cor-
respondents, subject to the decision of the
editor alone, who shall receive or reject
at his option. National questions will be
in place, but no preference given to either
of the political parties. The editorial
department will contain the political news

81T

of the day, proceedings of Congress;
election returns, &&, &c. Boom will be
given for articles on agriculture, the
mechanical arts, commeicial transac-
tions, &c.

The first number of the Expositor will
be issued on Friday, the 7th day of June,
1844. The publishers bind themselves
to issue the paper weekly for one year,
aud forward 52 copies to each subscriber
during the year. Orders should be for-
warded as soon as possible, that the
publishers may know what number of
copies to issue.

The publishers take pleasure in an-
nouncing to the public that they have
engaged the services of Silvester Emmons,
Esq., who will have entire charge and
supervision of the editorial department.
From an acquaintance with the dignity of
character and literary qualifications of
this gentleman, they feel assured tbat the
Nauvoo Expositor must and will sustain
a high and honourable reputation.

All letters and communications must
be addressed to 'Charles A. Foster,
Nauvoo, 111.,' postpaid, in order to insure
attention.

William Law,
Wilson Law,
Charles Ivins,
Francis M. Higbbs,
Chauncey L. Higbbb,
Robert D. Foster,
Charlbs A. Foster,
Publisherr. 1
Nauvoo, ELL , May 10th, 1844. »
Mayor read the statements of Francis
M. Higbee from the Expositor, and asked
— 'Is it not treasonable against all
chartered rights and privileges, and
against the peace and happiness of the
city?'

Councillor H. Smith was in favour of
declaring the Expositor a nuisance.

Councillor Taylor said no city on earth
would bear such slander, and he would
not bear it, and was decidedly in favour
of active measures.

Mayor made a statement of what
William Law said before the City Council
under oath, that he was a friend to the
Mayor, &c ; and asked if there were any
present who recollected his statement,
when scores responded, Yes.

Councillor Taylor continued— Wilson
Law was President of this Council during
the passage of many ordinances,' and
referred to the records. * William Law
and Emmons were members of the Council,
and Emmons has never objected to any
ordinance while in the Council, but has
been more like a cipher, and is now
become editor of a libellous paper, and is
trying to destroy our charter and ordi-

Digitized by

818

HISTOBY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

nances.' He th«m read from the Consti-
tution of the United States on the freedom
of the press, and said — * We are willing
they should publish the truth ; but it is
unlawful to publish libels. The Expositor
is a nuisance, and stinks in the nose of
every honest man. '

Mayor read from Illinois Constitution,
article 8, section 22, touching the responsi-
bility of the press for its constitutional
liberty.

Councillor Stiles said a nuisance was
anything that disturbs the peace of a com-
munity, and read Blackstone on private
wrongs, vol 2, page 4; and the whole
community has to rest under the stigma
of these falsehoods (referring to the
Expositor) ; and if we can prevent the
issuing of any more slanderous communi-
cations, he would go in for it. It is
right for tbis community to show a proper
resentment ; and he would go in for
suppressing all further publications of the
kind.

Councillor H. Smith believed the best
way was to smash the press and ' pie! the
type.

Councillor Johnson concurred with the
Councillors who had spoken.

Alderman Bennett referred to the state-
ment of the Expositor concerning the
Municipal Court m the case of Jeremiah
Smith aB a libel, and considered the paper
a public nuisance.

Councillor Warrington considered his a
peculiar situation, as he did not belong to
any church or any party. Thought it
might be considered rather harsh for the
Council to declare the paper a nuisance,
and proposed giving a few days' limitation,
and assessing a tine of $3,000 for every
libel ; and if they would not cease publish-
ing libels, to declare it a nuisance ; and
said the statutes made provisions for a
fine of $500.

Mayor replied that they threatened to
shoot him when at Carthage, and the
women and others dare not go to Carthage
to prosecute ; and read a libel from the
Expositor concerning the imprisonment
of Jeremiah Smith.

Councillor H. Smith spoke of the
Warsaw Signal, and disapprobated its
libellous course.

Mayor remarked he was sorry to have

one dissenting voice in declaring the
Expositor a nuisance.

Councillor Warrington did not mean to
be understood to go against the pro-
position ; but would not be in haste in
declaring it a nuisance.

Councillor H. Smith referred to the
mortgages and property of the proprietors
of the Expositor, and thought there would
be little chance of collecting damages for
libels.

Alderman Elias Smith considered there
was but one course to pursue ; that the
proprietors were out of the reach of the
law ; that our course was to put an end
to the thing at once. Believed, by what
he had heard, that if the City Council
did not do it, other j would.

Councillor Hunter believed it to be a>
nuisance. Referred to the opinion of
Judge Pope on Habeas Corpus, and spoke
in favour of the charter, &c Asked
Francis M. Higbee, before the jury, if he
was not the man he saw at Joseph's house
making professions of friendship. Higbee
said he was not. (Hundreds know this
statement to be false.) He also asked R.
D. Foster if he did not state before
hundreds of people that he believed Joseph
to be a Prophet. ' No,' said Foster.
They were undergo at h when they said it.
(Many hundreds of people are witness to
this perjury.)

Alderman O. Spencer accorded with,
the views expressed, that the Navvoe
Expositor is a uuisance. Did not con-
sider it wise to give them time to trumpet
a thousand lies. Their property could
not pay for it. 'If we pass only a fine or
imprisonment, have we any confidence
that they will desist ? None at all. We
have found these men covenant-breakers
with God, with their wives, &c. Have
we any hope of their doing better ? Their
characters have gone before them. Shall
they be suffered to go on, and bring a mob
upon us, and murder our women and
children, and burn our beautiful city?
No! I had rather my blood would be
spilled at once, and would like to have
the press removed as soon as the ordinance
would allow ; and wish the matter might
be put into the hands of the Mayor, and
everybody stand by him in the execution
of his duties, and hush every murmur.

To to continued.)

Whitewash that will not Rob off. — Mix up half a pailful of lime and water, ready t#
put on the wall ; then take one gill of flour and mix it with the water ; then pour oa
boiling water sufficient to thicken it j pour it while hot into the whitewash, stir all well
together, and it is ready for use. '

Digitized by

XDITOBIAL. 819

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAU.

Saturday, December 21, 1801.

DISAPPOINTED HOPES OP THE ENEMIES OF TRUTH.

Had the opponents of Joseph Smith, junior, been told, thirty-one years ago,
that the system which he was endeavouring to establish, and which they
were exerting themselves to prevent his establishing; would have grown to its
present dimensions, they would have declared it to be impossible. They
imagined that a few short years at most would only be required to fully expose
the 44 delusion " and to satisfy its advocates and converts of the folly of at-
tempting to adhere to such a system in this enlightened age. So confident
were they in this, that, had they been asked then for their opinion as to the
position it would be likely to occupy at this date, they would have unhesita-
tingly affirmed that it would be extinct, and that there would be nothing left,
excepting the record of the historian, to inform posterity that such a system was
ever taught or believed. Though not believing themselves in men's having
the gift of prophecy, and opposing the Prophet Joseph because he testified
that the attainment of such a gift was within man's reach, they nevertheless
freely predicted that the system which they vulgarly called ** Mormonism 99
would be speedily overthrown. They even felt so sure at times that their de-
sires were about to be gratified in witnessing its overthrow, that they would
predict without any reservation that if such and such events happened, it could
not possibly outlive them. But they did happen, and yet the system still
stood and continued to grow, despite all the predictions to the contrary. The
various mobbings and drivings the Prophet Joseph and the people have
had to endure, have all been events, which at the time they occurred, it was
hoped would prove effectual in arresting its progress and be the means of
uprooting it. Those who carried these measures out did so anticipating that
they would be successful in destroying the system against which they were
levelled ; and the pertinacity with which they have clung to the hope that
they might yet be successful, notwithstanding the numerous defeats and disap-
pointments they have experienced, would have been admirable, if it had
been displayed in a good cause.

It is interesting now, after the lapse of thirty-one years, to trace the successive
steps which have resulted in success and triumph upon the one side, and
defeat and disappointment upon the other. For, however much tho anticipation
may be indulged in that success may crown some future effort that may be made
against this system, it must be admitted that every past effort to accomplish this
object has been most signally defeated : the system has emerged triumphantly
from every encounter, seemingly purified and strengthened by the contest.
There has been this one peculiarity, out of many others that might be named,
connected with the system taught by Joseph Smith, — namely, a belief in a
Heaven-inspired, governing Priesthood. Every one who has truly and sincerely
received the doctrines taught by him has become bo firm a believer in the right

Digitized by

820 EDITORIAL.

and power of this Priesthood to govern, that none hare ever felt safe in taking
any step without first consulting the men who held that priesthood, to learn
whether it was right or* not ; and the history of the past thirty-one years has
proved to the satisfaction of every one who has had any experience in this matter
that whenever a step has been made by the Latter-day Saints, under the guidance
of counsel thus given, it has invariably been in the right direction. The opinion
of the world from the beginning of the work has been that nothing- but a career
of trouble and disappointment awaited all who would associate themselves with
Joseph Smith and his brethren, and be governed by the principles they taught*
But the march of events has exposed the folly of those who entertained such
views, and fully vindicated the wisdom and correctness of the course taken by
the Latter-day Saints. The Lord has shown to the world that when he calls
men and endows them with his Priesthood, and sends them forth to act in His
name in the midst of the people, he will bear them off triumphantly over every
opposing obstacle ; and those who follow the counsel which he inspires them to
jgive shall not be ashamed. This we see illustrated at the present time in the
United States, and it will receive still further illustration in this and other
countries in the course of a few years. There are hundreds of families in past
times who have bitterly mourned over what they termed the "infatuation 1 * of some of
their relatives in associating themselves with that ".deluded people" — that people
who believed that God had spoken from the heavens and revealed himself again
to man. They thought, when they did so, that they were blind to their own
interests, and were leaving peace and plenty and loving and honourable asso-
ciations, to go out and connect themselves with a people who were poor, unpopu-
lar and deceived, and who would be sure to come to some evil end, in consequence
of their disposition to ask and listen to the counsels of those who held the
Priesthood. They had not the remotest idea that their relatives, in doing so, were
taking a course to escape calamities and perils which, aftet the lapse of a few
years, would encompass themselves and prove their overthrow. Probably, when
they see the people with whom their relatives became identified enjoying peace
and the blessings of good order, and themselves involved in all the horrors of
civil war, this conviction may dawn upon tbem ; and they may then be willing to
acknowledge that those whose counsel they sought and obeyed possessed a
knowledge of the future, and a wisdom of which they and the rest of the world
"were destitute.

It is the wonderful results which have followed the practice of this prin-
ciple among the Latter-day Saints which must strike the impartial ob-
server in comparing their success and continued progress — so contrary to
common expectation — with the defeat, retrogression, and disappointment of
their opponents. While the Latter-day Saints have been led by men who
had a definite object in view, and knew the proper and necessary steps to bo
taken to accomplish that object, their opponents have been idly beating the
air, without any plan or settled purpose. They thought that the fulness of the
Gospel revealed by the Lord through his servant Joseph, which they nick*
named " Mormonism," could not stand, and that the system would speedily
crumble to pieces beneath their puerile attacks, because they wished it to be
so, and the wish was father to the thought. But with Joseph and his
brethren associated with him, the ense was different. He knew beforehand.
;by the revelations and visions of die Almighty, when there was scarcely a
soul who believed in his testimony, what the purposes of tho Lord were

Digitized by

TOITOMAL.

891

respecting the work which Ho was about to commence. He was not in
the least in the dark upon that point, for he knew that every nation, kindred,
tongue, and people should contribute its quota to swell the thousands who
should receive his testimony, and be united with him in his faith and prac-
tice. "When he and all his brethren in the Church could meet with ease in one
small room, they could talk as largely and as confidently about the work that
would be accomplished in a few years upon the earth as the Saints can now
about what has transpired. The visibn of their minds was opened to see the
work of God rolling forth and increasing on every hand, being carried from
land to land and from nation to nation ; and thousands of the ransomed out of
every people upon the face of the earth collected together under the banner of
the Gospel, which was then being raised. What were the base, grovelling thoughts
of their opponents to such certain and glorious views as these P

The Saints believed and had confidence in the Priesthood, and they sought
their counsel. The Priesthood have known what was right and have ever coun-
selled in one direction, and aimed to accomplish the one object. Joseph's death
did not change this. Those whom he left behind had beheld the plan. It was
no weakened impression of what was to be done which they received, but the
vision of their mind was touched, like his, by the inspiration of Heaven, and they
saw what was to be done, and the steps to be taken to accomplish it. With their
eyes on the goal, they pressed continually forward. Persecution might rage ;
individuals, families, coma unities, States, and United States might with fierce
and unholy violence assail and scatter them ; but they were not to be beaten
back. Fire could not consume water could not quench, the most cruel oppres-
sion could not crush ou their *xed determination to accomplish that purpose
which the Lord had reve v ed a *d commanded.

If we should be asked, -hen " To vrnat are the success, growth, and prosperity
of the Latter-day Saints attr'-utableP" we should answer, To the living Priest-
hood of the Almighty, whom ne bis placed in his Church, and through whom he
imparts his counsel to all who *iil receive and obey it. And to the absence of
this power, and men's unbeliel n the possibility of its existence, is to be ascribed
the confusion, disappointment and complete defeat of the wicked, thus far, who
have sought to overthrow the work of God.

News from Home. — We learn from the Deseret News that on the 12 th Septem-
ber last, Captains Milo \ndrus and John Murdock arrived in G. S. L. City, with
their respective companies ; on the 13th, Captains Joseph Horn and Homer Dun-
can, with theirs ; and on Sunday, the 15th, Captain Eldredge, with his.

We also learn from the same source 'that President Young, with a small party,
left G. S. L. City on the 6th Sept. for a trip to the Northern Settlements. On
the way, the President inspected the new Weber bridge, with which he was
highly satisfied. On the 7th meetings were held in the Ogden Tabernacle, (a
building, 50 by 100 feet,) which was densely crowded. On the 8th the President
and company met with the Saints at Willard in their school-house. On the 9th,
they arrived at and held a meeting in Wellsville; and on the 10th two meetings
<were convened in the Bowery at Logan. The News says that " choirs from the
Tarious settlements were in attendance, and vied laudably with each other in
singing alternately.'* The company visited Brigham City, and held a meeting in
the Court-house there on the 11th, and returned home to G. 8. L. City
on the 12th.

Digitized by Google

822

CORRESPONDENCE.

We have also received a communication from President Yonng, dated Nov. 12th,
In which he says—

"The weather continues very favourable to out-dobr operations, which are being
vigorously prosecuted. The roof timbers are being placed upon our massive and com-
modious Theatre, and we hope to have it sufficiently completed for comfortable use during
a portion of the coming winter. On the 17ih ult. the telegraphic wire reached this
city from the East, and early on the 18th the operator first communicated to Mr Wade,
of Ohio, the President of the Pacific Overland Telegraph Company, my telegram con-
gratulating him upon the successful completion, to this point, of a work so beneficial, if
rightly conducted. On the 24th., I enjoyed the privilege of congratulating, by a first
message, Mr. Carpentier, the California President of the Company, over the wire
stretched from here to California, which completed telegraphic connection between the-
Atlantic and Pacific. Since the last-named date we have received almost daily telegrams
from the East, and at times had States news of even dates, which we may hereafter expect
pretty regularly, whenever the wire is not interrupted, or when it is stretched from Omaha,.
N. T., to Davenport, Iowa."

News from Switzerland. — By letter from Elder John L. Smith, dated Basel,
Dec. 7th, we learn that matters are moving along as well as can be expected in
that Mission, considering the untoward circumstances which the brethren have
to battle with from time to time. Elder Smith says — " We have some carious
people here. Nevertheless we keep bearing testimony wherever we can get an op-
portunity ; and, without doubt, some will take root. Several persons are investi-
gating—persons of high standing among the Baptists in the vicinity of Stuttgart.
We are br.ptizing nearly every week in some part of the Mission, and in some
parts some are being dropped; for I have come to the determination not to carry
dead branches, only so long as there is a hope of remodelling them into some-
thing useful."

News prom Holland. — By letter from Elders Van der Woude and SchetUer,
we learn that they are still diligently striving to plant the standard of the Gos-
pel in that country, but that they meet with many and almost insuperable diffi-
culties in the way. They are doing the best they can, considering the circum-
stances under which they are placed. Elder Schettler says—'* The national
character of the Dutch is to stick to the traditions of their fathers more than
other nations, and this spirit is manifested in all their customs and fashions.*'

Movements op the Presidency. — From a letter received from President
Lyman, we learn that he has for some time been engaged in preaching to and
visiting among the Saints in the neighbourhood of London, with whom, he in-
forms us, " a good and hopeful spirit prevails, and a strong and increasing desire
to gather home to Zion with those already there, to share the labours and bles-
sings connected with the progressive development of the work of the last days*
Additions by baptism are of almost daily occurrence, and the spirit of inquiry
is rife among the people."

President Rich informs us that he has lately visited and ministered to the
Saints in the Nottingham and Derby Conferences. He says — " I find the Saints
generally feeling well and striving to do all they can to emigrate. The Elders
have baptized about twenty since I came, and more have given in their names.*
At date of last letter, he was about to proceed to Leicester.

Digitized by

C0BBE8P0NBKNGB. $23

CORRESPONDENCE.

ENGLAND.

LONDON DISTRICT.

London, Dec. 5 th, 1861
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — The number oF Saints
expecting to emigrate the coining season
from thin District, as near as we can
ascertain, is 1 90, 37 of whom can fit them-
selves out for the whole journey; the
remainder can only fit out 'to Florence.
The desire to emigrate is intense. The
signs of the times aro preaching the
necessity of the Saints gathering out
of Babylon with arguments that cannot
be misunderstood. All that can pos-
sibly raise the . means in this District
are , going the coining season. The
Saints here are waked up to an under-
standing of the Latter-day Work that
they never had before. Many of them
say that, had they known before what
they now know, they might have been
in Zion years ago. It was told them
then, but they did not understand it :
they had to learn it by experience.
This is a proof to them that their past
experience, although it may have been
at times rather unpleasant, has been a
great blessing to them. That which is
now laid before their minds, added to
the knowledge gained by p;\st experience,
onalles them to understand the truth
more correctly. It also verifies to them
the principle upon which the truth is to
be learned — that it is by tho practical
application alone that we can know the
truth. We say to the stran^nrs that if
they will obey the first principles of the
Gospel, they s.iall know of the doctrines,
Aj., quoting the sayings of Jesus. My
experience has proven to ine that a
person in the Church cannot know the
truth without obeying it, any more than
a person can out of the Church. We
cm never know its virtue, power, and
blessings without a practical applica-
tion.

I am happy to inform you that the
cause of Zion is steadily progressing
in. the District. The Saints, as a
whole, are doing the best they can for
themselves and the cause of truth.
They seem to have implicit confidence
in the Elders who are labouring in their
midst. Our counsel is sought and well

received by the Saints. Their con-
fidence in tho work is growing stronger
daily. There are a few that are rather
slack in their duties, and some two or
three have had to be cut off. One man,
a foreigner, baptized in London last
summer, was cut off a few days ago.
He is a man of great pretensions, and
went so far as to declare himself to be
the Christ, and as such offered himself
to the Church. But he came too soon,
and consequently was rejected.

We are continually adding to our
numbers by baptism, anl many
strangers are investigating the princi-
ples.

The Elders labouring in the District
are all in good health and fine spirits.
Union and harmony characterize all our
movements.

Ever praying for your success and
prosperity in your labours in the cause
of Zion, I remain your bruther in the
covenant of peace,

John Browx.

southampton district.
Bridport, Dorset, Deo. 9, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — Since yonr visit to
Southampton, I have visited the whole
of this District, and most of the
Branches twice. I find a good spirit
among the^m, and I am happy to say the
Saints are greatly improving, and are
united and willing to do all they can to
build up the kingdom of God. They
receive us kindly and always bid us
welcome to their homes ; and when a
call is made for anything, they respond
to it, and endeavour to do the best they
can under existing circumstances to
sustain the kingdom of God and de-
liver themselves from these lands. Not
a stone will be left unturned by many
for thU object the comin * spring. How
much will be accomplished I am not
able to say at present. If all be well,
we shall send as many as last spring.

The Elders engaged in the ministry
are on hand, and are one with me for
th) interests of Zion. Our meetings in
miny places are well attended by Saints
and strangers.
The Saints in this

C0BHB3P0NDXNCB.

in other places, feel the effects of the
American war already. In some parte*
of the District they suffer very much
for want of work, particularly in the
Dorset Conference.

We held a Conference here yesterday,
when the Branches were represented in
good standing;. Although the weather
-was yery unfavourable, we had a goodly
number assembled together, and every-
thing went off like clockwork, to the
satisfaction of all present.

We held a Conference in NeWbury
(Beading Conference,) on the 1 7th ult.
I must say the Beading Conference is
improving of late. We have had to
disorganize some of the Branches, and
attach them to others.

The prospects are good in many
places for an ingathering during the.
present winter. We have some that
follow the example of one of the an-
cients, coming by night, and not by day,
to hear the Elders.

Ever praying for your success in the
cau>e of truth, believe me to remain
your brother and fellow-labourer in the
kingdom of patience,

W. Br AM ALL.

SCOTLAND.
Glasgow, Dec. 10, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Sir, — I could not get at the
number wishing to emigrate this
coming spring until the present, as the
Saints are slow to make up their minds,
for the want of means. I have Seventy
who have the means to go as far as
Florence, but I am persuaded there will
be a great many more go by the coming
emigration. Everything is moving on
harmoniously herein Scotland, although
a great many of the Saints are out of
employment. The brethren who emi-
grated last season all write good news
from Utah. This keeps the Saints
looking Zionward. The good spirit is
growing all the time in the Mission.
Fears are entertained that the emigra-
tion will be stopped by the difficulties
pending between Great Britain and
America ; but I tell the Saints to take
no notice of the matter, but prepare for
emigration. All is right until we are
told it is wrong by you.

The brethren join in love to you and
all inquiring friends.

David M, Stuart.

AMERICA.
New York, Nov. 21, 1861.
President George Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I have just received
by the hands of our delegate from Utah
to Congress, the Hon. J. M. Bernhisel,
the following from our dearly-beloved
President Brigham Young : —

" You are at liberty to return home when
you choose, or extend your labours to Europe,
and report yourself to the Presidency in
Liverpool."

The latter course I have adopted. I
felt, before I received the letter, that
President Young would write me to go
to Europe. Had be whispered in my
ear, it could not have been more plain
than the presentiment ; and when I re-
ceived the letter, I could not feel to
take any other course than that I
already have adopted. The rest you
will know when I arrive.

I have appointments at Providence,
R. I., and Boston, Mass. ; also a Con-
ference Council at Philadelphia ; and I
will attend to these and try to start for
Liverpool tha first week in December.

We are baptizing a few throughout
the Mission. The Elders are alive to
their duties — the Saints, rejoicing in the
truth and* fulfilment of prophecy.

The news from our " mountain home"
is very cheering. While confusion, war of
words, and the sword, bloodshed, death,
destruction, and distress of nations are
stalking through the land, " the poor,
illiterate, know-nothing Mormons" are
rejoicing in the blessings of pence and
prosperity. These are brought to them
by being strictly obedient to the Priest-
hood legally ordained of God to guide
his people. A Daniel, with that autho-
rity, could tell a Nebuchadnezzar what
God determined to do in the last days ;
a Brigham can tell the rulers of every
nation, tongue, and people under the
whole heavens, how they may preserve
their kingdoms, empires, and republics,
and have peace flow unto them con-
tinually ; and the Elders of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, over
whom be presides, can tell them the same.

I pray God our Father to bless his
Saints, bless the honest, and preserve the
innocent. My love to brothers Lyman
and Rich and all who know me. The
blessings of the Priesthood be upon you
all, iB the desire of yours truly in the
new and everlasting covenant,

John D. T. McAllister.

8UMMABY. VARIETIES.

82a

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

Italy.— On the 8th ult., an eruption of
Vesuvius took place near Torre-del-Greco.
This eruption was of a more threatening
character than any that have taken place for
a long period. The inhabitants took to
flight. Shocks of earthquake continue to
be felt, and chasms have opened in the
earth, forming perfect gulfs. The houses
are falling in Torre del Greco, and all com-
munication between the places in the
vicinity of the mountains is interrupted.

Sicily. — The Presse of this evening
publishes a despatch, dated Palermo 6th
instant, announcing the discovery of a
Bourbon conspiracy in that city. The
principal conspirators (among whom are a
number of priests,) had been arrested.

Poland.— Be alobrzeski, the substitute of
the Archbishop of Warsaw, has been con-
demned to ten years' transportation to
Siberia. Seven Jewish and eight Christian
students of the medical faculty ot the
University of Warsaw have been condemned
to serve as common soldiers in the Russian
corps d* armee in Orenberg. Great ex-
citement prevails at Warsaw.

China. — According to the latest advices
from Cochin China, hostilities were likely
to be resumed at Saigon. Shanghai is in a
state of alarm on account of the proximity
of the rebels. Canton was evacuated on the
21st instant. English and French troops
resisted the Chinese to hold Che-foo against
the rebels, who ultimately retreated. The
reports from the foreign legations at Pekin
are satisfactory.

America. — Two others stars (Missouri
and Kpntucky) have now withdrawn froia
the Federal constellation, thus bringing up
the number of seceded States to 13, Two
only of the Southern States now remain in
the " Union." The most important news
of its kind lately received is that announc-
ing the utter route of the Frderal forces in
Missouri by the combined armies of*
Generals Price and M'Culloch, and the re-
treat of the vanquished Federals upon St.
Louis. Not a word of this important de-
feat came through Northern channels, the
Government having evidently suppressed it.
The Confederate Congress* has passed a
resolution to remove the seat of government
from Richmond to Nashville. The Federals *
have taken the island of Tybee, at the
mouth of the Savannah River. The Phila-
delphia Inquirer publishes a letter from
Fortress Monroe giving further reports
about the bombardment of Pensacola. It
is reported that Pensacola was entirely
evacuated, and the navy yard destroyed.
Port Poyal advices report that Tybee Island
was found deserted when the Federals took
possession. The fortifications on Ship
island are completed and garrisoned by
150 Federal troops." The British brig
Cornucopia was captured off Mobile, whilst
endeavouring to run the blockade. The
New Yvrk Times' Quebec correspondent
states that a council of war was held on the
24th, at which it was agreed to fortify tne
Canadian frontier.

VARIETIES.

What a Volcano can Do. — "Cotopaxi, in 1738, thr^ew its fiery rockets 3,000 feet above
its crater, while in 1744 the blazing mass, struggling for an outlet, roared so that its
awful voice was heard at a distance of more than 600 miles. In 1 797 the crater of Tungurage,
one of the great peaks of the Andes, flung out torrents of mud, which dammed up
rivers, opened new lakes,- and in valleys of a thousand feet wide made deposits of six hun-
dred feet deep. The stream from Vesuvius which in 1737 passed through Torre del
Greco, contained 33,600,000 cubic feet of solid matter ; and in 1794, when Torre del
Greco was destroyed a second time, the mass of lava amounted to 45,000,000 cubic feet.
In 1679 Etna poured forth a flood which covered 84 square miles of surface, and measured
nearly 100,000,000 cubic feet. On this. occasion the sand and scoriae formed the Monte
Rossi, near Nicolosi, a cone two miles in circumference and 4,000 feet high. The stream
thrown out by Etna in 1810 was in motion, at the rate of a yard per day, for nine months
after the eruption ; and it is on record that the lava of the same mountain, aftei a terrible
eruption, was not thoroughly cooled and consolidated ten years after the 'event. In the
eruption of Vesuvius, A.D. 79, the scoriae and ashes vomited forth far exceeded the entire
bulk of the mountain ; while in 1660 Etna d^orged more than twenty times its own mass.
Vesuvius has thrown its ashes as far as Constantinople, Syria, and Egypt: it hurled
stones eight pounds in. weight to Pompeii, a distance of six miles, while similar masses
"were tossed up 2,000 feet above its summit. Cotopaxi has prtjected a block of 109 cubie
^ards in volume a distance of nine miles, and Sumbawa, in 1815. during the most terrible
eruption on record, sent its ashes as far as Java, a distance of 300 miles of surface ; and
out of a population of 12,000 souls, only 20 escaped."— Btcreative Scienc(^QQQ

POETRY.

A Joker Caught. — Dr. M , an army Burgeon during the war, was very fond of a

joke ( if not perpetrated at his own expense), and had, moreover, a great contempt for citizen
officers, who were more renowned for their courage than their scholarship. One day, at
mess, after the decanter had performed sundry perambulations of the table, Captain

S , a brave and accomplished officer, and a great wag, remarked to the doctor, who

had been somewhat severe in his remarks on the literary deficiencies of some of the new

officers, •* Dr. M , are you acquainted *ith Captain G ? M "Yes, I know him

well," replied the doctor ; he's one of the new set. But what of him ?*• Nothing in par-
ticular," replied Captain S . I have just received a letter from him, and I will wager

you a dozen of old port that you cannot, guess in six guesses how he spells cat. " Done,"
said the doctor ; 44 it's a wager." 44 Well, commence vrue-sing," said S. 44 K, a, double
t" 44 No." 44 K,a.t,e." No." 44 Catte." " No." 44 Catt." 44 No." 44 Kat."
14 No, that's not the way; try again : it'syour last gues*." Caght." 44 No," said S. t
44 you're wrong again ; and you've lost your wager." 44 Well." said the doctor, with much
petulance of manner, 44 how,*ihen,doeshe spell it P" 44 Why. he spells it, C. A, T." replied
S, with the utmost gravity. Amid the roar of the mess, and almost choking with rage,

the doctor sprang to his feet, exclaiming, 44 Captain S- , I am too old a man to be

trifled with in this manner."

, Ruling out the Docks. — In a village of Western New York, the blacks, in emulation
of their white brethren, formed a debating society, for the purpose of improving their
minds by the discussion of instructive and entertaining topics. The declarations ot the
society were presided over by a venera 1 le darkey, who performed his duties with the
utmost dignity peculiar to his colour. The subject for discussion, on the occasion of wh : ch
we write, was — 4 * Which am de mudder of de chicken — de hen wot lays da eerg, or de
hen wot hatches de chicken P" The question was warmly debated, and many reasons pro
and con were argued and combatted by the excited disputants. Those in favour of the
latter proposition were evidently in the majority, and the president made no attempt to
conceal that his sympathies were with the predom'iiant party. At 1 mgth an intelligent
d irkey rose from "the minority side, and begged leave to make a proposition to this effect : —
* 4 S'pose," said he, 4, dat you set one dozen duck c^gs under a hen. and deyhat^h;
which am de mudiler — de duck or de hert-P " This was a poser, was well put, and rather
nonplussed the other side, and even stagejered the president, who plainly saw the force of
the argument, but had committed himself too far to yield without a struggle ; so, after
cogitating and scratching his wool for a few moments, a bright idea struck him. Rising
from his chair, in all the pride of conscious superiority, he announced — * 4 Ducks am not
before de house ; chickens am de question : derefore I rule de ducks out ! " And do it he
•did, to the complete overthrow of his opponents.

POETRY.

REMEMBRANCE.

Remembrance strikes the chords of time, Then sweeping o'er the strinis of time,

' And distant music's heard to ring, Remembrance b ick the past will br.ug,

Bnnring to memory everything: Remin line us of everything:

Th ; 1 .UK-forgotten wont, the broken vow Each (iod-like act, rath heaven-bom desire

Is just as fre*h as if 'twere uttered now. Shall bid our meaner deeds with gr ice retire.

PnAJe-. JohsBatf.

CONTENTS.

Missouri as it Was, and as it Is su Corre*pon1ence.— England : Loiters from Elders

The ' Amends Honourable" 814 J. Brown and W. Bramall.— Scotland : LetUr

Historv of Joseph smith 816 from Elder D. M. Stuart— America: Loiter

Editorial.— Disappointed Hopes of the Enemies from Elder John D. T. M'AIlister..... 851

of Truth.— News from Home — News from Summary- of News and Passing Events : 8SS

Switzerland— News from Holland.— Move- Varieties'.. 835

meutsofthe Presidency „ 819 Poetry.—*' Remembrance" ........ Sit

LIVERPOOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON, «, ISLINGTON
«a»»..„ LONDON :

¥OR SALE AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' BOOK DKi>OT, 30, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS S
ISLINGTON; AND ALL BOOKSELLERS. Digitized by GOO

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS'

MILLENNIAL STAR.

A noite$kaU oome oven to the «ub o/ <Jto earth ; for the Lord hath a controversy udth thonatiomt he-nM I
pUadrwith aUfUeh; he wiUgive them that are wicked to the tword, saUhthe Lord."— JiatMiAfl.

No. 52, Vol. XXIII.

Saturday, Dec. 28, 1861.

Price One Fenny.

REFLECTIONS ON THE PAST.

The year 1861, pregnant with bo
many important; events, is now well
nigh spent, and will soon be added to
the list of by -gone years ; and we think
that, ere it fully closes upon us, it would
be well if every reader of the Star, and
indeed every mertiber of the Church of
the Saints in these lands, would
earnes^y* ask himself or herself these

§u«stions t : — What have I done during
fie year 8^1 towards helping on
the work of God P How many souls
have I been the honoured instrument of
bringing into the fold of Christ — the
Church P How many, through my
efforts, or through the influence of my
conduct, have been constrained to think
and speak favourably of the religion
whose cause I advocate ? Totalling all
up that t have done in various ways
towards furthering the' interests of the
Church, and reflecting the light of its
glorious principles upon; thtt dark world
around kie,. what, do^ftritf amount to P
, J&T* J ; my time

^^TO w would allow ?

Have i coTveiaerea tne kingdom of God
and its interests ' of paramount im ♦

Sortance P or have I made ft of seoon-
ary or eyeh more distant consequence P
What the better am I for my religion ?
Am I a better or a wofrSb man or
Woman than I was before 1 embraced
£Mormonisro," as it is called by the
world P Have I been improving as the

year's months and days have rolled on ?
or have I been standing still, while the
work and its workers have been moving
on before me P Have I been progres-
sing in knowledge and wisdom, virtue
and spiritual strength, as day after day
of varied opportunities has dawned and
waned over my head P or have I been
retrograding — advancing ' backwards
towards a state of apostacy and spirit-
ual cfariness ?

There is really no standing still in
spiritual life. We must be moving on,
either backwards or forwards, heaven-*
wards or hell wards, in righteousness
or unrighteousness ; so that if after
having embraced the Gospel and cove-
nanted to serve God by keeping his
commandments, we do not progress in
knowledge and righteousness as we
ripen in experience, we must necessarily
be losing ground by travelling in the
wrong direction.

When the light of Divine truth has
once found its way into the mind, it
will either save or condemn its pos-
sessor, according to his application of
it. Like a keen-edged blade in the'
hands of a workman, it may be used to
advantage, or, by being misapplied,
become the instrument df untold mis-,
chief, and finally, perhaps, ruin. The
keener the edge, the greater its capa-
bility of working good on the one hand,
or evil on the other.

Digitized by

828

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

" Mormonism," as our reVgion is
termed by those who know least of it,
is just such an instrument. In the
possession of a wise and righteous man,
its doctrines and principles can be
rendered effective of great and incalcula-
ble good ; while, in the hands of an un-
righteous, apostate, merely nominal

professor of the truth, it will prove de-
structive not only to himself, but per-
chance to others who take refuge under
his example and influence. Like a
two-edged sword, it will cut two
ways ; and woe, woe be to him who
wields it unwisely or unrighteously !

HISTORY OP JOSEPH SMITH.

(Continued from page 818.)

Councillor Levi Richards said he
had felt deeply on this subject, and
concurred fully in the view General
Smith had expressed of it this day ;
thought it unnecessary to repeat what
the Council perfectly understood ; con-
sidered private interest as nothing in
comparison with the public good. Every
time a line was formed in Far West, he
was there— for what? To defend it
against just such scoundrels and in-
fluence as the Nauvoo Expositor and its
supporters were directly calculated to
bring against us again. Considered
the doings of the Council this day of
immense moment, not to this city alone,
but to the whole world ; would go in to
put a stop to the thing at once. Let it
be thrown out of this city, and the
responsibility of countenancing such a
press be taken off our shoulders and
fall on the State, if corrppt enough to
sustain it.

Councillor Phineas Richards said that
he had not forgotten the transaction at
Haun's Mill, and that he recollected
that h' s son George Spencer then lay
in the well referred to on the day pre-
vious, without a winding-sheet, shroud,
or coffin. He said he could not sit
8 till when he saw the same spirit raging
in this place. He considered the pub
lication of the Expositor as much mur-
derous at heart as David was before the
death of Uriah ; was lor making a short
work of it; was prepared to take his
stand by the Mayor, and whatever he
proposes ; would stand by him to the
last. The quicker it is stopped the
better.

Councillor Phelps had investigated
the Constitution, Charter, and Taws.
The power to declare that office a nuis-
ance is granted to us in the Springfield
Charter, and a resolution declaring it a
nuisance is all that is required.

John Birney sworn. Said Francis

M. Higbee and Wm. Law declared they
had commenced their operations, and
would carry them out, law or no law.

Stephen Markham sworn. Said that
Francis M. Higbee said the interest of
this city is done the moment a hand is
laid on their press.

Councillor Phelps continued, and re-
ferred to Wilson Law in destroying the
character of a child — an orphan child,
who had the charge of another child.

"Warren Smith sworn. Said F. M.
Higbee came to him, and proposed to
have him go in as a partner in making
bogus n oney. Higbee said he would
not work for a living; that witness
might go in with him, if he would ad-
vance fifty dollars; and showed him
(witness) a half-dollar which he said
was made in his own dies.

Councillor Phelps continued and said
he felt deeper this day than ever he felt
before, and wanted to know, by "Yes,"
if there was any person who wanted to
avenge the blood of that innocent
female who had been seduced by the
then Major-General of the Nauvoo
Legion, Wilson Law; when "Yes!**
resounded from every quarter of the
house. He then referred to the tea
plot at Boston, and asked if anybody's
rights were taken away with that tran-
saction ; and are we offering, or have
we offered to take away the rights of
any one these two days P (" No !" re-
sounded from every quarter.) He then
referred also to Law's grinding the poor
during the scarcity of grain, while tho
poor had nothing but themselves to
grind; and spoke at great length in
support of active measures to put down
iniquity, and suppress the spirit of
mobocracy.

Alderman Harris spoke from the
chair, and expressed his feelings that
the press ought to be demolished.
The following resolution was. then*

EDITORIAL.

829

read and passed unanimously, with the
exception of Councillor Warrington : —
" Besolved, by the City Council of the
city of Nauvoo, that the printing-office from
whence issues the Nauvoo Expositor is a
public nuisance, and also all of said Nauvoo
Expositors which may be or exist in said
establishment; and the Mayor is instructed

to cause said printing establishment and
papers to be removed without delay, in such
manner as he shall direct.
Passed June 10th, 1844.

Georgk W. Harris,
President pro Um.
W. Richards, Recorder.

To be continued.)

THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS' MILLENNIAL STAR.

Saturday, December 28, 1861.

RETROSPECT OF THE TEAR

With this number the twenty -third Volume of the Star is completed. As we
announce the close of the year's labour, the thoughts suggest themselves and
queries arise, Has the Star afforded such light to our readers that they have been
enabled to see their pathway more clearly than they would have done had tltcy
been destitute of it P Have they been instructed, strengthened, comforted, and in-
cited to greater diligence by the teachings and counsels it has contained P * Have
the Saints, through its aid, progressed in the knowledge of God and obtained
broader and more comprehensive views of their holy religion P Have the Elders
derived a higher appreciation of their duties and obligations from the contents of
its columns and judicious and profitable enlightenment and aid in counselling the
Saints and directing the affairs of their ministry P Has the world received any
additional evidences and testimonies respecting tho great work which Qod has
established through his servant Joseph Smith, and for which that servant laid
down his life P If these questions can be answered in the affirmative, then
indeed has this twenty-third Volume of the Millennial Star not been published
in vain, and our exertions have not been fruitless. Another book has
been written and sent forth on its mission to the world. To the
lovers of truth it has and will, doubtless, convey happiness and joy; but
to those who wilfully and persistently reject the message of love and mercy which
it bears it will be another witness against them to increase their condemnation
and future misery.

In entering upon and endeavouring to discharge the responsibilities of our
present position, we have been sensibly conscious of our weakness, and have 1
regretted that we have not been able to do more ; yet we have had joy and
satisfaction in our labours from their commencement at the beginning of the
year until the present time. We sincerely trust that everything we have said
and done during this period has been acceptable to our Qod, satisfactory to our
fellow-servants, and beneficial to our brethren and sisters. The knowledge of
having had (conjointly with our brethren) the faith and prayers of the brethren in
Zion and the Elders and Saints among whom our lot has been cast in these lands*
has been consoling and encouraging. From these sources there is assistance and
power to be obtained, which we have realized, o

839 EDITORIAL*

In taking a retrospect of the year, we are impressed, in looking at the nations
of Babylon, with the numerous disasters they have experienced, attended witfc
great loss of life, and'the gloomy and discouraging future there is before them
at the termination of this year. War, in its most horrid form and with all
its attendant wretchedness and misery, is raging in the midst of the American
Union. That once happy nation is rent asunder, and has become a prey to civil
discord. This ^fratricidal war, so repulsive and terrible in every feature, over*
shadows every other throughout the earth. The war between the Turks and the
Montenegrins, and that which is of almost periodical occurrence between the
Bu8sians and the Circassians and other mountaineers, with the fighting in Italy
between Francis II. and his followers and Victor Emmanuel, and the.
war in New Zealand between the English and the Maoris, with the ven-
geance inflicted by British men-of-war upon the coast of Africa, under the name
of justice, all sink into insignificance when compared with the civil war raging
in the United States. Nations stand aghast at the sight of so young and pro-
mising and great a nation committing the crime of self-destruction. Besides
these actual wars, there have been disturbances in Bussia among the serfs and
the students, in Poland against the Russian Government, and in Hungary against
the Austrian Government. There are the difficnlties also in Mexico, to settle
which and to obtain the rights of their citizens, (which they say have been
trampled upon, ^England, France, and Spain have sent out a joint expedition.

Of shipwrecks there have been a great number during the year. In the
months of February and November the coasts of Great Britain were visited with
storms of great violence, during which many souls perished and hundreds of ves-
sels were lost and stranded ; and in the storm of February numerous buildings
received severe damage. Several ships of war and ocean steamers have also
been lost. On board of one of the former, a Russian ship, the Swcllana, lost near
Japan, there were 800 souls perished ; and of the latter no less than seventeen
vessels have been lost in one trade — the Baltic, some of them foundering at see.
and not a soul escaping to tell the sad tale.

There have been floods in Holland covering vast quantities of cultivated land,
washing away houses and every improvement, an<f resulting in great loss of life
to man and beast.

Of earthquakes there has been one particularly noteworthy — that of Mendoxa,
a city in La Plata, near the foot of the Andes, and about 150 miles east of
Valparaiso. The city was overwhelmed, and between seven and eight thousand
souls perished by the catastrophe. There has also been a seaquake — the sea
heaving itself beyond its bounds — on the island of Simo, near Sumatra, by which
a large number of houses were destroyed and nearly a thousand lives lost.

There Jiave been eruptions from Jebel Dubbeh, on the coast of Abyssinia, and
from Vesuvius. The stream of lava from the latter was three -fourths of a mile in
width, and twenty feet deep, and had partly destroyed the to wa of Torre- del-
Greco at last accounts. fc

Railway accidents during the year in Great Britain have 1oeen unuaally
frequent, and the loss of life has been fearful. Fires have also been numerous,
and in some instances very extensive. One which occurred in the city of London
early in. the summer is estimated to have consumed from £1,500,000 to £2,500,000
sterling. There is said to have been no such fire there since the great fire of
1666. Immense quantities of flour, rice, sugar, coffee, pepper, tallow, ceUonv

EDITORIAL.

831

hemp, and oil were consumed by the devouring element. There have been
exceedingly destructive fires also at Trautenau, Bohemia ; at Glarus, Switzerland;
and at Antwerp, Belgium ; the two first places being almost totally destroyed.

In India there has been great destruction and loss of life. Storms, pestilence,
and famine have performed their terrible missions in that unhappy land.
Peshawur, Afghanistan, was visited by a violent storm and made aheap of ruins ;
and Benares, Hindostan, suffered dreadfully from the destructive effects of a
similar visitation. In Gandahar from six to seven hundred died daily from
cholera, and several British regiments were more than decimated. Throughout
the greater part of India large numbers have died during the year for the want
of food, as many as four or five hundred dying daily in some places, and women
felling their own children for the merest trifle to buy food to save themselves
from perishing,

Among crowned heads and famous men, Death has been busy during the year.
His victims among rulers have been a King of Prussia, a King of Portugal, a
Sultan of Turkey, an Emperor of China, and a Queen of Madagascar. Among
statesmen, the name of Oavour stands prominently forward. In him, Italy lost
a greater than a king. America has lost Douglas and a host of lesser lights ;
Bussia, Prince Gortschakoff, whose name is intimately connected with her war in
the Crimea; and England, her Lord Chancellor, the Duchess of Kent, Sir James
Graham, and other notabilities ; and lastly her recent calamitousloss in the death
of the illustrious Prince Consort.

The year closes gloomily -upon the nations of Babylon. The horizon is begirt
with louring and threatening storm-clouds. Rulers sit uneasily on their thrones.
There is scarcely a nation whose peace is not threatened. Wars and rumours of
war fill the earth, and men s hearts fail them in looking forward to the events
which appear to be near at hand. Russia is threatened with revolution, Austria
with insurrection, Denmark with war by Prussia, and England by America.
Turkey is already at war. Italy is unsettled, distracted by civil strife and bri-
gandage, and surrounded by dangers. France is involved in financial difficulties,
from which it will require all the dexterous management and contrivance of her
Emperor and his most able ministers to extricato her. Rome is menaced, and the
Pope looks around him in dismay at the flood of revolution which surges up to the
very gates of the " eternal city " itself. Almost stripped of his dominions, he yet
clings to his temporal power with tenacity, and, alternately pleading and threaten-
ing, he seeks to bring to his aid the Catholic Powors ot Europe.

But in turning one's attention from the nations of Babylon to the kingdom of
God, the contrast in their peace, happiness, and prosperity is very striking. It is
apparent that the kingdom has taken a wonderful stride forward. The year has
been fruitful in blessings for the Saints of Qoi. Thousands have gathered from
Babylon to Zion. Peace — that blessing so rare, and which is becoming more and
more rare among men — has been richly enjoyed. The Church has increased in
numbers, and hundreds have been caused to rejoice in the truth, having been
brought from ignorance and darkness, to knowledge and light. For all that the
Lord has done for Zion through the past year, we cannot be too thankful.

News from Scanmnavia. — Elder. Van Cott, in a letter written under date of
Dec. 14, informs us that the spirit to emigrate exceeds anything he ever wit-
nessed before in that country, and that every effort is being made to accomplish
tint object.

Digitized by Google

832

COBBESPONDENCB.

Wanted.— Wanted at this Office Numbers 18, 21, 24, 31, 32, 36, 39, 40, 41, 42
of the Star. If any of the Book Agents should have any of these Numbers on
hand, they would oblige by returning them to 42, Islington, Liverpool, without
delay, as they are particularly required, in order to complete Volumes. Credit
will be given for them on receipt.

CORRESPONDENCE.

LINCOLNSHIRE CONFERENCE.

Grantham, Dec. 16, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — We are still in-
creasing our numbers by baptism. I
am very happy to inform you that, not-
withstanding the opposition we have
had to contend with in respect to getting
a new meeting-room, we have at last
succeeded. We met in it yesterday for
the first time, and had the largest con-
gregation the Saints in Grantham have
witnessed for years. We also had the
pleasure, yesterday, of confirming four
new members, and two that had re-
newed their covenants. It fills my
heart with gratitude to participate in
the progress of the work of God in this
place, and I do trust that his good
Spirit will continue to increase upon
us, that we may be fully qualified for
the further development of his divine
purposes.

With continued desires and prayers
for your welfare, I am your affectionate
brother,

John Lindsay.

MANCHESTER CONFERENCE.

Droylsden, Dec. 16, 1861.
President Cannon.

Dear Brother, — I am happy to inform

Jou that we are moving a- head in the
[anchester Branch. Our meetings
aro well attended by strangers, the

?)irit of union is increasing among the
riesthood, and the members are be-
ginning to wake up to their own in-
terests and the interest of the kingdom
of God, which of course are identical.
The result is that baptisms are freqnent.
We recently confirmed six new mem-
bers at one time. Many old ones are
returning also. The area over which
our Branch operations extend is very
great, and includes not only a densely -
populated city of some 550,000 people,
out many suburbs fast rising into towns,
among which there is a deep, anxious,
and earnest spirit of inquiry concerning

many of the doctrines of our Church,
and the views of our people with regard
to the future, which may, by an en-
lightened and energetic Priesthood, at
this critical period, be turned to good
account. In some parts, therefore, we
have as it were broken loose from our
old moorings and commenced a new
plan of operations ; and, thus inaugu-
rated, we have so far successfully
carried on a winter's campaign, which,
has already been productive of much
good. It has brought a great number
of strangers to become better ac-
quainted with our principles, and in-
duced many to avail themselves of our
week-night meetings. Hence our
prospects in the future are remarkably
good.

Praying that God may bless and
crown your efforts with success, I am
your brother in the bonds of truth,
John Schofield.

SCANDINAVIAN MISSION.

Hjorring, Dec. 9, 1861.
President Q. Q. Cannon.

Dear Brother, — IJhe work of God is
rolling onward rapidly, as usual, in this
remote corner of the Lord's vineyard.
Our meetings are excessively crowded
wherever we go. I am almost astounded
at times to witness the increase of
faith and good works and firmness we
find in the Branches. Some of the old
Branches, whose vigour and strength
we fancied were exhausted, or partly
so, are now increasing in magnitude and
strength, showing a determination not
to be of the worn-out class. Many who
formerly knew comparatively nothing
about our principles are coming to our
meetings, sometimes cursing such a
delusion as '* Mor monism ; " but, on
hearing and seeing the talk and pro-
ceedings among the supposed deluded
people, they retire with astonishment,
and declare that they never heretofore
have met with a better people or heard
such sound and reasonable doctrine as

SUMMARY.

833

The more thinking minds among them
do not Satisfy themselves without
further investigation and trial. Here
are many who have watched the progress
of this work for years, and have things
somewhat prepared to launch from
these shores, but perhaps not before tho
arrows and stones of a Roman army are
felt inside the walls of Jerusalem.

On mv return from Sweden I bap-
tized a family of Swedish origin on the
Btiore where I landed. I also baptized
a man whose wife joined the Church

years back. They required some in-
formation concerning their emigration,
as they are ready to go with the first
company.

We have baptized 77 souls in this
Conference, and 30 in Aalborg, during
last quarter. More than 200 Saints in
Aalborg will emigrate. I do not know
how many will go from here, but I ex-
pect a similar number.

Tour fellow-labourer in Christ,

A. Christensen.

SUMMARY OP NEWS AND PASSING EVENTS.

England.— For the second time in one
brief year, death has entered the Royal
family. His Royal Highness the Prince
Consort died at Windsor Castle on the 14th
instant, at ten minutes to eleven o'clock, in
the 43rd year of his age. Thus, in the prime
of life, surrounded by every earthly bles-
sing, in the midst of public usefulness, in
the full enjoyment of domestic bliss, and
rich in the nation's respect and confidence,
the husband of our beloved Queen, at the
time above mentioned, in the presence of
her Majesty and the Royal children, tran-
quilly breathed his last. He sank under
fever of a typhoid character.

Ireland.— A shock of earthquake has
been recently felt at Tullsmore.

Austria. — Advices from Vienna of the
10th inst. state that, during the Emperor's
stay at Venice, he ordered all the political
prisoners to be set at liberty, with one or
two exceptions.

Italy. — A gang of about 40 malefactors,
some of them in the disguise of carabineers
or gendarmes, and of guards of public secu-
rity, or policemen, effected their entrance
into the railway staticn, and, tying up the
company's servants with ropes, curried
away, overpowering all resistance, a sum of
100,000f. which lay there by chance, and
of wh ch, in all probability, they had ob-
tained clandestine knowledge. The build-
ing opposite to the House of Legislation,
the Carignano Palace, was broken into by
burglars, who forced open the strong-box
and took possession of the sums it contained.
This same ill-starred night the sentry on
duty at the gate of the Arsenal, near the
Piazza d'Armi, was fired upon at 1 1 o'clock
by some unknown and invisible person with
a pistol, which shattered the poor soldier's
arm. Since the atrocious murder of the
two police inspectors, Fumagalli and Gras-
se)li r at Bologna, that city, in the midst of
all its terror and distraction, has been left
almost without actual government of any

kind. The National Guard, owing to disa-
greement between its superior officers and
men, is dissolved. Another conspiracy has
been discovered at Naples. Several domi-
ciliary visits have taken place, and 13 per-
sons have been arrested.

Turkey.— Hostilities have entirely ceased
in the Herzegovina. The Turkish troops
who were posted at Piva have been distri-
buted among the towns of Gatzkodejubinie-
Stolaz and Mostar. The irregular troops
have been disbanded.

India. — An income-tax riot has taken
place in Assam, in which Lieut. Singer, As
sistant-Commissioner, was beaten to death.

America. — Mr. Bernhisel, Delegate from
Utah, presented the Constitution which was
formed by the Convention of Delegates as-
sembled at Great Salt Lake City, Utah, in
March last, accompanied by a memorial
asking Congress to admit that Territory into
the Union as a State on an equal footing
with the original States. Jennison's
men are in Jackson county, Missouri, de-
vastating the country : and various parties
of armed rebels have gone into that section
with the avowed purpose of driving them
out. Washington despatches state that
President Lincoln avows his purpose of
preserving a cautious and prudent policy
with regard to foreign relations, and that
there needs be no fear of war with Great
Britain,' unless the latter Government
seeks a pretext for hostilities. No anxiety
is felt by the Administration on this sub-
ject. Mr. Breckenridge has been expelled
from the Senate. A committee had been
appointed to consider the expediency of
abolishing slavery in the District ot Colum-
bia. Government had ordered the release
of a fugitive slave who was confined at
Washington. A Dutch fleet of eleven
vessels was off Laguayra on November 17th
to demand satisfaction from the Venezuela '
Government for having trampled on the
Dutch flag.

Digitized by LjOOQ IC

834

VABIETUCSL — POETRY.

VARIETIES.

How to Bestore Writing. — Writing which has become illegible by age may be
restored by moistening it with an infusion of galls.

Horrors of Civil War in Missouri. — * 'Doubtless no pen will ever describe these
horrors in their full extent and terrible blackness. Thoughtful men prophesied, before the
war set in, awful scenes, without probably comprehending a tithe of the distress, woe,
ind horrors which were in store for our scourged people. If one will open the pages of
Edmund Burke, and scan the picture he has painted of the war in the Carnatie, he will
have a faint idea of the waste and ruin which have desolated so large a part of our
afflicted State. Head anywhere the history of the civil broils which have in different ages
and among different people, set neighbour against neigbour, and given a field of employ-
ment for the robbers and ravagers of property, and the assassins of reputation and lifiij-
which have covered almost every square league of territory with hostile camps— which
have spilt the blood of citizens in battle or in murder — which have carried terror over the
whole districts and into the innumerable homes — which have set brother against brother,
father against son, in mortal strife, and a fai$t idea may be gathered of the dreadful con-
dition to which Missouri is this day reduced. Her own children imbrue their hands in
each other's blood, and fire each other's dwellings-; while enemies from without, who come
in panting to £lut a revenge which is insatiable, rejoicingly assist in this devilish work,
and to add to its horrors and abominations. To-day a Union leader, as was Cook in the
western part of the State recently, will be seized and Im life taken tin the spot ; to-morrow
a judge of one of the courts, who sympathized with the South, will be murdered, while a
close prisoner in the hands of the bead of an armed force, who has sworn to protect him,
• but cannot make good his pledge, and the case seems almost hopeless. There is no balm
in Gilead, and no physician there. Missouri has within her borders no men who can, as
Missourians, stand up, and, facing those dreadful exigencies, teU her people how they could
be met, and what is the remedy. There is mutual hate and distrust; No man believes
andther honest in any course of pacification that either may recommend. Men are prone
to think and believe the worfct of each other. It is a time when every private enemy can \
n ^gratify bis revenges, for there is nothing that malice can invent which will not be credited T
»By one man of any other main who even so much as differs in opinion from him. At such
* r a time; this distressed and harassed people ought to welcome, even from without, any
administration which promises to govern with a wisdom adequate to the emergency. We
fe«ve4 confidence in the power now pending here, and we cherish hopes that* through the
justice and discrimination of its exercise, some relief may be promised for our unhappy
State." — New York Journal of Commerce.

POETRY.

^ A SONG-.

Lot us sing the songs of Zfon, though far away wo If we ask in faith, believing Cod will open op our,

roam ; way

The glorious hope rely on to soon he gathered home To gather home, no more to roam, bat serre *hifti
To that land of truth add beauty, for theiday day by day.

His* SUuy&f, Christ will appear, majestic U ££* Wb ° n ™*

from the sky. For in healuig balm around tho Holy Spirit flows y

Let us practise .every principle of righteousness The Comforter is sent again, with joy wo rtow

reveal xl, proclaim,

For we know a strict obedience will choicest bless- The .Saints to guide, though foes deride, till Je

ings yield, , . come* to reign.

Paddihgton. Rllki Hajip*

CONTENTS.

Reflections on the Part Si7 J. Lindsay and John Schoficld— 832

Htotory of Joseph smith g*& Summary of News and Passing £ vents : 831

BdtyonaL — A Retrospect of the Year 829 Varieties. 8a*

Gorresponde ace —England : Letters from Elders Poetry. — A Song.. • 88*

JLIVEJ1POOL:

EDITED, PRINTED, AND PUBLISHED BY GEORGE Q. CANNON. 4*. ISLINGTON.
LONDON:

FOR SALB AT THE LATTER-DAY SAINTS* BOOK DEPOT, 20, FLORENCE STREET, CROSS STRJ3BT,
ISLINGTON ; AND A LL BOOKSELLERS.

Digitized by

Google

Digitized by

Google

Digitized by

Google

Digitized by

Google

Digitized by

GoogI

HBj

torn*

811

SEES

HBw&b

. • • •

TOW

flfeS

MBS

«b898B8

MS*

Bra

BHHV

His
Jill

Bar

fSaax

jATV, -I, vc.

raw

Internet Archive Audio

Featured

Top

Images

Featured

Top

Software

Featured

Top

Texts

Featured

Top

Video

Featured

Top

Mobile Apps

Browser Extensions

Archive-It Subscription

Save Page Now

Full text of "Millennial Star Vol 23"

See other formats